10 Best Bird Watching Destinations in India

10 Best Bird Watching Destinations in India

10 Best Bird Watching Destinations in India


India, with its diverse landscapes and rich biodiversity, is a paradise for birdwatchers. From the majestic Himalayan peaks to the serene backwaters of Kerala, there's something for every bird enthusiast. Here are 10 of the best bird watching destinations in India:

1. Rann of Kutch, Gujarat


  • Why visit: The Rann of Kutch, a vast salt desert, is home to numerous migratory birds, including flamingos, pelicans, and cranes.
  • Best time to visit: November to March

2. Kaziranga National Park, Assam


  • Why visit: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is renowned for its one-horned rhinoceroses but also boasts a rich avian diversity, including waterbirds, raptors, and hornbills.
  • Best time to visit: November to March

3. Jim Corbett National Park, Uttarakhand


  • Why visit: Aside from its tigers, Jim Corbett is a great place to spot a variety of bird species, from kingfishers and herons to eagles and vultures.
  • Best time to visit: November to March

4. Sundarbans National Park, West Bengal


  • Why visit: This mangrove forest is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to the Bengal tiger. It also attracts a diverse range of birds, including kingfishers, herons, and egrets.
  • Best time to visit: November to March

5. Thattekad Bird Sanctuary, Kerala

  • Why visit: Known as the "birdwatcher's paradise," Thattekad is home to over 300 species of birds, including endemic species like the Nilgiri Wood Pigeon and the Crimson-throated Barbet.
  • Best time to visit: October to February

6. Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary, Gujarat


  • Why visit: This shallow lake is a popular wintering ground for migratory birds, including flamingos, pelicans, and cranes.
  • Best time to visit: November to March

7. Pangong Lake, Ladakh


  • Why visit: This high-altitude lake offers stunning scenery and is home to a variety of high-altitude birds, including Tibetan Sand Grouse, Snowcock, and Red-billed Chough.
  • Best time to visit: June to August

8. Periyar National Park, Kerala


  • Why visit: This national park is known for its elephants but also has a diverse avian population, including hornbills, kingfishers, and raptors.
  • Best time to visit: November to March

9. Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary, Rajasthan


  • Why visit: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a paradise for birdwatchers, with over 370 species recorded. The sanctuary is especially famous for its migratory waterfowl, including cranes, geese, and ducks.
  • Best time to visit: November to March

10. Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary, Karnataka


  • Why visit: This dense tropical rainforest is home to a variety of bird species, including hornbills, kingfishers, and raptors.
  • Best time to visit: November to March

These are just a few of the many excellent birdwatching destinations in India. With careful planning and a bit of luck, you can spot a wide variety of bird species and create unforgettable memories.