Chhari Dhand Wetland Conservation Reserve

Chhari Dhand Wetland Conservation Reserve is a seasonal desert wetland in Kutch district, Gujarat, near Fulay village about 80 km from Bhuj. Notified in 2008 as Gujarat's first Conservation Reserve, it covers about 227 sq km of shallow lake, marshes and surrounding thorn scrub. It is an Important Bird Area known for large congregations of migratory waterfowl, cranes, raptors and desert wildlife, attracting birdwatchers in winter when water is present.

Visitors can expect a vast, shallow seasonal wetland surrounded by arid thorn scrub, grassland and desert plains of the Banni region. When inundated after monsoon, the wetland hosts thousands of migratory and resident birds. There are no major built structures; viewing is from earthen bunds, tracks and open margins. Access is remote and requires prior forest department permission, typically with a local guide. The experience is focused on birdwatching, photography and nature observation in a quiet, natural setting with minimal facilities.

Chhari Dhand was declared as a Conservation Reserve in 2008 under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, becoming the first Conservation Reserve in Gujarat. The wetland has long been recognized as an Important Bird Area and traditionally used by local pastoral communities for grazing and water.