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Bird Sanctuaries in Gujarat

Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary

Nalsarovar bird sanctuary is situated approximately 70 Km from Ahmedabad in the southwest region, on the Ahmedabad –Surendranagar border. It was established in 1969 A.D. It is mainly inhabited by migratory birds, and is the largest wetland bird sanctuary in Gujarat.

Much of northern Gujarat is a wasteland, thus attracting a myriad variety of birds to the thorn scrub and a stretch of wetlands. This has resulted in a wide array of grasslands turning refuge to birds. Khijadia Bird Sanctuary in Jamnagar, Porbandar Bird Sanctuary to list a few, and the largest among these is Nalsarovar bird sanctuary.

The sanctuary primarily comprises a huge lake and ambient swamps. The lake measures 123 sq. km and is rich with innumerable species of flora and fauna. It is a destination to migratory birds coming all the way from Siberia and Russia. Just after the monsoon recedes, the migratory birds start flocking here. Kingfishers, egrets, darters, storks and cormorants spear with their dagger shaped beaks, are a few prominent varieties.

The other commonly sighted birds are the jacanas, moorhens, coots, grebes and ducks feeding mainly on plants. Birds that strain water from their specially designed beaks, keeping the food in, are a remarkable sight. Nalsarovar observes winter migrants from the north that includes Rosy Pelicans, White Storks, Flamingoes, Brahminy Ducks and Herons.

The boat ride available here is indeed a welcome change as one can get into these ferries and have a picturesque view of the sunrise and sunset. Boating on the Nal Lake is enchanting with very feasible bird watching opportunities. Birdcalls, mating tricks, the food hunt procedure is a visual treat.

A suitable refuge for migratory birds, Nalsarovar boasts of an astonishing number of 2.53 Lakh Birds of 112 different species. Apart from the winter migratory birds, there is a substantial number of fauna exemplified by jungle cats, foxes, and jackals. The other wildlife includes diverse species of insects.

Away from the din of the city, if tranquility is what you seek, then set out on a trip to Nalsarovar .Ardent bird lovers and those wanting some calm, will realize that Nalsarovar is indeed a nature lover’s paradise. The placid lake, the colorful sunsets, beautified with vibrant hues of the sun, is indeed an experience that is akin to bliss& accord.

Reaching there

By Train: The nearest railway head is Sanand which is situated at a distance of 10 km from the Sanctuary.

By Road: It is situated approximately 70km from Ahmedabad and can be reached by private or hired vehicles.

Staying there

Forest Rest House at Nalsarovar.
Palace Utelia at Utelia. (Approx 10 Kms)
Phone 079 – 6445770

Thol Wildlife Sanctuary

The Thol Wildlife Sanctuary is situated 40 km away from Ahmedabad on the northern side of Gujarat, in the Mehsana district. It was originally a man made tank which gained acceptance as a sanctuary in the year 1988. Home to water birds this sanctuary spans a total area of seven square kilometers.

There are few lakes within the Sanctuary of which Thol is the largest and is characterized by marshy fringes. It is surrounded by scrub forests and is an ideal place for migratory birds. The most commonly seen water birds are waders and waterfowls.

The other species commonly seen here include wildfowl, flamingos, grey pelicans, black ibis and an abundance of other wetland birds. White Pelicans, Mallards, Greylag Cheese, and Saras Crane are the other birds seen here. Birds start flocking in at this sanctuary between the months of November and January. Thol Sanctuary is also known as an ornithologist’s paradise. The best time to visit this place is between the months of October and March since the migratory birds seek refuge at the sanctuary during winters.

It is a must see wildlife destination of Gujarat and tourists are requested to carry binoculars to enable a spectacular extravagance of the vibrant feathered creatures.

Places to visit nearby

Kadi: Home to Several Jain temples.

Reaching there

By Air: The nearest airport is Ahmedabad.

By Train: The nearest railway head is Mehsana or Ahmedabad.

By Road: It is well connected by roads to Ahmedabad.

Staying there

Several Hotels and Guest Houses in Ahmedabad