Birdwatching in India: The best spots for birdwatchers
Birdwatching in India: The best spots for birdwatchers: India, with its breathtaking biodiversity and varied ecosystems, is a veritable paradise for birdwatchers. With over 1,300 species of birds, many endemic and migratory, the country offers unique birdwatching opportunities. Whether you’re an avid birdwatcher or simply curious about the country’s rich bird life, India offers a multitude of sanctuaries and national parks to explore.
In this article, we’ll guide you through the best birdwatching spots in India, focusing on renowned sanctuaries such as Bharatpur and Ranganathittu. Get your binoculars ready and follow the guide!
1. Keoladeo Ghana National Park (Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary) – Rajasthan
Located in Rajasthan, Keoladeo Ghana National Park, or Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary, is one of India’s most iconic birdwatching sites. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the park is famous for its winter populations of the endangered Siberian crane. Once a royal hunting reserve, the park has been transformed into a wildlife sanctuary, serving as a crucial stopover point for thousands of migratory birds from as far afield as Europe and Central Asia.
What to see: With around 370 recorded species, the park is home to birds such as the purple heron, pelican, Indian cormorant and, of course, the Siberian crane. The months of November to March, which coincide with migration season, are ideal for visits.
Practical tips: For the best experience, rent a bike or rickshaw with a local guide. These guides, often former poachers, have in-depth knowledge of the birds and their habits. The park is easily accessible from Delhi, making it an ideal getaway for birdwatchers.
2. Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary – Karnataka
Ranganathittu, located near Mysore in the state of Karnataka, is a relatively small sanctuary but incredibly rich in avian diversity. Its islets on the Cauvery River attract thousands of waterfowl, particularly during the breeding season. Despite its modest size of 0.67 km², the sanctuary is home to over 170 bird species, some of which are rare and endangered.
What to see: Species that can be seen here include black ibis, herons, painted storks, spotted-billed pelicans and kingfishers. The pelicans, which flock here to breed, are a sight not to be missed.
Practical tips: A boat trip on the Cauvery River offers a unique opportunity to observe the birds up close. Early morning or late afternoon excursions are particularly recommended, when the birds are most active.
3. Sundarbans National Park – West Bengal
The Sundarbans, a labyrinth of mangroves and waterways, is famous for its Bengal tigers, but it’s also a mecca for birdwatchers. The park is home to an impressive array of birdlife, including raptors and waterfowl that thrive in this unique environment. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a natural sanctuary where encounters with rare species are almost guaranteed.
What to see: Pallas’s eagle, osprey, ring-necked kingfisher and the majestic grey-headed eagle. Marshes and flooded forests provide the perfect backdrop for herons, ibises and other water birds.
Practical tips: The Sundarbans are best explored by boat. It’s essential to go with an experienced guide, as the waters can be difficult to navigate and the park is dense. The best time to visit is between November and February, when the weather is pleasant and the birds are plentiful.
4. Jim Corbett National Park – Uttarakhand
Jim Corbett National Park, India’s oldest national park, is a jewel for birdwatchers. Although mainly famous for its tigers, Corbett is also home to an impressive diversity of birds. With over 600 recorded bird species, the park offers a mix of forest and grassland habitats suitable for a wide variety of birds.
What to see: Visitors can expect to see majestic raptors such as the Pallas fish eagle, the golden vulture, and colorful birds such as the bicorn hornbill and the alexander parrot. Forests echo with the songs of bearded owls and cuckoos, while rivers and lakes attract cormorants and kingfishers.
Practical tips: Jeep safaris are the most common way to explore Corbett. For birdwatchers, we recommend booking specialized safaris or guided walks in less-visited areas to maximize sightings.
5. Chilika Lake – Odisha
Lake Chilika, Asia’s largest saltwater lagoon, is a veritable sanctuary for waterfowl. Classified as a Ramsar site for its ecological importance, Chilika attracts millions of migratory birds every year, transforming the landscape into a colorful and vibrant spectacle.
What to see: Flamingos, whistling ducks, terns and gulls are among the most common species. The lake is also home to rarer species such as the Himalayan swift and the Oriental plover. The calm waters of the lake and its islands create the perfect setting for birdwatchers.
Practical tips: Boat trips are essential for exploring Chilika. The winter months, from November to February, are the best time to visit, as this is migration season. As well as birds, don’t miss the chance to see the Irrawaddy dolphins that populate the lake.
6. Thattekad Bird Sanctuary – Kerala
The Thattekad Bird Sanctuary, known as the Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, is a hidden gem in Kerala. Located in the Western Ghats, this sanctuary offers an ideal habitat for many bird species, some of which are endemic to this region. It is one of the best birdwatching spots in southern India, despite its small size of 25 km².
What to see: Visitors can observe rare species such as the yellow-billed woodpecker, Nilgiri’s imperial pigeon and Jerdon’s sparrow. The sanctuary is also home to the superb Malabar trogon, a popular species with photographers and enthusiasts.
Practical tips: Hiring a local guide is highly recommended, as rare and endemic species are often difficult to spot without expert help. The best times to visit are early morning or late afternoon, when the birds are most active.
Conclusion
Birdwatching in India is much more than just a leisure activity: it’s an immersion in breathtaking natural landscapes and a celebration of the diversity of life. From the marshes of Bharatpur to the lagoons of Chilika, each sanctuary offers a unique experience. Whether you’re fascinated by waterfowl, majestic birds of prey or colorful passerines, India is a must-see destination for birdwatchers. So get your binoculars ready, arm yourself with patience, and set off to discover these natural gems, where the avian fauna promises unforgettable encounters.
