One of India’s most well-known bird sanctuaries and a UNESCO World Heritage Site is the Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary in India, also called Keoladeo National Park. It is known for its biodiversity, especially its bird population, and is situated close to the city of Bharatpur in the state of Rajasthan. It covers an area of around 29 square kilometers.

History of Bharatpur bird sanctuary in India

1. Beginning as a Hunting Reserve in the 1850s: The sanctuary’s location was once a Bharatpur Maharaja’s exclusive hunting territory. It served as a shooting reserve for waterfowl during the 18th and 19th centuries. Hunting excursions were arranged here by the Maharajas, especially Maharaja Suraj Mal, the founder of Bharatpur, who appreciated the region’s abundant bird life.

2. Conversion as a Bird Sanctuary (1976): The Rajasthani government designated the land as a sanctuary in 1956. But it wasn’t until 1976 that Keoladeo National Park was formally recognized. “Keoladeo,” the park’s name, comes from the old Keoladeo Temple, which is situated inside the sanctuary. In 1981, the sanctuary was officially designated as a Ramsar Wetland site, acknowledging its significance as a wetland environment.

3. UNESCO World Heritage Site (1985): The Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985 in honor of its remarkable biodiversity and contribution to migratory bird conservation. It is regarded as one of India’s most significant bird habitats, drawing both migratory and permanent species.

4. Conservation Initiatives: To safeguard its delicate ecosystem, the park has implemented a number of conservation initiatives over the years. These include programs to manage water resources to help migrating birds, habitat restoration, and anti-poaching measures. The sanctuary is particularly well-known for its conservation efforts, which have had varying degrees of success because of shifting climate circumstances. One such example is the Siberian Crane.

Key Features

1. Birdwatching Paradise: More than 370 different species of birds, including migratory species from Siberia, Central Asia, and other regions of the world, can be found in Bharatpur. It is among India’s most significant bird habitats.

2. Flora & Fauna: In addition to birds, the refuge is home to a variety of amphibians, reptiles, and small animals. This abundant species is supported by the park’s grasslands, ponds, and extensive tropical and dry deciduous woods.

3. Migrating Birds: During the winter months (October to February), the sanctuary is especially well-known for housing migrating birds. The Siberian Crane, ducks, waders, and other species waterfowl are among the noteworthy species.

4. Activities: In the park, visitors can go boating, cycling, and birdwatching. The sanctuary’s well-kept walkways make it simple to explore its 29 square kilometer area.

5.The greatest time to visit Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary: is during the migratory season, which runs from October to February. This is when the sanctuary is most teeming with birds.

In the midst of breathtaking natural splendor, Bharatpur provides a tranquil and rewarding experience for anyone who enjoy birds or the outdoors.