India is home to over 1,200 species of birds. For ornithologists, it is a haven. Exploring various species of birds in their habitats is one way of combining travel with hobby for them. Bird watchers have an impressive list of bird sanctuaries to visit in India. The top five among them are:

5 Best Bird Sanctuaries in India

Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary, Rajasthan:

Now called Keoladeo National Park, this bird sanctuary is a delight for bird watchers to visit especially in winter. Thousands of endangered and rare species of birds flock to this avifauna sanctuary in winter and the place turns into a paradise of exotic birds.

Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, Goa:

Situated along the Mandovi River in Goa, this bird sanctuary has a huge variety of local and migratory birds. Tourists who like to have a change of scene from the beaches can feast their eyes on these chirpy winged feathers like Parrots, Pelicans, Peafowls and Sparrows.

Sultanpur Bird Sanctuary, Haryana:

A protected area in Gurgoan, Sultanpur Bird Sanctuary is home to about 250 varieties of local and migratory birds. Purple sunbird, Common Hoope, Indian roller, Common spoonbill, White Ibis, Laughing Dove, Greater Flamingo, Siberian Crane and Wood sandpiper are some of the varieties found here. The sanctuary also has a library, children’s park and watch towers to attract tourists.

Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary, Karnataka:

Located near the banks of Kaveri River, this bird sanctuary is around 18 kilometres from Mysore. One among the largest bird sanctuaries of India, it is a stop for some striking migratory birds including Heron, Snake Bird, Ibis, Partridge and Egret. The surrounding greenery with the river snaking along adds to the wonders of the sanctuary.

Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, Kerala:

Situated in the Kottayam district on the back waters of the Vembanad Lake, the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary primarily attracts for its lovely scenery. It converts into a seasonal home to hundreds of migratory birds. Watching the birds like cuckoo, heron, cormorant, teal, Siberian Crane and other colourful ones flock the skies during sunrise or sunrise is a sight that stuns bird lovers and other tourists alike.

Tag along with the bird watchers of your family or in your friend circles to these prized bird sanctuaries. They will love them and rest assured, you will not be far behind!