Once a royal duck-shooting reserve, Keoladeo in Rajasthan is now a UNESCO-listed wetland sanctuary and one of the finest birdwatching destinations in the world. Its mosaic of shallow lakes, marshes, and grasslands attracts thousands of resident and migratory birds. From the vibrant Saras Cranes and Painted Storks to wintering flocks of geese, pelicans, and even the rare Siberian Crane in the past, the park is a living aviary. Mammals like jackals and spotted deer also inhabit this rich ecosystem.

Keoladeo National Park (Bharatpur) is one of the world’s finest bird sanctuaries, hosting over 370 bird species. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for migratory waterfowl, especially the Siberian crane (now rarely seen), bar-headed geese, ruddy shelduck, gadwalls, pintails, and shovelers. The wetlands also support sarus cranes, storks, pelicans, herons, and cormorants. Resident species include kingfishers, owls, drongos, and woodpeckers. Mammals include spotted deer, nilgai, jackals, fishing cats, and occasionally hyenas. Pythons and monitor lizards are also part of the park’s biodiversity.

Safari Timings:

• Open throughout the day from sunrise to sunset.
   

Key Info:

• Open: Year-round.
• Best Time: October to March (for migratory birds like Siberian Crane).
• UNESCO World Heritage Site; paradise for bird watchers.
• Explore via walking, cycle rickshaws, and bicycles (no jeep safaris).

Keoladeo National Park Fact

• Location of Keoladeo: Bharatpur District, Rajasthan
• Nearest Access to Keoladeo: Bharatpur (5 km), Agra Airport (56 km)
• Coverage Area of Keoladeo: 29-sq-kms
• Climate of Keoladeo: Winter: 7°C – 20°C, Summer: 30°C – 45°C
• Major Wildlife Attraction in Keoladeo: Over 370 bird species including Siberian Crane (migratory), Painted Stork, Pelican, Ducks, Jackal, Wild Boar, Nilgai
• Best Time to Visit Keoladeo: October to March