Keoladeo Ghana National Park Bharatpur | Bird Sanctuary, Safari & Travel Guide

Keoladeo Ghana National Park is  Located in the Bharatpur district of Rajasthan, Keoladeo Ghana National Park (formerly Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary) is one of India’s most celebrated avifauna reserves. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a haven for over 370 species of birds, including migratory visitors from Siberia, Central Asia, and Europe. Spread over 29 sq km, the park’s wetlands and woodlands form a unique ecosystem teeming with biodiversity.

Originally a royal hunting ground, Keoladeo was declared a national park in 1982 and has since evolved into one of Asia’s finest bird sanctuaries, attracting ornithologists and photographers from around the world.

Overview

• Location: Bharatpur District, Rajasthan

• Established: 1982

• Area: 29 sq km

• Best Known For: Migratory birds, wetlands, and UNESCO status

• Nearest City: Bharatpur (2 km)

Flora & Fauna

Flora

The park features a blend of dry deciduous forests, grasslands, and shallow wetlands. Common flora includes babool, kadamb, jamun, and khejri trees, along with aquatic vegetation like water lilies, duckweed, and hydrilla that sustain aquatic life.

Fauna

Keoladeo Ghana is renowned for its spectacular bird diversity and serves as a wintering ground for countless migratory species.

Key species include:

• Siberian Crane (rare visitor)

• Painted Stork

• Bar-headed Goose

• Sarus Crane

• Pelicans, Herons, and Egrets

• Kingfishers, Owls, and Eagles

Apart from birds, the park is also home to nilgai (blue bull), spotted deer, jackals, mongoose, and several species of snakes and turtles.

Safari Experience

Exploring Keoladeo is a serene experience — more about peaceful observation than adrenaline-pumping safaris. Visitors can enjoy the park through guided walks, cycle rides, or rickshaw tours.

Safari & Tour Options

• Rickshaw Safari: Eco-friendly and perfect for bird photography.

• Bicycle Safari: Available for rent near the park gate.

• Walking Trails: Ideal for nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers.

• Boating (Seasonal): Operates during monsoon and winter when water levels are high.

Safari Timings

• Morning: 6:30 AM – 11:00 AM

• Evening: 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM

Guided tours can be booked at the park entrance or online through Rajasthan Forest Department portals.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Keoladeo Ghana National Park is between October and March, when migratory birds arrive in full abundance.

• Winter (Nov–Feb): Peak birdwatching season.

• Summer (Apr–Jun): Hot, fewer birds but good for flora observation.

• Monsoon (Jul–Sep): Lush greenery and breeding season for resident birds.

How to Reach

• By Air: Nearest airport — Agra Airport (56 km)

• By Train: Bharatpur Junction (5 km) connects to Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur.

• By Road: Regular buses and taxis from Agra (55 km), Jaipur (185 km), and Delhi (180 km).

Entry Fees & Timings

• Entry Fee: ₹75 (Indians), ₹500 (foreign nationals)

• Rickshaw Ride: ₹150–₹300 per hour

• Bicycle Rent: ₹50–₹100 per hour

• Camera Fee: ₹100 (still), ₹400 (video)

• Park Timings: 6:30 AM – 6:00 PM

Tickets and guides are available at the Keoladeo National Park Gate, Bharatpur.

Nearby Attractions

• Lohagarh Fort: A historic fort symbolizing Bharatpur’s royal legacy.

• Government Museum: Exhibits artifacts from the region’s history.

• Deeg Palace: Stunning palace complex near Bharatpur.

• Fatehpur Sikri: UNESCO World Heritage Site, 22 km away.

• Agra: Home to the Taj Mahal, just 55 km from the park.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1. Where is Keoladeo Ghana National Park located?
It is located in Bharatpur district, Rajasthan, near the Golden Triangle route connecting Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur.

Q2. What is Keoladeo Ghana National Park famous for?
It is famous for being a birdwatcher’s paradise, housing hundreds of migratory birds, including the rare Siberian Crane.

Q3. When is the best time to visit the park?
Between October and March, when migratory birds arrive from around the world.

Q4. Are safaris available in Keoladeo?
Yes, you can explore the park via rickshaws, bicycles, and walking trails guided by local naturalists.

Q5. What are the accommodation options near the park?
Several options are available — forest lodges, eco-resorts, and budget hotels near Bharatpur town.

Q6. Is Keoladeo suitable for families and kids?
Absolutely. The park’s peaceful environment, short trails, and easy accessibility make it perfect for families.

Q7. How long does it take to explore the park?
A typical visit lasts 3–4 hours, but avid birdwatchers often spend an entire day inside.

Travel Tips

• Carry binoculars and a good camera for birdwatching.

• Visit early morning for the best sightings and lighting.

• Hire local rickshaw pullers — they are knowledgeable bird guides.

• Avoid loud noises or littering inside the park.

• Carry water, sunscreen, and a hat during summer months.

Conclusion

Keoladeo Ghana National Park is a true jewel in India’s ecological crown — where wetlands come alive with thousands of wings fluttering under the golden sky. Whether you’re an ornithologist, photographer, or nature enthusiast, a visit to Bharatpur’s bird sanctuary promises unforgettable encounters with nature’s finest creations.