In Rajasthan, India, Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary, or Keoladeo National Park, is verily a magical place. The sanctuary is globally known for its birds and lovely wetlands. It covers 29 square kilometers and has more than 370 species of birds. Many birds travel thousands of miles from places like Siberia, Europe, and Central Asia to visit during winter.
History of Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary
Long ago, Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary was a royal hunting ground; here, the kings hunted birds for sport. Later, the land was declared a protected bird sanctuary in 1956. In 1982, the area was declared a national park, and in 1985, it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The name “Keoladeo” is derived from a small temple situated within the park, dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Birds of Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary
Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary is a wild place for bird lovers. In the cold months, the birds fly from cold places, coming here to enjoy warm weather. You can spot some of the most famous birds, such as:
- Siberian Cranes (very rare and special)
- Painted Storks
- Spoonbills
- Bar-headed Geese
- Teal
- Indian Darters
- White Ibises
- Grey Herons
Nature and Plants Inside Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary
The habitat has wetlands along with grasslands and small forests inside the Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary, making it suitable for birds and beasts. Water is drawn through the Gambhir and Banganga rivers, keeping the park refreshed and alive.
Some of the common plants are:
- Babool (Acacia)
- Kadamba trees
- Jamun trees
- Ber trees
- Grasses like Kans grass and Vetiver
Animals in Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary
Birds are not the only stars of this park. Many other wild animals live in the sanctuary. These include:
- Nilgai (blue bull)
- Sambar deer
- Spotted deer
- Wild boars
- Jackals
- Indian Pythons
Best Time to Visit Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary
If you want to see the greatest number of birds, you should visit between October and March. These are the migratory months, when birds come from distant lands to reveal their beauties. The early morning or evening is when the birds are most active. These are also the best times for a photo shoot or just ending a day listening to their songs. In the rainy season, the park becomes green and fresh, and one can fill their eyes with natural beauty along with plants and water birds.
How to Reach Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary Easily
Getting to Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary is easy:
- By Road: It’s about 200 km from Delhi and 55 km from Agra. Highways make the trip smooth.
- By Train: Bharatpur Junction connects to major Indian cities.
- By Air: The nearest airports are in Agra (56 km) and Delhi (220 km).
Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary Timings and Entry Fees
Here are the details you need before visiting:
- Timings:
- Summer: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Winter: 6:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Fees:
- Indian visitors: ₹75
- Foreign visitors: ₹500
- Rickshaw ride: ₹150–₹250/hour
- Guide: ₹250–₹500
- Camera fee: ₹600
Places to Stay Near Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary
Around the vicinity of the national parks, plenty of hotels, lodges, and guesthouses exist. Some of them are offering luxury resorts, while some are working with budgets. There is also a circuit house for government officials inside or near the sanctuary. Local restaurants offer great food with Rajasthani and North Indian cuisines, so you won’t ever have the problem of being hungry.
Saving the Birds and Their Home
Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary faces problems like:
- Lack of water
- Pollution
- Fewer migratory birds
- Human encroachment
Yes, so much good work has been done. The forest department is working in collaboration with the global wildlife groups, and they are involved in very much actions. They bring water from adjacent rivers, plant more trees, and protect birds and animals. Each year, a Bird Fair has been organized wherein the public is educated about the park, and the opportunity is raised for raising funds for the park.
Helpful Tips for Visitors
Here are some simple tips you should follow for a better visit:
- Bring binoculars and a camera.
- Dress in subdued colors.
- Bring some hush, so you don’t frighten away birds.
- If opportunity arises, do hire a local guide.
- It’s another great idea to start early – more birding and a cool breeze
Nearby Places to Explore After Visiting the Sanctuary
Interesting places to visit near the park include:
- Lohagarh Fort- A stronghold with historical significance
- Deeg Palace- Exquisite with shimmering water fountains and stunning gardens
- Fatehpur Sikri- A grandiose ancient city that was built by a Mughal emperor
- Taj Mahal, Agra- One of the seven wonders of the world, just an hour’s joyride away
Why Everyone Should Visit Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary
More than a sanctuary for birds, Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary is a serene realm of nature. Here, children and students, and lovers of nature find something special to cherish. One comes to learn about birds, to let oneself be calmed among the trees, and to commune with wildlife. Each visit fills one’s heart with joy, knowledge, and respect toward nature.
Conclusion
Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary is a true wonder of nature. It hosts birds from around the whole wide world, with wild animals and all sorts of beautiful plants, in one serene abode. It is an interesting avenue to catch how nature works in tandem. It caters to all, whether birdwatching, photography, or just soaking up a cool breeze. So pack up and wade into the Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary, where nature sings throughout the day and night.
