
Having
the distinction of being a World Heritage Site, Keoladeo Ghana National Park
in Rajasthan is truly a paradise for ornithologists and wildlife fanciers.
Also known as the Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary, it covers an area of 28.7 sq km
and boasts over 400 species of domestic as well as migratory birds. 175 km
from India's capital Delhi, Bharatpur is located on the Agra-Jaipur road.
Wildlife Species of the Park
The terrain of the sanctuary comprises of mixed wetlands, woodland,
grasslands and scrub forests. Though, the sanctuary is popular for
harbouring the migratory Siberian Cranes, it is not only about these
species. There are a wide variety of other domestic and migratory birds that
make one of the finest birding paradise not only in India but in the whole
world.
The mixed deciduous forests of the sanctuary come alive with hundreds of
colourful feathered species a complete delight and experience for
wildlife enthusiasts. Commonly sighted species include cormorants, herons,
spoonbills, darters, cranes, egrets, pelicans, chats, owls, vultures,
eagles, harriers, kingfishers, geese, flamingos, ibises etc.
The arrival of the migratory birds species and their mingling with the
domestic ones results into an interesting cacophony of sounds. Herons,
egrets, cormorants, coots, harriers and cranes are the first to arrive here
during winter period, of course, the Siberian Crane being the cynosure of
all eyes here. Which is more, there are animals to be seen like jackal,
sambar, wild boar, mongoose, turtles etc.
Adventure Safaris Offered

There
are a number of safari options for wildlife lovers here. A rickshaw safari
through the confines of the sanctuary is much rewarding. The rickshaw
pullers have taken special training from the forest department and thus are
well informed of the flora and fauna of the park. Besides, you can choose to
take a boat safari along the lake here. While taking a boat ride, the
preferred time is in the early morning. You can also hit the trails on a
cycle or on foot to soak up the charm at your own pace.
You can make a trip to the park between August and February.
Other Attractions In & Around the Park
» Bharatpur Palace : The medieval palace of
Bharatpur comes as a must-visit for all. The architecture of the palace
reminds you of the wonderful assimilation of the Rajput and the Mughal
styles.
» Bharatpur Government Museum : A wonderful
experience awaits the visitors at the Government Museum of Bharatpur. The
museum exhibits a fascinating collection belonging to the royal families of
Bharatpur.
Accessibility
Agra, which is just 56 km from Bharatpur, serves as the closest air-link
with its Kheria Airport. So, travellers first need to fly down to Agra and
then they can undertake a road journey spanning 3-4 hours. At a distance of
6 km from the park lies the Bharatpur Railway Station with connecting mail
and express trains to Delhi, Mumbai, Jaipur and Agra. One can also travel by
road-route to Bharatpur from Agra (56 km) and Delhi (176 km).