Chintamoni Kar Bird Sanctuary (CKBS), located in Narendrapur near Kolkata, is one of West Bengal’s most beautiful and biodiverse green zones. Widely known as “Kayaler Bagan”, this sanctuary is a peaceful retreat for birdwatchers, butterfly lovers, photographers, and nature enthusiasts.
Spread over 17 acres, CKBS may be small in size but is incredibly rich in wildlife, dense vegetation, and photo-friendly landscapes—making it one of Kolkata’s most beloved nature escapes.
Wildlife & Bird Diversity
Chintamoni Kar Bird Sanctuary is home to over 150 bird species, both resident and migratory.
⭐ Commonly Spotted Birds
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Oriental Magpie Robin
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White-throated Kingfisher
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Black Drongo
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Little Egret
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Brahminy Kite
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Rose-ringed Parakeet
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Red-vented Bulbul
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Barbet species
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Sunbirds
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Pond Heron
🦋 Butterflies & Other Fauna
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Plain Tiger
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Common Jezebel
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Blue Mormon
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Common Crow
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Grass Yellow
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Dragonflies & damselflies
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Small reptiles and forest insects
🌴 Rich Flora
The sanctuary is filled with:
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Orchids
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Wildflowers
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Bamboo thickets
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Fruit trees
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Medicinal plants
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Water bodies filled with aquatic vegetation
CKBS is especially popular for its photogenic forest tunnels and shaded woodland trails.
Conservation Importance
Chintamoni Kar Bird Sanctuary plays a crucial ecological role:
✔ Protects Kolkata’s rapidly shrinking natural forests
✔ Serves as an urban biodiversity hotspot
✔ Critical for preserving native bird and butterfly species
✔ Acts as a natural carbon sink
✔ Supports conservation research, eco-education & awareness
✔ Maintains groundwater levels in the region
Its protection is vital for safeguarding the city’s ecological balance.
Timings & Entry
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Timings: 7:00 AM – 5:30 PM
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Best Time: November to February (highest bird activity)
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Entry Fee: Nominal charges applicable
Things to Do
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Birdwatching
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Macro photography (butterflies, flowers, insects)
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Nature walks in shaded trails
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Wildlife observation in quiet zones
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Picnic-friendly areas outside sanctuary boundary
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Guided photography tours during winters
How to Reach
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Location: Narendrapur, South 24 Parganas
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Nearest Metro: Kavi Nazrul (Garia)
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Nearest Railway Station: Sonarpur Junction
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Nearest Airport: Kolkata International Airport (25 km)
Very well-connected via Kolkata suburban routes.
Nearby Attractions
Enhance your visit with these nearby places:
1. Narendrapur Ramakrishna Mission (2 km)
A peaceful educational campus with gardens and temples.
2. Garia Market (3 km)
Perfect for local shopping and street food.
3. Rabindra Sarobar Lake (12 km)
A scenic lake popular for morning walks and birdwatching.
4. Science City Kolkata (14 km)
Interactive science museum & entertainment complex.
5. Eco Park New Town (25 km)
Kolkata’s largest urban park with boating, gardens & activities.
Best Time to Visit
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Winter (November–February): Peak bird activity, ideal for photographers
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Monsoon: Lush greenery and butterfly sightings
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Summer: Fewer birds but good for shaded nature walks
FAQ – Chintamoni Kar Bird Sanctuary
1. Why is CKBS famous?
It is famous for its bird diversity, butterfly population, orchids, and peaceful forest trails inside Kolkata.
2. How long does it take to explore the sanctuary?
Around 1.5 to 2 hours.
3. Can I take cameras inside?
Yes, photography is allowed, and the sanctuary is very popular among nature photographers.
4. Is it suitable for kids and families?
Yes, CKBS is a safe, quiet, and family-friendly nature spot.
5. Is parking available?
Yes, parking is available near the entrance.
People Also Ask (PAA)
Is Chintamoni Kar Bird Sanctuary worth visiting?
Absolutely—especially during winter when bird species are abundant.
What is the best time for birdwatching in CKBS?
Early morning from November to February.
Are guided tours available?
Local photography guides occasionally operate during peak season.
Is CKBS a good spot for butterfly watching?
Yes, it is one of the best butterfly hotspots near Kolkata.
Conclusion
Chintamoni Kar Bird Sanctuary is a refreshing natural oasis just outside Kolkata—perfect for those who want a quiet escape into nature. With its diverse birdlife, thriving butterflies, rich vegetation, and serene forest trails, CKBS promises an enriching experience for wildlife lovers, photographers, and families alike.
Whether you're planning a peaceful weekend outing or a dedicated birdwatching trip, CKBS is a destination you don’t want to miss.
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