Owing to its varied geography, climate and presence of a long coastline, India is the home to several species of birds. Not only can you spot numerous regional birds here, but scores of migratory birds also make India, their temporary habitat. Bird sanctuaries in India are therefore a hot spot for nature lovers and birdwatchers.

With more than 1200 species of avifauna present in India, it has forever been one of the favored destinations for tourists. Among the most distinguished bird sanctuaries in India, the following are the most visited ones:

Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary, Rajasthan

Situated in Rajasthan in Northern India, Bharatpur Bird sanctuary is an exclusive reserve for rare avifauna and Indian Wildlife. It is a Ramsar site under the Ramsar Convention, and hence is also a World Heritage site.

Over 350 species of birds can be seen in this 29 Sq Km Park. One third of these are migrants, who have made this sanctuary their wintering ground. Since Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary lies on the Central Asian Flyway of the Asia Pacific Global Migratory Flyway; it is a wintering ground for a large number of migratory water-bird that breeds in the Pale arctic region.

The endangered Siberian Crane (Grus leucogeranus) uses this bird sanctuary as its only wintering ground. Apart from this, you can also find several species of Pelicans, Cranes, Larks, Geese, Eagles, Hawks, Ducks, Shanks, Wagtails, Stints, Warblers, Flycatchers, Wheatears, Buntings and Pipits in this sanctuary.

Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, Kerala

The Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is spread across 14 acres of land around the Vembanad Lake, near the Backwaters. It is home to a large number of migratory birds like Flycatcher, Teal, Siberian Stork, Crane, Parrots and Wood Beetle. Apart from these, native birds like the Kingfisher, Heron, Egret, Owl, and Cuckoo are seen in plenty in this sanctuary.

The best way of viewing birds at Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is by riding a houseboat or motorboat. In case you want to experience the rustic rural touch, try to get hold of a local rice boat or fishing boat. These will help you to watch the birds at play without them being disturbed by the sounds of motor.

Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary, Karnataka

Traveling to Ranganathittu  Sanctuary for watching birds can be an exhilarating experience for you. Away from the busy schedule of fast passed life, spending a day amidst nature can be quiet rewarding.

This Bird Sanctuary is situated on the banks of the Kaveri River and is laden with rare avian species. It is a happy breeding ground for many migratory birds like Open Bill Storks, Spoonbills, Darters, Little Cormorants, White Ibis, Egret, Partridge, Heron, River Tern, Snake Bird, Stone Plougher and other exotic bird species, which flies all the way from Australia, Siberia and even North America. There are several local inhabitants like Peacocks and Kingfishers. Take a boats ride along the river to spot all these beautiful birds.

Chilka Lake Bird Sanctuary, Orissa

Covering an extensive area of 1100 Sq Km and situated to the south west of Puri, the Chilka Lake Bird Sanctuary is the largest brackish water lake in Asia. This sanctuary is a home to some of the most amazing avifauna of the world and hence attracts a large number of tourists. It has been reported that as many as 9 Lakh migratory birds fly to this bird sanctuary during winters. The commonest of birds in Chilka Lake are Geese, Eagle and Flamingoes. Apart from these the Jacana, the Purple Moorhen and the Herons are simply a delight to watch.

Boating in the crystal clear water of Chilka Lake to spot these beautiful creatures will surely be an enjoyable experience that you will cherish throughout your life.

Porbadar Bird Sanctuary, Gujarat

Porbandar Bird Sanctuary is situated in the heart of Porbandar city. Spread across an area of about 1 Sq. Km, this bird sanctuary is home to various rare and migratory species of birds. If you visit this sanctuary during winters you would get an opportunity to spot birds like Flamingos, Pelicans, Spoonbills, Avocets, Coots, Pintails, Little Cormorants, Little Grebes, Shovellers, Whistling Teals, Herons, Terns, Jacanas, Red Shanks and Ruffs to name a few.

So, pack your bags and take a wildlife tour to India at the earliest. And yes, do not forget to carry you camera with you. You would certainly love to capture every moment of bird watching in India with your camera and preserve their pictures for the rest of your life.