About Udhwa Lake Bird Sanctuary
Udhwa Lake Bird Sanctuary is Jharkhand's only bird sanctuary, located near Udhwa village in Sahibganj district. Spread over 5.65 sq km, it comprises two interconnected oxbow lakes, Pataura and Berhale, formed on the floodplain of the Ganges. Notable for winter migratory birds including species from Siberia and Europe, it supports diverse resident waterbirds and wetland ecology, making it an important birding and nature destination in eastern Jharkhand.
Visitors guide
Visitors can expect a tranquil wetland landscape with two large shallow lakes, Pataura and Berhale, surrounded by agricultural fields and floodplain vegetation. The sanctuary offers open water, marshes and watchtowers for observing resident and migratory waterbirds. In winter, large flocks of migratory birds gather on the lakes. Facilities are basic, with earthen paths and viewing points, providing a quiet nature and birdwatching experience.
Key highlights
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Jharkhand's only bird sanctuary covering 5.65 sq km
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Comprises two interconnected oxbow lakes - Pataura Lake and Berhale Lake on the Ganga floodplain
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Important wintering ground for migratory birds from Siberia, Europe and the Himalayas
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Rich diversity of resident waterbirds including herons, egrets, cormorants and kingfishers
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Watchtowers and viewpoints for birdwatching and photography
History of Udhwa Lake Bird Sanctuary
Notified as a Bird Sanctuary in 1991, Udhwa Lake is the only bird sanctuary in the state of Jharkhand. The two lakes, Pataura (155 hectares) and Berhale (410 hectares), are oxbow lakes formed due to the changing course of the River Ganga and are interconnected by a channel. It has been identified as an Important Bird Area and is known for its wetland ecosystem.
Route
| By air | Nearest major airports are Birsa Munda Airport, Ranchi and Jay Prakash Narayan International Airport, Patna, both at considerable distance requiring onward road/rail journey |
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