8 best places for birdwatching in India

ET Online Feb 10, 2025

Keoladeo National Park, Rajasthan

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Keoladeo is a winter paradise for migratory birds like Siberian cranes, pelicans, and painted storks. Its wetlands provide ideal conditions for birdwatching from November to March. Image Source: iStock

Sattal, Uttarakhand

Situated in the Kumaon hills, Sattal offers a vibrant birdwatching experience with sightings of the Himalayan woodpecker, red-billed leiothrix, and blue-throated barbet. Its serene lakes attract birders year-round, especially in winter. Image Source: iStock

Pangot, Uttarakhand

Just 15 km from Nainital, Pangot is a birding hotspot with over 250 species, including the elusive cheer pheasant and ultramarine flycatcher. Its tranquil forests make it a birdwatcher's dream. Image Source: iStock

Sundarbans, West Bengal

India’s largest mangrove forest, the Sundarbans is home to rare birds like the brown-winged kingfisher and masked finfoot. Boat safaris offer a unique way to spot these stunning avian species. Image Source: iStock

Chilika Lake, Odisha

Asia’s largest brackish water lagoon, Chilika hosts thousands of flamingos, pelicans, and ducks every winter. Nalabana Island within the lake is a prime birdwatching zone for spotting migratory species. Image Source: iStock

Eaglenest Wildlife Sanctuary, Arunachal Pradesh

A hidden gem in the Northeast, Eaglenest is famous for rare birds like the Bugun liocichla and Ward’s trogon. Its untouched forests make it a paradise for serious bird enthusiasts. Image Source: iStock

Thattekad Bird Sanctuary, Kerala

Also known as Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, Thattekad is a must-visit for birders seeking Malabar trogons, Sri Lanka frogmouths, and white-bellied treepies. The dense forests offer a rich bird diversity. Image Source: iStock

Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary, Karnataka

This wetland sanctuary along the Kaveri River is a nesting haven for painted storks, spoonbills, and river terns. Boat rides provide an up-close view of these beautiful migratory and resident birds. Image Source: iStock

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