Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary a World Heritage near Taj Mahal

Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary, officially known as Keoladeo National Park, is a paradise for nature lovers. When you enter this UNESCO world heritage site in Rajasthan Bharatpur district, it is written on the notice board ‘Pl maintain silence, you may see what you have never seen before.’Our group first saw the deer standing on two legs and plucking the fruit of 15 feet tall tree. All persons on the group maintain complete silence. Suddenly we saw a fawn hardly 10 meters away, the fawn looked at us. Guide raised the hand to maintain the silence and no activity. The fawn was moving slowly; even a five year kid could catch him. Accidently some other tourist took out the camera, mother deer came between us. After 30 seconds mother deer and the fawn moved to a dense forest.

Tales

1. We heard from our grandparents: First day everybody will catch me, second day hunter dog can catch me and third no one manage to catch me, then I am a kid of deer. (पहले दिन मुझे हर कोई पकड़े, दूसरे दिन शिकारी कुत्ता पकड़ा और तीसरे दिन मुझे कोई न पकड़ पाए, तब मैं हिरण का बच्चा). When the mother deer and the fawn disappear from our eyes. The guide looked at the other group, why did you make the noise. Did you not read the notice board? All persons harshly looked at the person. Later on, guide said that it was one day deer kid. He explained about the skin, walking pattern etc. of a one day old fawn
2. This former duck-hunting reserve of the Maharajas (kings) and the British officers (colonial period) is one of the major wintering areas for large numbers of aquatic birds from the south India, the Asia and Russia (Siberia). Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary preserves the natural beauty.

Brief synthesis

Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary, , approximately 65 Kms far away from the Seven Wonders of the World the Taj Mahal, is an important wintering ground of Pala arctic migratory waterfowl and is renowned for its large congregation of non-migratory resident breeding birds. Here you can find 375 bird species. The 2,873 ha area is lush green in winter and rainy seasons.

Journey to UNESCO World Heritage Site

This ‘Bird Paradise’ was developed in a natural depression wetland that was managed as a duck shooting reserve at the end of the 19th century. While hunting ceased and the area declared a national park in 1982.It was recognized as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1985.

Due to its strategic location in the middle of Central Asian migratory flyway and presence of water, large congregations of ducks, geese, coots, pelicans and waders arrive in the winter. It also serves as a wintering area for other globally threatened species such as the Greater Spotted Eagle and Imperial Eagle. During the breeding season the most spectacular heronry in the region is formed by 15 species of herons, ibis, cormorants, spoonbills and storks. It is the house of 20,000 birds nest.

• One of the best bird watching destinations in India.
• UNESCO-listed wetland of international importance.
• Home to rare species like Siberian cranes, painted storks, and bar-headed geese.
• Heaven for bird photographers and wildlife enthusiasts.
• You can walk in nature and enjoy the ride of bicycle. The bicycle is available on rent and they may demand a Identitication card like Driving license, Passport etc.
• Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary is easily accessable from Delhi, Jaipur, and Agra – perfect for weekend getaways

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit is during winter (October to March) when thousands of migratory birds arrive. However, each season offers a unique charm.

Season	What to Expect
October – March	Peak bird watching season, ideal for photos
April – June	Fewer birds, but peaceful and less crowded
July – September	Lush greenery and breeding season for resident birds

For the best birding experience, plan your visit early in the morning or around sunset, when bird activity is highest.

Bharatpur is well-connected by road and rail, making it easily accessible from major cities in North India.

Air:

• Nearest Airport: Agra Airport (56 km) or Jaipur Airport (188 km)
• From the airport, take a taxi or bus to Bharatpur

Rail:

• Bharatpur Junction is connected to Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur via frequent trains

Road:

• From Delhi: 3–4 hours (200 km) via Yamuna Expressway
• From Jaipur: 4 hours (180 km) via NH 21
• From Agra: Just 1.5 hours (55 km)

• Timings: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM (summer), 6:30 AM to 5:00 PM (winter)
• Entry : Fees for entry.
• Cycle Rental: Nominal rare
• Rickshaw Ride (with guide): As per the government rule.

Tip: Hire a local rickshaw guide – many are trained naturalists and can help you spot rare species!. Generally it is done on hourly basis. Please keep an eye of the watch.

🐦 Birdwatching

Spot migratory birds like:

• Siberian Cranes (extremely rare)
• Painted Storks
• Bar-headed Geese
• Indian Darter
• Greater Flamingos
• Pelicans, Herons, and Spoonbills

📸 Bird Photography

Bharatpur is one of the top bird photography destinations in India. With foggy mornings, golden hour light, and up-close bird sightings, it’s a dream for wildlife photographers.

Tip: Bring a zoom lens (300mm or more) for best results.

🚲 Cycling & Walking Trails

Explore the park at your own pace by renting a bicycle or walking along the paved trails.

🛶 Boating (Seasonal)

During the monsoon and early winter, water levels allow for boat safaris in the wetland areas. It offers a serene perspective and better access to shy species.

Keoladeo Temple & Local Culture

The sanctuary gets its name from the ancient Keoladeo Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, located inside the park. Visiting the temple adds a spiritual touch to your nature journey.

Also, don’t miss the local culture and cuisine. From spicy Rajasthani curries to sweet Ghevar and Malpua, the food is as rich as the birdlife.

Where to Stay in Bharatpur

Bharatpur has accommodation for every budget, from luxury lodges to backpacker stays.

Nearby Attractions

Make your trip more rewarding by exploring these nearby destinations:

• Lohagarh Fort (Bharatpur Fort): 18th-century fort known for its strong defense
• Deeg Palace: Beautiful water palaces and gardens, 32 km from Bharatpur
• Agra: Just an hour away – visit the Taj Mahal and Agra Fort
• Fatehpur Sikri: A UNESCO site, 25 km from Bharatpur – once Akbar’s capital

Travel Tips for Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary Visitors

• Bring binoculars for a better bird watching experience.
• Dress in neutral colors to blend into the environment.
• Avoid plastic – carry reusable water bottles and bags.
• Visit early morning for better sightings and photos.
• Hire a guide to learn more about bird behavior and spotting.

Writer : Hitendra Srivastava