​Bird sanctuaries in India that will soon welcome migratory birds and the best time to visit them

It’ll soon be that time of the year when we start seeing new winged visitors around us. Yes, the winter migratory birds are just around the corner, with some already here in India, and some yet to come. India, with its diverse ecosystems ranging from wetlands to forests, is a haven for birdwatchers, especially during the winter months (October to March) when millions of migratory birds arrive from regions like Siberia, Europe, and Central Asia. The reason why these birds come to visit us is because they are in search of a warmer wintering spot. For food and offspring, our winter is perfect for them. As they escape harsh northern winters, they make some of India’s popular bird sanctuaries their home for a few months. Here is a list of top bird sanctuaries across India preparing to welcome these winged visitors in the 2025 winter season.

Located in Bharatpur, approximately 200 km from Jaipur, Keoladeo Bird Sanctuary is one of India’s finest bird sanctuaries, and also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This bird sanctuary is home to over 370 species of birds, including migratory birds like the Siberian crane, bar-headed goose, and ruddy shelduck. Some of the popular winter migrants are greater flamingos, northern pintails, ruffs, and Eurasian wigeons. November to February is the best time to see migratory birds in Keoladeo Bird Sanctuary.

Chilika Lake is located near Puri, and is Asia’s largest brackish water lagoon, spanning 1,100 sq km. This vast lake and its surroundings attracts over 900,000 migratory birds annually, including flamingos, herons, and white-bellied sea eagles. Nalabana Island is a key birdwatching spot. Winter season (November to February) is the best time to spot visitors like the greater flamingos, greylag geese, purple moorhens, and pied avocets.

Located in Gurgaon, Sultanpur National Park is the closest national park near Delhi. It makes for an interesting day trip. The park is located just approximately 48 km from Delhi. Sultanpur National Park hosts over 250 species of birds, with over 100 migratory ones in winter, including Siberian cranes and rosy pelicans.

Located approximately 64 km from Ahmedabad, Nal Sarovar Bird Sanctuary near Sanand Village, is a 120-sq-km wetland, home to over 250 species. The birds include flamingos, pelicans, cranes, greater flamingos, spoonbills, coots, and Eurasian wigeons and more. Interestingly, the park is Gujarat's largest wetland sanctuary and a key wintering ground[ for these birds.

Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary is located near Mysore, approximately 16 km from the city. It is one of the best day trips when in the city, perfect for a meaningful and enjoyable family outing as well. This sanctuary, with six islets on the Kaveri River, is a nesting haven for migratory birds like painted storks, spoonbills, and herons. There are boat rides that one must try at least once. Visit Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary for river terns, white ibis, and openbill storks. The best time to visit the sanctuary is from November to February.

Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary is just 75 km from Chennai, and it makes for a great day trip when visiting the city. Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary is India’s oldest water bird sanctuary, and it covers 30 hectares, and hosts over 40,000 birds, including 26 rare species. It is also a Ramsar site since 2022, Visit this sanctuary for pintails, garganeys, grey wagtails, and blue-winged teals.

Located in Kangra district, approximately 250 km from Chandigarh Airport, Pong Dam Lake is a man-made reservoir that attracts over 220 species of birds including bar-headed geese and northern pintails! Another best thing about this site is that it is set against a stunning Himalayan backdrop. Expect to see bar-headed geese, common teals, and black-necked grebes from October to March.

Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is located on Vembanad Lake, approximately 12 km from Kothamangalam. This 14-acre sanctuary and the backwaters hosts several migratory birds, which when combined with the unique houseboat experiences, can become one of the most memorable holidays you will ever experience in India. Egrets and cormorants will keep you busy in the mornings, as your houseboat takes you on a peaceful tour of the sanctuary. The best time to visit Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is from November to February.