Keoladeo National Park / Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary, Fatehpur Sikri - Timings, Entry Fee, Safari Cost, Safari Booking, Best Time to Visit

About Keoladeo National Park / Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary

At a distance of 27 Km from Fatehpur Sikri Railway Station and 57 Km from Agra, the Keoladeo National Park formerly known as the Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary is situated in Bharatpur, Rajasthan. It is one of the finest bird parks in the world, and among the top wildlife places to visit near Delhi.

The word Ghana translates to dense, indicating the thick forest present. This national park is home to thousands of native, resident, and migratory birds, particularly during the winter months when various species migrate to the Indian subcontinent to avoid the severe winters experienced further north in Eurasia. A minimum of 400 bird species have been recorded or sighted within the national park. Keoladeo Ghana National Park also features a human-made regulated wetland, providing a needed source of hydration for animals in this drier region of the subcontinent. The reserve also protects Bharatpur settlements from flash floods and provides ample pastures for the locals' cattle and livestock.

History of Keoladeo National Park / Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary

Keoladeo National Park is situated around an artificial wetland and was established by Maharaja Suraj Mal of Bharatpur. Formerly serving as the private duck shooting reserve for the Maharajas of Bharatpur and British officials, it was designated as the Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary in 1956 thanks to the efforts of ornithologist Salim Ali. It was officially recognized as a protected sanctuary in 1971 and was designated as Keoladeo National Park on 10 March 1982. Owing to its remarkable avian biodiversity, it was also recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985.

Flora & Fauna in Keoladeo National Park / Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary

Spanning an area of 29 sq. km, Keoladeo Ghana National Park, commonly referred to as Ghana, features a diverse landscape comprising dry grasslands, woodlands, woodland swamps, and wetlands. This variety of habitats supports 366 bird species, including Cranes, Spoonbills, Herons, Pelicans, and the endangered Siberian Cranes. Each year, thousands of migratory waterfowl flock to the park for breeding and other activities. In addition to the numerous bird species, the park is home to at least 20 species of fish, 70 species of reptiles and amphibians, and 50 species of mammals, along with over 60 distinct species of Lepidopterans, in addition to more than 1,000 species of invertebrates. Nearly 400 plant species have been recorded within the park. During the cooler winter months, it is also possible to observe large Indian Pythons.

The wetlands of Keoladeo National Park primarily receive their water inflow from Ajan Bund, which itself is supplied by the Banganga and Gambhir rivers. Within the park, there are 58 recorded fish species, of which 37 enter the park via the water from Ajan Bund, while 6 species are established breeding residents. Among these, 7 species are considered new, having been reported after 1995. The African catfish is recognized as one of the most hazardous invasive aquatic species present in the park.

Things to do in Keoladeo National Park / Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary

Going on a Deep Jungle Safari

Safari is the most convenient way to discover the vegetation and wildlife in the Keoladeo National Park area. Rickshaw rides serve as the primary mode of safari within the national park. The rickshaw pullers navigate you directly through the core of the forests, possessing extensive knowledge about the avian species. Additionally, golf cart rides, electric vans, and horse-drawn carriage rides are offered. Visitors can also rent bicycles at the entrance to further investigate the National Park.

Enjoying a Calming Boat Ride

Visitors have the opportunity to enjoy a boat ride in Keoladeo National Park Lake. These boat rides are generally available for a limited duration following the monsoon season when the water levels are appropriate, and they are not offered during the summer months. Each boat ride usually lasts approximately one hour. Whether taken in the early morning or late evening, the boat ride provides an unforgettable experience. You will encounter a variety of species of diverse flora and fauna and get close to the water birds and fish inhabiting this wildlife sanctuary.

Visiting Keoladeo Shiva Temple

The Keoladeo Temple is situated within the Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary and can be conveniently reached from the main entrance by bicycle or on foot. This modest temple is dedicated to Keola Dev (Lord Shiva), after whom the national park is named. It is regarded as one of the oldest temples in the region. It is said that the Shivalinga in the temple was discovered by the King of Bharatpur.

Keoladeo National Park / Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary Timings

Monday: 6 AM - 6 PM in summer, & 7:30 AM - 5 PM in winter
Tuesday: 6 AM - 6 PM in summer, & 7:30 AM - 5 PM in winter
Wednesday: 6 AM - 6 PM in summer, & 7:30 AM - 5 PM in winter
Thursday: 6 AM - 6 PM in summer, & 7:30 AM - 5 PM in winter
Friday: 6 AM - 6 PM in summer, & 7:30 AM - 5 PM in winter
Saturday: 6 AM - 6 PM in summer, & 7:30 AM - 5 PM in winter
Sunday: 6 AM - 6 PM in summer, & 7:30 AM - 5 PM in winter

Keoladeo National Park / Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary Entry Fee

Although the Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary remains open year-round, the best time for a visit is during the winter months. Nevertheless, the period from August to November is ideal for observing resident breeding birds, while October to February is preferable for migrant birds. During this season, birds from Central Asia, Siberia, and China migrate to this sanctuary, allowing visitors to enjoy their chirping and nesting activities. The best times for a safari are at dawn and dusk. However, it is advisable to avoid visiting during the peak summer months, as the heat can be excessively uncomfortable for thorough exploration of the area.

Best Time to Visit Keoladeo National Park / Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary

Entry: Rs. 136 for Indians, Rs. 500 for Foreigners, Rs. 450 for Video Camera, Rs. 150 for Bicycle, Rs. 1600 - Rs. 2400 for E-Rickshaw, Rs. 300 - Rs. 600 for Boat

How to Reach Keoladeo National Park / Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary

The closest airport to Bharatpur is Agra Airport, situated 53 Km away, with connections to Delhi, Varanasi, Khajuraho, Gorakhpur, Jabalpur, Rajkot, and Jamnagar. Bharatpur has its own railway station, ensuring good connectivity with Agra, Jaipur, Delhi, and Mumbai. The nearest major train station is Agra Cantonment Railway, located approximately 57 Km from Bharatpur. It is also well-served by bus routes to Agra, Jaipur, Kota, and surrounding towns. Alternatively, taxis can be hired from Agra city to travel to Bharatpur. Personal vehicles are not allowed within the park. At the entrance, tourists can find electric vans, cycle rickshaws, tongas, and boats available for transportation around the park.