Keoladeo National Park, formerly known as Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary, is a renowned wildlife sanctuary and UNESCO World Heritage Site in Rajasthan, India. This park is celebrated for its rich avian population and is one of the world's most significant bird sanctuaries. Home to over 370 bird species, it attracts both resident and migratory birds. Every winter, the park becomes a paradise for birdwatchers as thousands of migratory birds flock to its wetlands.
The park hosts an impressive array of birdlife. In addition to its avian inhabitants, Keoladeo also supports a variety of other wildlife, including mammals and reptiles, making it a diverse and vital ecosystem.
Tour Cost: INR 7999 Per Person
Single Room Supplement: INR 2200
During the monsoon season, Keoladeo National Park transforms into a lush, vibrant ecosystem, attracting a diverse array of animal and bird species. Here are some species you can expect to see.
Expected species: Sarus Crane, Dusky Eagle-Owl, Knob-billed Duck, Lesser Whistling Duck, Cotton Pygmy Goose, Common Kingfisher, Pied Kingfisher, Black, Yellow & Cinnamon Bittern, Painted Stork, Openbill Stork, Egrets (Great, Intermediate, and Little), Grey Heron, Indian Pond Heron, Cattle Egret, Black-necked Stork, Darter, Indian Cormorant, Little Cormorant, Black-headed Ibis, Purple Heron, Night Heron, Spoonbill, Lesser Whistling Duck, Red-wattled Lapwing, Black-winged Stilt, Spotted Owlet, Collared Scops Owl, Crested Serpent Eagle, Indian Spotted Eagle, Shikra, Black Kite, Brahminy Kite
Nilgai (Blue Bull), Sambar Deer, Spotted Deer (Chital), Wild Boar, Golden Jackal, Striped Hyena, Indian Grey Mongoose, Indian Hare
Indian Python, Russell's Viper, Spectacled Cobra, Rat Snake, Monitor Lizard, Indian Flap shell Turtle
The monsoon season rejuvenates the park's wetlands, attracting a variety of waders and waterfowl. It is also a crucial breeding period for many resident bird species, making it an excellent time for observing nesting behaviors and juvenile birds. The lush greenery and abundant water sources create a thriving habitat for the park's diverse wildlife.
Itinerary
Day 01: Delhi to Bharatpur
Meals: Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: Kadamb Kunj or Hotel Regenta or similar
The trip will begin early morning from Delhi to Bharatpur (201 km / 5 hr.). Arrival in Bharatpur is expected in the afternoon. Spend half a day birdwatching in Keoladeo National Park with your guide. You can choose to hire a bicycle or take an e-rickshaw ride for birding.
Afternoons during the monsoon can be warm but are often tempered by cool breezes and occasional showers. Post-lunch, as the temperature drops slightly, birding starts with renewed vigor. The rains rejuvenate the park, making it a vibrant, lush environment where the colors of the birds and the greenery seem even more vivid.
Late afternoon is a great time as many birds become more active again. Waterbirds like egrets, cormorants, and ibises can be seen in large numbers. The increased water levels during the monsoon also mean more opportunities to see reptiles like the Indian Rock Python and various species of turtles basking on the banks. The park's mammals, including the Sambar Deer and Wild Boar, are often seen moving about in the cooler, post-rain environment.
Dinner and overnight stay.
Day 02: Bharatpur to Delhi
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: None
Spend half a day birdwatching in Keoladeo National Park with the guide.
In the monsoon season, Keoladeo Ghana National Park transforms into a lush, verdant paradise, making the mornings especially refreshing. Visitors typically start their day early to take advantage of the cooler temperatures and the vibrant activity of the park's wildlife. The park opens at dawn, and many birders prefer to hire an e-rickshaw.
Our guide is knowledgeable about the best bird-watching spots and can navigate the wet terrain effectively. Walking or bicycling are also great ways to explore, especially when the park is carpeted in green and the air is crisp and fresh.
The monsoon brings a surge of activity among the resident birds, and many species can be seen foraging for food or displaying their breeding plumage. Water levels in the lakes and marshes rise, attracting a variety of waterfowl, waders, and other wetland birds. It's a prime time to spot species like the Painted Stork, Grey Heron, and different species of kingfishers. Early mornings are also good for sighting mammals like the Nilgai, Spotted Deer, and occasionally the Golden Jackal, as they come out to feed in the cool weather.
Check out at 12 noon. Afterward, drive back to Delhi, arriving in the evening.
Tour Ends.
Highlights
Explore a vast array of bird species, from the majestic to the rare
Enjoy exceptional birding and photo opportunities in diverse habitats such as scrubland and wetlands areas
Encounter a rich variety of flora and fauna, adding to the allure of your wildlife experience
Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of a UNESCO World Heritage site, a testament to the region's ecological significance
FAQs
1. What is the best time to visit Bharatpur for birding during the monsoon?
The monsoon season, from July to September, is ideal for birdwatching in Bharatpur, as it coincides with the breeding season of storks and herons. This is also a good time for herping tours in Bharatpur
2. During the monsoon in Bharatpur, which types of birds can one see?
During the monsoon, you can witness a variety of resident birds in their breeding plumage such as storks, herons, and several species of kingfishers and owls.
3. Are there specific tours for birding enthusiasts during the monsoon?
Yes, Asian Adventures offers specialized monsoon birding tours in Bharatpur, providing opportunities to explore the park with our expert guides.
4. What should I wear or bring for a monsoon birding tour in Bharatpur?
It is advisable to wear light and breathable clothing suitable for humid conditions. Bring binoculars, a camera with waterproof protection, insect repellent, and comfortable walking shoes.
5. Do I need to book accommodations in advance?
Yes, we will book accommodations in advance, especially during peak monsoon birding season, to ensure hygiene and safety.
6. Are there any restrictions or guidelines while birding in Bharatpur?
We advise visitors to follow park regulations and guidelines to ensure minimal disturbance to wildlife. Keep noise levels low and not feed or get too close to wildlife
7. Is transportation provided for tours to and within Bharatpur?
Typically, Asian Adventures provides transportation for tours to and within Bharatpur, ensuring convenient access to various birding sites within the national park.
8. What does Asian Adventures include in their tour packages?
Tour packages usually include accommodation, meals, guided birdwatching and nature-watching tours, park entry fees, and e-rickshaws within Bharatpur.
9. Is Bharatpur safe to visit during the monsoon?
Bharatpur is safe to visit during the monsoon. However, it is advisable to check weather forecasts and carry adequate gear along for tackling rain and slush.
10. Can I customize my birding tour itinerary?
Yes, you can if it is an independent tour for you. Or depending upon availability and the group size, Asian Adventures may offer options to customize birding tour itineraries to cater to specific interests or preferences.
Services Included
Accommodation for 1 Night
Meals as per Itinerary
Rickshaw ride in Bharatpur for 02 half days (01 rickshaw for 02 persons)
Bharatpur Park entrance fee for 02 days (once a day only)
Meals as per the itinerary
Dedicated vehicle for 02 days from Delhi
Birding guide in Bharatpur
Services Not Included
Optional Tours, tips, monument, museum entrance fee, any activity fee, camera fee, excursions, personal and incidental expenses.
Any flight, train insurance
Anything not mentioned in the inclusions
Blog
A Weekend Birding Adventure in Bharatpur with Asian Adventures
This past weekend, I had the pleasure of embarking on an unforgettable birding trip to Bharatpur, home to the renowned Keoladeo National Park, also known as Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary. The journey was organized by Asian Adventures and expertly guided by the seasoned birding expert, Mahendra Singh.
The trip kicked off with an early morning drive from Delhi to Bharatpur, a journey that took us about four hours. Upon arriving at the serene surroundings of Keoladeo National Park, we were immediately struck by the peaceful ambiance and the vibrant bird calls welcoming us. Mahendra Singh, our guide, met us at the entrance with a warm smile and an infectious enthusiasm for birding.
Equipped with binoculars, cameras, and a keen sense of adventure, we set off into the park. Mahendra’s deep knowledge of the local birdlife quickly became evident as he effortlessly identified species by their calls and pointed out rare sightings. Under his expert guidance, we spotted an array of birds including the graceful Painted Stork, the elusive Siberian Crane, and the vibrant Kingfisher. His passion for birding was truly inspiring, making every sighting an exciting discovery.
As the sun began to set, painting the sky with hues of orange and pink, we returned to our lodge to relax and reflect on the day's adventures. The lodge, selected by Asian Adventures, offered a comfortable and welcoming environment with all the amenities needed for a restful evening. We shared stories, reviewed our photographs, and eagerly anticipated the next day's exploration.
The following morning, we were up at dawn, ready to delve deeper into the park’s rich avian diversity. Mahendra guided us through different habitats within the sanctuary, each offering unique birding experiences. We were fortunate to observe nesting colonies, birds of prey, and an impressive variety of waterfowl. Mahendra’s ability to locate and identify birds was remarkable, enriching our understanding and appreciation of the sanctuary's ecosystem.
As our weekend adventure came to a close, we felt a profound connection to the natural world and a deeper appreciation for the beauty of birdlife. Mahendra Singh’s guidance and Asian Adventures' seamless organization made this trip an enriching and memorable experience.
For anyone seeking a weekend escape into nature, a birding trip to Bharatpur with Asian Adventures is a perfect choice. Whether you're a seasoned birder or a curious beginner, the expertise of guides like Mahendra Singh will ensure a rewarding and educational journey. Keoladeo National Park is a haven for bird enthusiasts and photographers alike, offering a serene retreat from the bustling city life
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