Nestled in the eastern heartland of Rajasthan, just 5 kilometres southeast of the historic city of Bharatpur, lies one of the world’s most captivating avian sanctuaries — the Keoladeo Ghana National Park, formerly known as the Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary. This UNESCO World Heritage Site, spanning over 29 square kilometres, is a living testament to nature’s grandeur and mankind’s contribution to its conservation.
A Reservoir Turned Sanctuary
The origins of Keoladeo Ghana National Park trace back to the mid-18th century, when the then Maharaja of Bharatpur constructed the Ajan Bund (dam) to prevent floods and collect monsoon waters. This artificial reservoir led to the formation of a seasonal wetland in a natural depression, transforming it over time into an ideal habitat for migratory and resident birds.
By the 1850s, the area had become a popular royal hunting ground for the Maharajas of Bharatpur and their British allies. One of the most astonishing anecdotes from this era tells of Lord Linlithgow, the Viceroy of India (1936–1943), who with his entourage reportedly shot over 4,000 ducks in a single day.
Thankfully, the sanctuary’s fate shifted in the 20th century. It was declared a national park in 1982 and earned the coveted status of a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985.
Sanctuary of Diversity: Birds and Beyond
Keoladeo Ghana National Park today is hailed as one of the richest bird habitats in the world, home to over 370 species of birds and a diverse range of mammals, reptiles, amphibians, and flora.
Every year, from October to March, thousands of migratory birds arrive from faraway lands like Siberia, China, and Central Asia. The star attractions include:
- Green Sandpipers
- Siberian Cranes (rare visitors)
- Cranes
- Painted Storks
- Common Teal
- Egrets
- Coots
- Darters
- Warblers
- Rosy Pastors
- Flycatchers
Beyond birds, the park also shelters:
- Nilgai (Blue Bull)
- Sambar Deer
- Spotted Deer
- Jackals
- Monitor Lizards
- Basking Pythons
This diverse ecosystem flourishes due to the park’s mosaic of wetlands, woodlands, grasslands, and swamps, making it a true ecological treasure trove.
A Tribute to Salim Ali
Much of Keoladeo’s current glory is credited to Dr. Salim Ali, India’s most respected ornithologist and naturalist. His relentless efforts in the mid-20th century helped gather crucial governmental support to ensure the park’s long-term protection. His name remains synonymous with bird conservation in India, and Keoladeo is often cited in association with his legacy.
Exploring the Park: On Foot, By Cycle or Rickshaw
Visitors can explore the park through well-marked trails that wind through different ecosystems. You can choose to:
- Walk the serene trails
- Hire a bicycle
- Opt for a cycle-rickshaw, whose pullers are trained bird watchers themselves!
These rickshaw guides not only offer a comfortable ride but also enrich your experience with fascinating trivia about the bird species, their nesting habits, and migratory patterns.
A Paradise in Winter
The park is best visited between October and March, when the migratory birds arrive and the weather is most pleasant. Early morning hours offer the best chances to spot rare species and enjoy the tranquil ambience of the wetlands blanketed in morning mist.
Location and Accessibility
- Nearest City: Bharatpur (5 km)
- Nearest Airport: Agra (56 km)
- Distance from Delhi: 184 km
- By Rail: Bharatpur Junction is well-connected to major Indian cities like Delhi, Jaipur, Agra, and Mumbai.
From the station, local taxis and auto-rickshaws are readily available to take you to the park entrance.
Conservation & Responsibility
As a protected reserve, Keoladeo is a model of community-involved conservation. Visitors are encouraged to respect wildlife and avoid littering or loud noises. Photography is permitted, but flash use is discouraged as it may disturb the birds.
A Legacy Worth Protecting
Keoladeo Ghana National Park is more than a sanctuary—it is a vibrant theatre of nature, where every tree, waterbody, and wingbeat tells a story of resilience, migration, and harmony. Whether you are a seasoned birder, a curious traveller, or a family seeking connection with nature, this park welcomes you into a world where wings and whispers fill the air, and where the heartbeat of India’s natural heritage still beats strong.