Introduction

It is one of the most popular National Parks in India. Strategic location and diverse birdlife combine to make it ever attractive. Barely 180 km from the capital en route the Delhi-Agra-Jaipur circuit, it forms a part of many international tourist itineraries. And given its proximity to three major cities, domestic tourists too throng the place in large numbers.

Popularly known as Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary, the Park is also referred to as Bharatpur ‘Ghana’ Bird Sanctuary and Keoladeo ‘Ghana’ National Park. ‘Ghana’ in Hindi means dense and refers to the Park’s once thick vegetation. Named after the Shiva (also known as Keoladeo) temple located in the center of the Park, it has been a happy hunting ground to many including the legendary birdman, Dr. Salim Ali. Its compact size coupled with the wide variety of birds draws people from far and wide. While most are day visitors, bird lovers camp at hotels near the Park gate to sight and study birds over days. The best time for sighting is early in the morning. The Park opens at 0600 and most serious watchers are at the gate by then. We’d recommend you at least an overnight stay to enjoy the wildlife. Walk, cycle, ride a rickshaw along the embankments that separate different body bodies and marshes to enjoy this unique habitat.

Every winter birds from Central Asia, Afghanistan, China and Siberia fly over the icy peaks of Hindu Kush and Himalayas to descend on to the patch of green called Keoladeo National Park. Siberian Crane, Indian Little Ringed Plover, Steppe Eagle, Pale and Marsh Harriers, Osprey, Common Teal, Indian Little Ringed Plover and Pelicans are the main attractions among the migratory birds. These birds start arriving around October and many stay on till March. Keoladeo’s primary claim to fame however is the rare Siberian Crane. These birds are easy to identify. Pure white body plumage, dark red forehead with no feathers, reddish to yellow eyes and reddish pink legs are some their characteristic features. Their distinctive mating ritual is a sought after event among birders. Flying 6400 km from their permanent home in Siberia (Russia), Keoladeo has been their winter home for centuries. But around the turn of the century their numbers started dwindling sharply. Research studies attribute this primarily to their hunting over Afghanistan and Pakistan. The last documented sighting at Keoladeo was in 2002. Only around 3000 of this highly endangered species survive today.

While the star attraction has gone missing, there is still plenty to look out for at Keoladeo. Among the water birds look out for the Painted Stork, Asian Openbill, Black-headed Ibis, Darter, Shoveller, Teal, Bronze-winged and Pheasant-tailed Jacanas, Ruddy Shelduck, Demoiselle and Sarus Cranes. The last one is another bird that draws lot of attention. Tallest among the crane species at around six feet, their wingspan goes up to eight feet. While the body plumage is light grey, the head is part green but largely orange-red down to the throat and upper neck. These are local Indian birds but the species can also be seen in some South East Asian countries and north east Australia.

Finally, you have the predators or birds of prey. Leading this deadly pack is the Crested Serpent Eagle. Watch them soar into the sky and come gliding down to pick up snakes and lizards. Make sure you have powerful binoculars or telescope to catch these high fliers. Also keep an eye out for the White-rumped Vulture, Marsh Harrier, Ring-tailed Fish Eagle, Collared Scops Owl, Spotted Owlet, Short-toed Eagle, Black-shouldered Kite, Pallas's Fish Eagle and Tawny Eagle among others.

Among the wild animals on view are three from the cat family namely the Jungle cat, Leopard cat and Fishing cat. Likewise Sambar, Chital and Blackbucks are easily visible from the deer family. Nilgai and wild boars are also commonly seen. Another easy sighting is that of the Rock Pythons. They can be seen lying on rocks during winters or at times on trees.

2003 saw an unlikely new visitor to the Park. A tiger sneaked in from somewhere. Experts believe it must have made its way from Ranthambhore along the green corridor that comes till the river close to the Park. It was found dead a few years later.

Winter draws most visitors to the Park. Migratory birds are the main attraction. However, monsoon months are great for observing birdlife as this is breeding season for most local birds such as herons, cormorants, egrets. There’s lot of action around this time with much jostling for nesting. Boating is also most likely during this season, and it gives fine opportunities to see bird nesting. Around this time an estimated 44,000 trees in this park are used for nesting.

From the time Keoladeo was declared a bird sanctuary in 1956, the Park has seen many ups and downs but remains one of the most sought after Parks in India.

Special Attributes

A World Heritage Site

Nuisance

The site is very peaceful and free of irritants.

Dressing restrictions

No restrictions, however wear sober, neutral shades. And of course a good pair of walking shoes.

Connectivity

If you are taking the road route coming from either Jaipur or Agra, you don't need to touch Bharatpur. You can get off near the Park gate. Visitors approaching from Delhi and Mathura have to touch Bharatpur en route to the Park. People taking the train option have to disembark at Bharatpur station about 7 km away.

Enjoyed by

Children, nature and bird lovers

Exposure

Although the Park has plenty of trees along the embankments, it is advisable to carry a cap and a bottle of water.

Avoidable Season

None. Every season has its individual charm

Facilities

Basic, so plan accordingly

Things Not Allowed

Alcohol and non-vegetarian food is strictly prohibited. While inside the Park, put your non-biodegradable litter (tin cans, plastic, glass bottles, metal foils etc.) at places designated for the same.

Tip

Carry a pair of binoculars, wear neutral shade clothing and keep a mosquito repellent cream handy.

Type of site

National park