New Delhi, March 2024: Every year, as the seasons shift and temperatures dip, a breathtaking spectacle unfolds across the Indian subcontinent. Millions of migratory birds, driven by an ancient instinct, embark on epic journeys spanning continents, seeking refuge in the warmth and bounty of India. From the wetlands of Gujarat to the arid desert of Rajasthan, diverse landscapes become havens for these feathered travellers, creating an unparalleled avian spectacle. Join us as we spread our wings of curiosity and embark on a flight of discovery to the enchanting world of migratory birds, where each fluttering wing tells a tale of survival, adaptation, and the untold beauty of the landscapes they grace.
Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary – A Paradise for Migratory Marvels
Spread across 23 islands, Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary is a haven for migratory birds. This idyllic island, situated on the banks of the serene Cauvery River, transforms into a vibrant tapestry of life each winter, welcoming the winged beauties ( more than 200 species) during the winter months.
From the graceful Asian Openbill Storks to the majestic Grey Herons, Spoonbill Storks, the delicate Spot-billed Pelicans, the Bar Headed Goose, and Knob Billed Ducks- all thrive here during the winter season. The elegant Black-headed Ibis can often be seen foraging in the shallows, while birdwatchers can also marvel at the vibrant plumage of the Lesser Flamingo and the comical antics of the Spot-billed Ducks. Bird enthusiasts can also spot Common Teals, Northern Pintails, and Marsh Harriers.
The best way to navigate the islands is on boats, taking a personal safari or a shared one, depending on your budget. For Indians, boats can be chartered for Rs 1,500 and foreigners for Rs 3,000. A one-day trip to the bird sanctuary is ideal to relish these migratory inhabitants.
- Best time to visit: Between November and May
- How to reach: The sanctuary is on the Bangalore-Mysore highway, about 3.5 hour drive from Bengaluru and a 30-minute drive from Mysore
- Places to Stay: Mysore Country Retreat for mid-range and KSTDC Mayura Riverview Srirangapatna for budget stay
- Contact Details: #8216642000 (Mysore County Retreat), #8970650004 (KSTDC) #9435015419( Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary)
Tal Chhapar Bird Sanctuary – A Desert Oasis for Feathered Travellers
In the heart of the Thar Desert, nestled amidst sand dunes and rugged terrain, lies an oasis of life – the Tal Chhapar Sanctuary. This unique ecosystem, once the hunting grounds of the Maharajas of Bikaner, has transformed into a haven for migratory birds, welcoming them with open arms every winter.
A tapestry of life unfolds on the desert sands every winter. Harriers of all varieties, including Montagu’s Harrier, Marsh Harrier, and Pallid Harrier, with their elegant wings and keen eyesight, sweep across the landscape in search of prey. The sky is filled with the calls of eagles, from the majestic Imperial Eagle, to the imposing Steppe Eagle, the powerful Tawny Eagle and Short-toed Eagle, soaring high above. Tal Chhapar offers a treasure trove of smaller migrants too- the Green Bee-eater, with its emerald plumage; the Indian Roller, with its enigmatic blue sheen; and the Indian Spotted Creeper, with its excellent camouflage, to name a few. One can also spot the Red Headed falcon on the hunt, swooping down swiftly from the sky- a mesmerising experience indeed! The star attractions are undoubtedly the Demoiselle Cranes, with their black and white plumage and their intricate courtship looking stunning against the backdrop of the setting sun.
A two-day trip to this birder’s haven is sufficient to capture the enigma of the migratory birds and also spot the other inhabitants of the desert, such as the Black-Naped Hare, Chinkara, Blackbuck, Desert Fox, Blue Bull, Nilgai, and Desert Cat, to name a few.
- Best time to visit: Between November and March
- How to reach: The sanctuary is a 5-hour drive from Jaipur airport and a 2.5-hour drive from Bikaner
- Place to Stay: Raptors Inn
- Contact Details: #8826907085 ( Mr. Atul, guide and owner of Raptors Inn)
Little Rann of Kutch – Where the Desert Blooms
Spread across a staggering 4,950 sq. km, Little Rann of Kutch in the wetlands of Gujarat is one of the largest reserves in India with a diverse landscape. This vast salt desert becomes a hotspot for migratory birds each winter, showcasing a spectacle of nature that leaves visitors spellbound.
Over 300 species of birds make this desert their winter home, creating a symphony of chirps, calls, and flapping wings. From the majestic Raptors, including Steppe, Imperial, and Short-toed Eagles, Falcons, Buzzards, and Harriers, to the dainty Pelicans, Ibises and flocks of Larks, all make this arid terrain their home for the winter. The dry land birds such as Sandgrouse, Coursers, Plovers, Chats, Wabblers, Babblers and Shrikes also flock to this winter wonderland with their elegant friends, the Demoiselle and Common Cranes. Great Hoopoe Lark, the endangered MacQueen’s Bustard, and Pallid Scops Owl are the other highlights of LRK. But the most spellbinding sight is the immense congregation of Lesser Flamingos. Thousands of these graceful birds descend upon this desert oasis, creating a breathtaking spectacle of colour and movement.
While here, visit the surrounding areas of Lake Nawa Talao, the wetlands near Patdi Fort, Viramgam Lake, the village lake of Dasada, and Surendranagar reservoirs, which also have brilliant winter birds. A 3-day trip is recommended to see the feathered brilliance abounding in these wetlands.
- Best time to visit: Between November and February
- How to reach: 3-hour drive from Ahmedabad and Rajkot airports.
- Place to Stay: Desert Coursers at Zainabad for a budget stay and Rann Riders at Dasada for mid-range.
- Contact Details: #9315242750 (Rann Riders), #9426372113 (Desert Coursers)
Bhigwan- A Kaleidoscope of Winged Wanderers
Nestled amidst the rolling hills of Maharashtra lies Bhigwan, a serene haven for nature enthusiasts. This idyllic town transforms into a captivating sight each winter as thousands of migratory birds descend upon its tranquil waters, making it their temporary home.
Over 200 species of birds flock to this lake town, but the showstoppers are the majestic Greater Flamingo, the elegant Bar-headed Goose, the colourful Eurasian Spoonbill, the intrepid explorer that is the Bar Tailed Godwit, and the entertaining Black-winged Stilt. The other feathered heroes of Bhigwan include Collared Pratincole, Osprey, Peregrine Falcon, Painted Stork, Bar-headed Geese, various species of Gulls, and Demoiselle Crane.
A two-day trip to Bhigwan is sufficient to see this bustling avian carnival.
- Best time to visit: Between December and March
- How to reach: 1-hour drive from Pune Airport
- Place to Stay: Kranti Flamingo Point
- Contact Details: #9307769498 (Aravind Waghmare, guide and owner of Kranti Flamingo Point)
Bharatpur- A Tryst with the Feathered Warriors
Nestled in the heart of Rajasthan, Keoladeo National Park, formerly known as Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary, emerges as a mesmerizing haven for migratory birds. Each winter, this UNESCO World Heritage Site witnesses a spectacular avian migration from Central Asia, Siberia, and Central Asia, with over 350 species taking residence here.
Elegant Siberian Cranes make a royal entrance, sharing the stage with vibrant Northern Pintails, delicate Rosy Pelicans, and the majestic Sarus Cranes. The resounding calls of Painted Storks, the graceful flight of Common Coots and the charismatic and endangered species of Imperial Eagle and Greater Spotted Eagle enliven this avian abode. Huge flocks of Pelicans, Waders, Geese, and Ducks also migrate here due to its strategic location. Blue-cheeked Bee-eater and European Roller, amongst others, are the passage migrants here who spend a short period in Bharatpur before flying back to their homes.
- Best time to visit: Between December and March
- How to reach: 1-hour drive from Agra Airport
- Place to Stay: The Birder’s Inn
- Contact Details: #5644297050, #7297991613
So, pack your bags, grab your binoculars and camera, and embark on a journey to discover these migratory bird treasures for an unforgettable sojourn this winter.
By Shweta Dravid
Author: Jaun Shahi
Journalist, Sub-Editor, Travellers’ World Jaun is a soft-spoken and gentle soul who thrives as a Journalist with his exceptional observation skills and an eye for intricate details. He is a true multitasker who efficiently handles various tasks and always brings a professional approach to everything he does. His genuine team spirit makes him an integral part of the TW family, as he consistently collaborates and supports his colleagues.
