Bharatpur
Bird Sanctuary, also known as the Keoladeo Ghana National Park, is located
in the northwestern state of Rajasthan. The sanctuary harbours multiple
variates of avian species, both domestic as well as migratory that arrive
here during winters from as far as Siberia and Central Asia. It is truly a
paradise for ornithologists and bird fanciers and covers an area of around
29 sq km.
Wildlife Species of the Park
The terrain of the sanctuary comprises of 11 sq km of marshes, the other
areas being a mix of scrublands and grasslands. The sanctuary harbours more
than 300 species of exotic avian species along with some faunal species like
sambar, chital, nilgai and wild boar.
Chatter and chirp can be heard in every corner of the park. Tourists and
bird-watchers arrive here to see and capture in their handy-cams the lively
and colourful lot of a variety of avian species. Leave alone the domestic
species, migratory birds arrive here from places like Siberia and other
parts of Central Asia during the winter period. Commonly sighted feathered
species include wagtails, stints, warblers, flycatchers, hawks, eagles,
ducks, larks, geese, pipits, cranes, pelicans, teals, heron, shanks etc.
Adventure Safaris Offered
For a real birding experience, you need to hit the well-defined forest
trails of Keoladeo Ghana on foot. However, you also have the option of
taking a cycle ride inside. Apart from that, the forest department offers
excellent options of rickshaw safari to soak up the charm. The rickshaw
pullers are well versed (trained by the forest department itself) with the
faunal species of the park.
Another nice option is to undertake a boat ride along the lake lying
inside. An early morning boat ride is much rewarding for tourists who wish
to explore the rarest of bird species at Bharatpur sanctuary. August to
November and October to February are the ideal periods to make a visit here.
Other Attractions In & Around the Park
»
Bharatpur Palace : Visitors to the sanctuary never miss a visit to this
medieval palace. Here, you can see and experience the wonderful blend of the
Mughal and the Rajput styles of architecture.
» Bharatpur Government Museum : One of the biggest
draws at Bharatpur is the famed government museum of Bharatpur. The museum
displays an interesting collection of the royal antiquities of the Bharatpur
royalty.
» Lohargarh Fort : The ancient fort of Lohargarh is
yet another attraction for tourists. It is interesting to note that
invincible fort was out of reach of the British regime even after multiple
attacks by them.
Accessibility
Those who wish to take the air-route need to fly to Agra's Kheria Airport
first. Further, one can undertake a road journey of 2-3 hours to Bharatpur
(56 km from Agra). The Bharatpur railway station is just 6 km from the park
and has regular mail and express trains connecting to Delhi, Mumbai, Jaipur
and Agra. By road, Bharatpur is easily accessible from cities like Agra (56
km) and Delhi (176 km).
Best
Golden Traingle Tour (7D) 
