India has amongst the most diverse flora and fauna in the world. With over 1,200 species of avifauna, it is no surprise that birdwatching is a popular hobby. In fact, in 2020, the first ever State of Indian Birds Report, was published based on birdwatching observations from 15,000 participants! This is a fine example of how computer software can bolster citizen science projects and wildlife conservation. Here we discuss the eight most stunning birdwatching locations in India. Furthermore, under the guidance of Salim Ali, Indira Gandhi was an avid birdwatcher. This is believed to encourage her to establish the various conservation reforms during her tenure as Prime Minister.
Sattal, Uttarakhand
Sattal, which translated to Seven Lakes is a town located near Bhimtal in the Nainital District of Uttarakhand. At an altitude of nearly 1,400 meters, the oak and pine forests of Sattal and the neighboring Pangot area have over 500 species of birds. Notable species include the Brown Wood Owl, Himalayan Woodpecker, Mountain Owlet, Crested Kinfisher, Slaty Headed Parakeets, Red-billed Blue Magpie, Hill Patridge and Eurasian Griffon and Bearded Vulture. Kalij, Cheer and Kolkass Pheasants always attract scores of photographers.
Barring the monsoon months of July to September, the region will always leave birders in awe throughout the year. The nearest airport is about 60km away in Pantnagar. Kathgodam and Ramnagar have the closest railway station. New Delhi and Dehradhun are both about six hours away by road. “The Incredible Birding Camp” in Sattal is highly recommended for a wonderful birding experience.
Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary, Rajasthan
Currently known as Keoladeo Ghana National Park, Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary is amongst the most famous birding hotspots in the world. This UNESCO World Heritage Site attracts over 100,000 tourists annually, out of which about 50% are foreigners.
The sanctuary came into prominence for being a refuge to thousands of migratory birds. Over 350 species of birds have been recorded here. During the winter season, the banks of the wetlands are engulfed in a cacophony of various species of nesting herons, storks and egrets. Migratory ducks are also plentiful, with some notable species including the Comb Duck, Gadwall, Pochards and Teals. Notable raptors include: the Imperial Eagle, Greater Spoted Eagle, Marsh Harrier, Dusky Eagle Owl. Also, Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary’s Spotted Owlets and Scops Owls receive much fanfare due to their great visibility.
The paddyfields surrounding the sanctuary provide a safe refuge for a healthy population of Sarus Crane, the world’s largest flying bird. In fact, this species is India’s only resident breeding species of Crane. Once upon a time, the park would host a population of the critically endangered Siberian Crane. However, due to excessive hunting in Afghanistan, there are no records of the species in India since 2001.
The park also provides wonderful sightings of numerous mammal species. Chital and Nilgai are sighted with ease. Sambar, though not as common, have a decent population in the park. Jackal and the Small Indian Mongoose are the most easily spotted carnivores, particularly in the buffer area. The rare Striped Hyena occasionally bless tourists with a sighting. Meanwhile, the Indian Crested Porcupine are regular sights, especially at dusk, near the forest guest house. Other species of mammals which have been sighted at the park include Smooth Coated Otters, Hog Deer, Leopard Cat, Pangolin and Common Palm Civets.
The herpetofauna of the park is also a major attraction for tourists. The Indian Rock Pythons provide wonderful sightings, particularly during the summer months. Russell’s Viper, Common Krait, Cobras, Monitor Lizards and seven species of turtle have been recorded in the park.
While the sanctuary is a haven for wildlife lovers, many will be astounded that the 29km2 wetland reserve is entirely man-made and man-regulated. It was developed to protect Bharatpur village from flooding. The park was also utilized as waterfowl hunting grounds by royalty before becoming a conservation reserve. Unfortunately, in recent times, the park has suffered from acute water shortage, which has destroyed the aquatic ecosystem. This led to a massive reduction in waterfowl populations. To counter this, floodwater from the Yamuna is often diverted into the reserve. While the birdlife has revived in the park, challenges still prevail
The only accommodation within the buffer of the park is the government run Bharatpur Ashoka Forest Lodge. However, various accommodation options are present in Bharatpur town. The park is open from sunrise to sunset and easily accessible from both Agra and Jaipur. In fact, the park is in close proximity to the famous Fatehpur Sikri, making it an attractive tourist destination.
Singalila National Park, Bengal
Singalila National Park is amongst the most renowned trekking routes. A panoramic view of 4 of the world’s 5 highest peaks remains the park’s most prized possession. These peaks include Mount Everest, Kanchendzonga, Lhotse & Makalu. The alpine and broadleaf forests of the park also makes it a hotspot of wildlife.
With over 300 species of Himalayan avifauna, the sanctuary is also a goldmine for birdwatchers. Satyr Tragopan, Blood Pheasants, Himalayan Monals, Fire-tailed Myzornis, Parrotbills and the Darjeeling Woodpecker never fail to hypnotise tourists.
With a population of about 42 individuals, the park forms one of the last remaining strongholds for the elusive Red Panda. In fact, Singalila has witnessed extensive conservation efforts under Project Red Panda. Tourists also might be blessed with sightings of other rare Himalayan mammals, such as the Asiatic Black Bear, Serow and Takin.
For birding, March to May is the most attractive season. Located along the India Nepal border, the park is about 100 kilometres from Bagdogra Airport. The nearest railway station is about 50km away in the city of Darjeeling. Haber’s Nest is a popular homestay for birders.
Thattekkad Bird Sanctuary, Kerala
The famous ornithologist Salim Ali described Thattekkad Bird Sanctuary, in the Iddukki District of Kerala, as “the richest bird habitat on peninsular India.” The first bird sanctuary of Kerala is home to some of the country’s most exotic avifauna, including the Ceylon Frogmouth, Black Baza and Malabar Trogon. Other than these star attractions, over 300 species of birds are found in the sanctuary, including Mountain Hawk Eagles, Crimson-backed Sunbird, Drongo Cuckoo, Grey-fronted Green Pigeon, Fulvettas and Needletails. The sanctuary also has a very high density of moths and butterflies. In fact, there is a small butterfly park and medicinal plant garden. 28 species of mammals and seven species of reptile can be found in the mark. The elusive Slender Loris is regularly spotted at the onset of dusk.
Thattekad quite literally translates to “flat forest” which aptly describes the evergreen lowland forest which comprises the majority of its habitat. The proximity of the sanctuary to the Periyar River and numerous hill stations including Munnar and Ooty, makes the sanctuary a wonderful habitat for wildlife.
The sanctuary is easily accessible. The nearest airport is under 50km from the sanctuary in the city of Kochin. The nearest railway is 50km away in the town of Aluva. It is also well connected by road to Coimbatore and Bangalore.
The best time to visit the sanctuary is between October and March. The park remains open between 7am and 6pm, with an entrance fee of 50 rupees per adult. There are numerous homestays around the park and many native guides. For those who wish to explore the park on their own, the renowned Salim Ali Trail proves to be highly productive
Desert National Park, Rajasthan
Situated on the outskirts of the historic town of Jaislmer, Desert National Park is a birdwatching paradise during the winter months. The park is most renowned for its relatively large population of the critically endangered Great Indian Bustard. Two other highly endangered species, the MacQueen’s Bustard and Demoiselle Cranes can be found here. Other grassland species such as larks, sandgrouse, shrikes, partridges and munias are common. Like most sanctuaries in the region, Desert National Park is also a hotspot for migratory raptors such as Laggar Falcons, Long-legged Buzzard, Short-Toed, Tawny and Steppe Eagles. The park is a critical habitat for the vultures. No wonder much of the reintroduction works occurs in this region.
The park is also an abode to a significant mammalian diversity. Indian Wolves, Desert Cats, Caracals, Bengal and Desert Foxes, Indian Gazelle and Hedgehogs, amongst others are found here. Meanwhile, reptiles, such as Russell’s Viper, Common Krait and Spiny-tailed Lizard, are frequently sighted as well. DNP is also a potential site for India’s Cheetah Reintroduction Plan. It is hoped that this project provides a lifeline to India’s grasslands .
The most productive period to visit the park is during the migratory season in the month of November to December. Musa Khan is the park’s most famous birding guide. He also will aid in accommodation. The closest airport is about 300km away in Jodphur but its proximity to Jaislmer makes is easily accessible by both rail and bus
Unfortunately the fragile Thar Ecosystem is under imminent threat. Over 20% of the national park is covered by sand dunes which suffer from the overgrazing of livestock to the development of solar parks and windmills. Adventure sports, such as Off Roading, also contribute significantly to habitat erosion.
Ladakh
India’s newest Union Territory never fails to mesmerize tourists. From its snow capped peaks to its desert valleys, the region has some of the most diverse and fragile ecosystems. Despite its barren outlook, the region hosts some of the world’s most exotic wildlife. Birdwatching in the region is becoming more common.
Birding trips of at least ten days are recommended to truly explore the vast region. Ladakh boasts of numerous rarities, including Great-Crested Grebe, Black-Necked Crane, Chukar Partridge, Eurasian Eagle Owl, Little Owlet and Ibisbill. Raptors are aplenty including the Golden Eagle, Upland Buzzard, Bearded Vulture and Lesser Crestel. The variety of larks and finches found in the region is also unmatchable.
Mammalian sightings are inevitable while birding in Ladakh. Tibetan Wildass, Himalayan Marmot, Wooly Hare and Red Foxes are fairly common. Few species of pika are also easily observable but are not as widespread. Ungulates, such as Bharal and Argali, are often spotted on cliffs. Most mammal sightings, however, are best during the winter months, when they descend to lower altitudes. Few predators, such as the Himalayan wolf and Pallas Cat, can be spotted during the summer. The more elusive, Tibetan Sand Fox, Snow Leopard and Eurasian Lynx need favourable luck even during the winter. Brown Bears are rare in the region, and are found more towards Kargil.
The summer months are the best time to visit Ladakh. Though wildlife sightings are more frequent in the winter, the harsh winter is unbearable, and roads are exposed to severe landslides. Sightings are best in Hanle, Tso Kar, Shey Marshes, Pangong Tso and Hemis National Park. It is recommended to visit Ladakh through specialized birding tour groups. Incredible Birding, which is based in Sattal, organizes wonderful tours around Ladakh during the summer. The only airport of the UT is in Leh. Alternatively, Srinagar airport is another option, for those who wish to experience the Western Himalayas further.
Irresponsible tourism in recent years has heavily polluted the fragile grassland ecosystem of Ladakh. With the dire state of grasslands in the country, it is essential tourists do not litter here!
Chilika Lake, Odisha
The second largest lagoon in the world witnesses India’s largest migratory bird congregation. During the dry season between December and June, when the strong tides recede, the lake is dotted with an abundance of islands. These provide wonderful habitats for migratory birds who can feed on healthy populations of crabs, mackerel and prawn. It is no wonder tha ths 1,000 square kilometre brackish estuary attracts over a million migrants from nearly 200 species annually. Lesser Flamingo, Goliath Herons, Eurasian Oystercatchers and Western Reef Egret are some of the rarities of the region. An uncontestable diversity of waders, gulls, terns and raptors can be spotted on the various islands. The lake also has five species of kingfisher. Only Bhitarkanika National Park, another amazing birding hotspot, in the same state has more (eight).
Chilika lake is one of the two remaining abodes for the Irrawaddy Dolphin. The species is considered “Endangered” on the IUCN Red List for Threatened Species. They generate significant revenue for locals through eco-tourism. Furthermore, Bottlenose Dolphin have been recorded to migrate from the Bay of Bengal into the Lagoon. However, permanent populations have not been established.
The nearest airport to Chilika Lake is in Bhubaneswar. Chennai and Kolkata are well connected to the lake through railways and National Highways 18. Boat rides along the lake are provided, both by private vendors and the state Revenue Department. The best time to visit is in December, when the migratory season is at its peak. Odisha Tourism Development Corporation Ltd. (OTDC) have numerous guest houses surrounding the lake.
Manas National Park, Assam
No wildlife list is complete without a mention of the wildlife of Assam. The state is a geographical confluence of the Brahmaputra floodplains, Eastern Himalayas and South East Asia. It is by far the most biodiverse state in India, if not the world. While tourists flock to Kaziranga to catch a glimpse of the Greater One Horned Rhino, Manas National Park is quietly growing in stature. The latter is contiguous with the Royal Manas National Park of Bhutan.
Until the early 21st Century, conflict was prevalent in the park. However, following a peace truce between the Indian Government and the Bodoland Community in around 2003, the park began to flourish. Numerous rhino reintroduction efforts have been highly successful. Now the population has swelled to 40 individuals in just over a decade. Endemic species in the park also include the Hispid Hare, Golden Langur, Assam Roofed Turtle and Pygmy Hog. Water buffalo, Hog Deer, Indian Gaur Elephants, tigers, clouded leopard, black bear, golden cat and marbled cats.
In terms of birding, the best season is between March and June. This is after the burning of the elephant grass in the lowland areas which contribute significantly to visibility. This is the breeding season for numerous species as well, including the Great Hornbill and the Bengal Florican. In fact, the park has the highest population of the latter species. In total, over 450 species of birds are found in the region. Other endangered species include the Greater Adjutant Stork, Pallas Fish Eagle, Collared Falconet, Broadbills and Sultan Tit.
The park is about a 5 hour drive from Guwahati. Being less touristy than Kaziranga, resorts are limited. Iora Lodge is a wonderful place to stay there.
Special Mentions
This was a list of 8 of the best places for birdwatching across India. However, the country has innumerable birding paradises. Other places of similar stature include Andaman Islands, Eaglesnest (Arunachal), Tal Chappar( Rajasthan), Kutch ( Gujarat), Sikkhim, Dandeli (Karnataka), Bhigwan (Maharasthra) and Chopta(Utthrakhand) and Kaziranga (Assam).
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