“The presence of a single bird can change everything for one who appreciates them.”
– Julie Zickefoose
Rajasthan, one of the most important tourist destinations in India known for its desserts, culture, royalness and most importantly the historical value. Among all these there is a scenic national wetlands park, home to a variety of birds including geese, waders & raptors situated at Bharatpur. Amongst one of the finest bird sanctuaries in India, Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary also called as Keoladeo Ghana National Park is a sanctuary that offers a spectacular forest trekking experience also. Keoladeo, the name gets from an old Hindu temple, which is dedicated to Lord Shiva and remains at the focal point of the national park. “Ghana” implies thick, alluding to the thick woods, which used to cover the region.
More than 300 species of birds are found in this park of 29-sq-kms of which 11-sq-kms are marshes and the rest scrubland, wetland and grassland. Nesting indigenous water birds and migratory water birds specifically the Siberian Crane, many species of Sambar, Chital, Nilgai and Boar also can be sighted at the sanctuary.
There are three options to cultivate the place, viz. Battery-operated Cart Rides, Rickshaw Safari or Cycle ride. To get the best views of birds it is recommendedto penetrate deep into the jungles and walk along with cameras is the best option. It will be approximately 6-7 Km stretch from the main gate till the main water body. However, if anyone like me want to get into the several trails, it shall be a little more. All available mode of the sanctuary safari can be booked at the main entrance of Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary.
Best Time to Visit
Though the Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary is open around the year, but still, the best time to visit Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary is from August to November to witness the resident birds and from October to February to get the sight of migratory birds.
Entrance Fees
Over and beyond the safari charges and vehicle charges, tourists have to pay an entrance fee to get past the gate.
For Indians – INR 75
For foreigners – INR 500
For Indians – INR 75
For foreigners – INR 500
Cost of DSLR – INR 250
Cost of video camera entry – INR 600
