About Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary
Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary is a large wetland bird sanctuary centered on Nalsarovar Lake, about 60 km southwest of Ahmedabad in Gujarat. Spread over 120.82 sq km, it is Gujarat's largest wetland bird sanctuary and a designated Ramsar site. The shallow lake with 36 islands attracts over 200 species of resident and migratory birds in winter, including flamingos, pelicans and cranes, making it a prominent destination for birdwatching and boating.
Visitors guide
Visitors can expect a vast shallow freshwater lake dotted with 36 small islands, surrounded by marshes and open water. The main experience is a boat safari on traditional wooden boats through the lake to observe resident and migratory birds at close range. The landscape is flat wetland with reeds and open sky, with watchtowers and interpretation facilities near the entry. The sanctuary is tranquil and focused on nature observation and photography.
Key highlights
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Largest wetland bird sanctuary in Gujarat covering 120.82 sq km with Nalsarovar Lake and 36 islands
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Designated Ramsar Wetland Site attracting over 200 bird species including flamingos, pelicans, storks, cranes and ducks
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Boat safari on the shallow lake for close birdwatching and photography
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Seasonal congregation of migratory birds arriving from Central Asia and Siberia in winter
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Interpretation centre and watchtowers for visitor orientation and bird observation
History of Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary
Declared as a Bird Sanctuary in April 1969 under the Gujarat Forest Department covering 120.82 sq km. Designated as a Ramsar Wetland Site of International Importance in 2012 due to its ecological significance as a representative wetland supporting diverse waterbird populations.
Culture & Context
The wetland supports traditional livelihoods of local communities including boating and fishing, and is an important site for nature education and eco-tourism in Gujarat, reflecting the region's wetland conservation heritage.
Route
| By air |
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