But, the sanctuary is not only about Siberian Cranes. Any 1st time visitor is bound to be overwhelmed by the sheer number of waterfowl and waders which congregate on the shallow marshy lakes
of Bharatpur. Winter (Nov - Mar) is the best time to visit the sanctuary when Palearctic migrants join the residents. An average day can still throw up many rare and threatened species like the Solitary Lapwing, Indian Courser, Imperial, White-tailed, Greater and Indian Spotted Eagles, Darters, Black-necked, Painted and Asian Openbill Storks, Common, Sarus and Demoiselle Cranes, Dalmatian Pelicans, Black Bittern, Greater Painted Snipe, Large-tailed, Indian and Grey Nightjars, Dusky
Eagle Owls, Marshall's Iora, Siberian Rubythroat and Brook's Leaf Warblers. The 20 species of ducks, innumerable waders and raptors, water-seeking birds and approachable passerines all add to make Keoladeo a true birder's paradise.
The image gallery contains 58 images from Bharatpur, presenting many of the wintering species commonly seen at the Park.
How to reach: Bharatpur in Rajasthan is south west of New Delhi on National Highway 11 and is connected by road to Agra (60km), Jaipur (180 km) and New Delhi (175 km via Fatehpur Sikri and Agra). Many trains from N Delhi (N Delhi - Mumbai and Agra - Jaipur route) stop at Bharatpur. Bharatpur is easily reached by train or bus, although private taxis from New Delhi or Agra are most often used. The Park gate is close to the bus stand and
railway station.
Where to stay: Bharatpur has any number of hotel and private lodges. Santi Kutir and ITDC Forest Lodge are inside the park. Popular places include Wilderness Camp, Pelican and Sunbird ( all three close to the gate). I stayed at the new Kadam Kunj Hotel on the Jaipur - Agra road, 2 km from the park gate. I found it to be clean, well-appointed, reasonable and hospitable.
Park particulars: The Park is open all year from dawn to dusk. In winter the cycle-rickshaws get out of the Park by 6 pm. Entrance and camera fees (both nominal) are paid at the gate and checked inside at the barrier. Cycle-rickshaw guides charge INR 50/hour. Freelance naturalist guides are also available. Bicycles are available on hire at the gate or lodge where you stay and can be used to tour the Sanctuary.
Bharatpur has a network of tracks and many run along the water-bodies. They are best explored on foot or bicycles.
Strategy: 5 - 7 days is recommended if you are new to Keoladeo. Use a Cycle-rickshaw guide for the 1st day to get your bearings. Explore on bicycle/foot thereafter.
Best Time: November to March
Location: 27*07'-27*12'N, 77*29'-77*33'E
Links : > Keoladeo Ghana National Park by Jetair Tours
> Keoladeo National Park by Wildlifeindia.com
> Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary by Wildlife Tours India
> Where do you want to go birding in India today? - includes trip reports.
> World Heritage Site
> WWF India - Bharatpur page
