Keoladeo National Park (Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary)

Keoladeo National Park is a famous bird sanctuary in Bharatpur that is home to over 350 different species of birds. Formerly a duck-hunting site of the Maharajas, it was declared a protected sanctuary in India in 1982 and is now also a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Many of the birds migrate from all over Asia in the winter months, from areas such as China, Afghanistan and Turkmenistan. Ducks, coots, geese and pelican sightings are common all over the park’s waters, while eagles, warblers, osprey, partridges and quails roam the land. Perhaps the most famous sighting is of the rare endangered Siberian crane.
Visitors can also see many species of snakes, turtles and lizards, as well as mammals and local plants. Many spend several days exploring the grasslands, woodlands and wetlands, looking to spot the variety of birds here.

Practical Info

The park is located in eastern Rajasthan, 1.2 miles (2 km) south of Bharatpur and 31 miles (50 km) from Agra. Many train routes stop in Bharatpur; the entrance to the park is close to the city train station and bus stop. It is open daily from dawn to dusk, though in winter, visitors usually exit by 6 p.m. There is a network of paths available to explore the park on foot, but bicycles are not allowed. Admission costs 200 Indian Rupees for foreigners.