Keoladeo National Park

Keoladeo National Park – The Famous Bird Sanctuary of India

Indian land is a best example of natural beauty, wildlife & colourful birds. One of the most beautiful places to watch birds is Keoladeo National Park. Keoladeo is located in Rajasthan’s a small city which is called Bharatpur. It is known around the world for its rich birdlife and pleasant environment.

If you are someone who loves nature, birds, or photography, this park is the perfect place for you. It is also a great example of eco-tourism in India and is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site in India.

Where is keoladeo located?

Keoladeo National Park is located in Bharatpur (Rajasthan) at Agra – Jaipur highway. That’s why many people also call it the Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary & Bharatpur National Park. The park is located about:

55 km from Agra
180 km from Delhi
190 km from Jaipur

You can reach the park by car, train, or bus. From Bharatpur Junction railway station to keoladeo’s distance is 2 km , and it is well connected from major cities.

A Brief History

Previously, Keoladeo National Park was not a bird sanctuary. It was like a hunting ground for the rulars of Bharatpur. That time they used this park to hunt ducks & other birds for entertainment. For stop hunting in 1982, the government of India changed this place into a national park to protect the birds and nature.

In 1985, UNESCO declared Keoladeo as a World Heritage Site because of its great significance for bird conservation. Today, hunting is banned & only photography, sightseeing, and birdwatching are allowed.

What Makes This Park Special?

Keoladeo National Park is a home for more than 370 species of birds and other ground animals, including many nomadic birds that travel from cold countries like Siberia, China & Central Asia at the time of winter.

Some most popular birds you can see here:

Siberian Crane (very rare and special)
Painted Stork
Indian Peacock
Herons
Pelicans
Geese & Ducks
Eagles, owls & hawks

Besides birds, the park also has:

Spotted deer (chital)
Nilgai (blue bull)
Jackals
Wild boar
Pythons and other reptiles

This variety makes Keoladeo National Park not only a bird sanctuary, it is one of the best Indian bird sanctuaries for nature lovers.

The Natural Glory of this Park

Keoladeo is not only for birds—it is also full of natural beauty. The park has:

Wetlands
Lakes and ponds
Open grasslands
Forest patches

You can walk, drive a bicycle, or take the rickshaw ride inside & outside the park. The rickshaw drivers are trained guides. They can tell you names of birds and show you the best places to see them. You can also hire a naturalist guide if you want detailed knowledge.

Best Time to Visit Keoladeo

The best time to visit Keoladeo bird sanctuary is between October & March. That’s the time when nomadic birds come in India escape the cold. At this time the weather is also cool and enjoyable during these months, which make it perfect for walking or cycling.

Early morning & late afternoon are the best times for bird watching and photography.

Entry Fee & Timings

Entry Fee (Indians): ₹75 per person
Entry Fee (Non Indians): ₹500 per person

Timing:

At Winter: 6:00 AM – 5:00 PM
At Summer: 6:30 AM – 6:30 PM
Camera and Guide Charges: Extra

Rickshaws, bicycles, and guides are available at the park gate. You can hire them per hour.

Birdwatching and Photography Tips

Use a binocular or zoom camera for better viewing
Walk slowly and stay quiet
Wear earth-colored clothes to blend with nature
Avoid plastic and don’t feed the birds
Be patient and enjoy the sounds of nature

Places to Stay Near the Park

Bharatpur has many hotels and lodges for all types of travelers:

Budget hotels
Mid-range guesthouses
Luxury heritage hotels

Some popular places include:

The Bagh
Birders Inn
Hotel Sunbird
Laxmi Vilas Palace

Many of these places offer nature tours & birdwatching guides.

Why It is Important for Eco-Tourism

Eco-tourism in India is growing, and Keoladeo National Park is a Best example. It teaches visitors & tourists how to enjoy nature without harming it. Local people work as guides, rickshaw pullers & hotel staff. This gives them income & helps protect the park.

When tourists come, they help in two ways:

They learn about wildlife and conservation.
They support the local economy.

This balance between tourism and protection is what eco-tourism is all about.

Travel Tips

Carry water, snacks, and a cap
Don’t forget your camera and binoculars
Start early in the day for better bird sightings
Respect the rules and do not disturb wildlife
Keep your phone silent while inside the park

Conclusion

Keoladeo National Park is just not a bird sanctuary—it is a living classroom of nature. From colorful birds to quiet lakes, every part of this bird sanctury offers peace, beauty & learning. Whether you are an Indian or an international tourist, a trip to this bird sanctuary in Rajasthan will be one of your most memorable journeys.

So, pack your bags & binoculars and visit this wonderful UNESCO World Heritage Site in India. Let the birds welcome you with their songs!