Okhla Bird Sanctuary
India
India is a fantastic destination for birders, and while many people don’t think of the Delhi area as a good place for birdwatching, the Okhla Bird Sanctuary will open their eyes. Spread out over around 1.5 square miles (4 square kilometers) on the outskirts of town, this protected area provides refuge for hundreds of types of birds.
The basics
The sanctuary stretches out over a marshy area on the banks of the Yamuna River and provides a place of refuge for a mix of migratory and resident species, including bluethroats, blue-tailed bee-eaters, black-shouldered kites, and more. You may even spot nilgai and other mammals during your visit, too. Tours to the sanctuary make visiting a breeze, and typically include transportation and the support of a guide.
Things to know before you go
- The Okhla Bird Sanctuary is a must-see for birders.
- Make sure to download a brochure with a species list from the sanctuary website before you head out.
- Vehicles are not allowed inside the sanctuary.
- There's an entry fee to visit the sanctuary, and foreign visitors pay extra. There's also a fee to use still and video cameras.
- Wear comfortable shoes and breathable clothing in muted colors that help you blend in with the environment.
How to get there
The Okhla Bird Sanctuary is on the border of Delhi and neighboring Noida, at least a 30-minute drive from Connaught Place (depending on traffic). The easiest way to get there is by taking a cab or booking a tour that includes transportation from your hotel. Note that the nearest metro station is Noida Sector 16 (on the Blue Line of the Delhi Metro) about a 10-minute drive away.
When to get there
The sanctuary is open every day of the week, with slightly longer hours during the summer months. The best time to visit is early in the morning, when the birds are at their most active, though you’ll have good viewing opportunities around dusk, too. Winter visits offer better weather and more opportunities to see migratory birds.
Birding in Sultanpur National Park
Also in the National Capital Region, in the suburb of Gurgaon (aka Gurugram), Sultanpur National Park offers more great birding opportunities, with four watchtowers for birders and a visitor center with displays detailing the species found in the area. As with Okhla Bird Sanctuary, it’s at its best in the winter, during peak migratory bird season.
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