Introduction of Keoladeo National Park

Keoladeo National Park, also known as Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary, is like a real-life fairy tale forest located in Rajasthan, India. It’s a special place where birds, animals, fish and plants live together in harmony, creating a symphony of colors and sounds. The park was actually created by people many years ago. It was first used as a hunting ground, but later it was turned into a bird sanctuary to protect the birds and their home. Today, it’s a place where we can all go to enjoy nature and learn about the wonderful world of birds.

• A Feathered Haven: Over 370 different bird species visit Keoladeo, making it a super popular spot for birdwatchers. It’s like a giant bird convention!
• Wet and Wild: Keoladeo is a wetland, which means it’s a mix of land and water. This swampy area is the perfect hangout for all sorts of wildlife.
• Once a Hunting Ground: Believe it or not, Keoladeo used to be a place where Maharajas and British rulers hunted birds. Luckily, today it’s a safe haven for these feathered friends.

History & Geographical of Keoladeo National Park

History: Fast forward to the 1950s, people realized how important this place was for birds. So, in 1956, they turned it into a safe haven for feathered friends a bird sanctuary! In 1982, on March 10th, it became an even more special place – a national park! That’s what Keoladeo National Park was like way back in the 18th century! Back then, kings called Maharajas used the area for hunting. Keoladeo National Park has so many different types of birds, it’s like a super important spot for them! Because of this amazing variety of birds, they even gave the park a special title in 1985 – a UNESCO World Heritage Site! This means it’s recognized around the world as a place worth protecting.

Geography: Keoladeo National Park is in Bharatpur, Rajasthan, India. It’s about 2 kilometers southeast of Bharatpur and 50 kilometers west of Agra. The park is about 29 square kilometers big. A third of it is wetland. It has different kinds of places like dry grasslands, forests, swamps, and wetlands that come and go with the seasons. It’s at the eastern edge of an area that slowly turns into a dry desert.

The park has lots of different animals and plants. There are many kinds of birds, fish, reptiles, and mammals living there. It’s cool because there are also lots of butterflies and moths, plus more than a thousand other tiny creatures. And there are nearly 400 kinds of plants there too!

Keoladeo National Park Famous Animals And Birds

Birds in keoladeo National Park:

• A symphony of feathers: The park is a great place for people who love watching birds. There are more than 370 different kinds of birds there. In winter, lots of birds come to stay for a while, especially ones like the Siberian Crane. These birds are in danger of disappearing forever. You might also spot pelicans, wagtails, eagles, spotted bill ducks, white-breasted kingfishers, partridges, honey buzzards, rose-ringed parakeets, and plenty of others.

Animals in keoladeo National Park:

• Animals: Keoladeo National Park is home to a variety of animals. Some of the mammals you might see include the Nilgai (Bluebull), Sambar, Chital (Spotted Deer), Wild Boar, and Rhesus Macaque. Other animals that inhabit the park include the Golden Jackal, Black-naped Hare, and the Smooth-coated Otter. You might also come across reptiles such as the Common Cobra and Indian Rock Python. visit for more Click Here

Keoladeo National Park Ramsar site

Keoladeo National Park also called Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary, is a special place. It’s like a VIP among wetlands because it’s known as a Ramsar site, which is a big deal for wetlands around the world. This title was given to the park on October 1st, 1981. Imagine it as a collection of ten man-made lakes that come and go with the seasons. This park is like a hotel for birds. They come here to breed, rest, and migrate. But it’s not just for birds; it’s also home to different kinds of animals like deer, cats, and monkeys. There are also many plants, fish, and reptiles living here. However, there’s a bit of a problem. Back in 1990, the park got into some trouble. There wasn’t enough water, and animals were eating too much grass.

Keoladeo National Park Safari Zones & Types

Cycle Rickshaw Safari: Cycle rickshaws are pedal-powered, creating minimal noise pollution. This is a popular choice among visitors. The rickshaw pullers are trained in bird watching and can guide you through the park, helping you spot and identify various bird species. They’ll not only pedal you around but also point out interesting birds, animals, and plants, making your safari an educational experience. Summer Timings (April to September): Sunrise (around 6:30 AM) to Sunset (around 6:30 PM). Winter Timings (October to March): 7:00 AM to 5:30 PM

Bicycle Safari: If you prefer a more active exploration, you can opt for a bicycle safari. This allows you to move at your own pace and spend as much time as you want in different areas of the park. Cycling through the park’s well-marked trails allows visitors to cover more ground while enjoying the serene beauty of the wetlands and woodlands. Some bicycle rental shops near the park entrance might open a little earlier than official park timings to catch the first wave of visitors. Summer Timings (April to September): Bicycles can be rented from sunrise (around 6:30 AM) to sunset (around 6:30 PM). Winter Timings (October to March): Bicycles are available from 7:00 AM to 5:30 PM

Horse Tonga Safari: Here’s a special way to see the park. Riding a horse tonga safari is like stepping back in time. These carriages are made to be eco-friendly, so you can explore the park without harming it. It’s a cool and traditional adventure!

Boat Safari: You can go on a boat safari in the park when it’s the rainy season, called the monsoon. During this time, the trails in the park get filled with water, and you can ride through them on a boat. But remember, these boat rides only happen for a little while after the rainy season because the water levels change. So, you might only get to go on a boat safari for a few months after the rain.

Jeep Safari: If you want to cover larger areas of the park in a shorter time, the jeep safari is a good option. To minimize noise and pollution, motorized vehicles like jeeps aren’t permitted inside the park. But fear not, adventure awaits with eco-friendly exploration options like cycling and rickshaw safaris!

Walking Safari: Adventurous visitors can choose to explore the park on foot along designated walking trails. Walking is also permitted inside the Sanctuary, allowing you to explore the park at your own pace. his allows for the closest connection with nature and the chance to truly immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of Keoladeo.

Each safari option has its own unique advantages and allows you to explore different habitats within the park, such as woodlands, grasslands, wetlands, and woodland swamps. So, depending on your interest and preference, you can choose the safari that suits you best.

Keoladeo National Park Safari Booking & Prices

No Online Booking: You can’t drive cars or bikes around Keoladeo, so you can’t book a safari online.

Booking on Arrival: When you arrive at Keoladeo National Park, you don’t need to book anything in advance! They have a special area at the park entrance where you can choose how you want to explore. It’s like a one-stop shop for your safari adventure. One booth lets you rent cycle rickshaws, which are like bikes with a passenger seat attached. They’re a quiet and fun way to see the park! Another booth has horse-drawn carriages, perfect for a relaxed ride through the park. And finally, there’s a booth where you can buy tickets to explore the park on foot.

• Price Transparency: Prices for safaris are clearly listed at the booking counters. Pick what works for you!
• Entry Fee: The park entry fee varies for Indian and foreign visitors. Expect to pay somewhere between ₹75 and ₹200 (Indian Rupee).
• Cycle Rickshaw Safari: This is a popular option. Prices typically range from ₹400 to ₹600 (per rickshaw) for a few hours of exploration, depending on the duration and distance covered.
• Horse-Drawn Carriage Safari: For a more traditional feel, horse-drawn carriages are available. Pricing might be similar to cycle rickshaws, ranging from ₹400 to ₹600 (per carriage) for a few hours.
• Walking Safari: The most basic option is exploring the park on foot along designated trails. You’ll only need to pay the park entry fee for this.
• Timings: Summer Timings (April to September): Bicycles can be rented from sunrise (around 6:30 AM) to sunset (around 6:30 PM) .Winter Timings (October to March): Bicycles are available from 7:00 AM to 5:30 PM

Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary

The Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary, now called Keoladeo National Park, is a famous place for birds in Bharatpur, Rajasthan, India. It became a protected area in 1971 and upgraded to a national park on March 10, 1982. Because it has so many different kinds of birds, it’s also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This park is like a home for over 270 types of birds, and it keeps other animals safe too. People from all over the world come here to watch birds, take photos of wildlife, and enjoy nature. Long ago, it used to be a place where kings went hunting. But now, it’s amazing to see how it has changed into a place that looks after animals and nature.

Best Time to visit Keoladeo National Park

• Birdwatching Extravaganza (October to March): Winter is the best time to see birds here because it’s cooler. During these months, tons of birds fly all the way from Siberia and Europe to visit Keoladeo, joining the birds that already live there. So basically, it’s like a giant bird party! This is your best chance to see all sorts of different birds in one place, making it a birdwatcher’s dream!

• Monsoon (July to September): The park gets tons of rain, making everything super lush and green with blooming flowers and all sorts of plants growing wild. It’s like a makeover for the park! While you can still visit the park during this time, some areas might be a bit flooded and tricky to get to because of all the rain. But hey, the upside is you might see even more birds and animals out and about enjoying the fresh rain and new plant life.

• Resident Birdwatching & Pleasant Weather (August to November): If you’d like to focus on the resident bird species and enjoy comfortable weather, this period is ideal. The summer crowds have thinned, and the resident birds are actively breeding, making them easier to spot.

• Avoid the Heat (April to July): The summer months in Keoladeo can be quite hot and humid. While some birds are still present, the overall experience might be less enjoyable due to the weather.

Best Resorts & Hotels Nearby Keoladeo National Park

Here are some of the best resorts and hotels near Keoladeo National Park that offer a comfortable stay and excellent service, allowing you to fully enjoy your visit to this incredible bird sanctuary:

1. The Bagh Resort – This fancy 5-star hotel gives you a quiet escape surrounded by beautiful gardens. You can chill out by the pool, treat yourself to Ayurvedic spa treatments, or check out the wildlife sanctuary nearby. The staff is super helpful, and everything at the hotel is really nice, so you’ll have a great time here!

2. Regenta Resort Bharatpur – This heritage resort boasts a blend of colonial and Mughal architecture. Explore the on-site museum, savor delicious meals at the multi-cuisine restaurants, or take a refreshing dip in the pool. The resort’s proximity to the park makes it ideal for birdwatching enthusiasts.

3. Hotel Laxmi Vilas Palace – Experience the grandeur of a bygone era at this heritage hotel, a converted palace built in 1882. Take a dip in the historic swimming pool, wander through the beautiful gardens, or enjoy a royal dining experience. The hotel’s old-world charm and impeccable service will transport you back in time.

4. Amritara Chandra Mahal Haveli – his haveli (fancy word for an old Indian mansion) is like stepping back in time. The rooms are comfy and decorated with cool carvings. They even have a restaurant with yummy food you’ll love. you can take a yoga class in their peaceful courtyard. It’s the perfect place to relax after a fun day exploring the park!

5. The Grand Barso – A Luxury Heritage – This cool old hotel mixes modern stuff you love with traditional style. Think comfy beds with flat-screen TVs alongside beautiful old furniture. Want to relax after a day exploring? Chill by the pool, get a massage at the spa (think of a fancy muscle rub!), or stuff your face with yummy food at their restaurants (noodles, pizza, all that good stuff!). Plus, the hotel’s super close to the park and the staff is awesome, making it a perfect spot to stay for your Keoladeo adventure.

Popular Visiting Places Nearby Keoladeo National park

1. Lohagarh Fort: This imposing 18th-century fort, also known as the Iron Fort, is a must-visit for history buffs. Hike up for a breathtaking view of the whole city and everything around it!

2. Government Museum Bharatpur: Step back in time and explore the rich history and culture of the region at this museum. The museum houses a collection of artifacts, weapons, and paintings that offer a glimpse into Bharatpur’s royal past.

3. Banke Bihari Temple: This intricately carved temple dedicated to Lord Krishna is a popular pilgrimage site. Immerse yourself in the spiritual atmosphere and marvel at the temple’s architectural beauty.

4. Deeg Palace: Take a day trip to Deeg, a former royal town known for its impressive palaces and gardens. Explore the Bharatpur rulers’ summer palaces adorned with beautiful murals and intricate carvings.

5. Band Baretha: This scenic area on the outskirts of Bharatpur offers a welcome change of pace. Enjoy a leisurely boat ride on the lake, have a picnic lunch amidst nature, or spot some local birds.

6. Ganga Mandir: A short distance from the park, Ganga Mandir is a striking temple dedicated to Goddess Ganga. Built in white marble, the temple features intricate carvings and architectural brilliance, attracting devotees and tourists alike.

How To Reach Keoladeo National park

By Air: The nearest airport is Agra Airport (AGR) located about 56 kilometers (35 miles) from Bharatpur. You can then take a taxi, cab service, or rickshaw from the airport to reach the park.

By Train: The closest train station is Bharatpur Junction, which has a cool nickname “BPN.” The best part? It’s only 5 kilometers away from the park entrance, which is like a short car ride or a fun bike ride! Trains from big cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Jaipur, and Agra all stop at BPN, so you can travel there easily. Once you get to the station, you can grab a taxi, rickshaw (like a small, pulled taxi!), or even a cycle rickshaw (a bike taxi!) to take you straight to the park entrance.

By Road: Getting to Keoladeo National Park is easy because it’s connected to big cities in India by a good road. National Highway 11 links Delhi, Agra, Jaipur, and other places to Bharatpur where the park is. You have options to travel there – you can catch a bus or rent a car. If you’re looking to save money, you can hop on a public bus run by the state transport. But if you want more freedom in your travel, taxis or renting a car is the way to go.

Additional Tips:

• If you’re visiting Keoladeo during busy times (like summer break for everyone!), it’s a super smart idea to reserve a taxi or rent a car online before your trip. This way, you won’t get there and be stuck waiting for a ride, especially since taxis might be all booked up. Just hop online and book your ride ahead of time – easy peasy!
• If you’re using ride-sharing apps like Uber or Ola, their availability in Bharatpur might be limited. It’s best to rely on taxis, rickshaws, or pre-booked car rentals.
• Getting to Keoladeo National Park using public transportation is simple and cost-effective. But once you’re there, the best way to explore the park is by using eco-friendly options like bicycle rickshaws, horse-drawn carriages, or walking along specific trails. These choices let you move around the park at a relaxed pace, increasing your chances of seeing wildlife along the way.

Conclusion Of Keoladeo National park

Keoladeo National Park isn’t just about birds; it’s a success story for protecting nature. It used to be a place for hunting, but now it’s a home to more than 370 bird species, making it a fantastic spot for bird lovers everywhere. This park is crucial for lots of different plants and animals too. Its past as a hunting spot for kings and British rulers adds an interesting twist to its tale. Nowadays, the park promotes responsible tourism, focusing on being eco-friendly and sustainable.

There are three awesome ways to see the park: cycle rickshaw, horse-drawn carriage, or even on foot. Each way lets you experience the park in a different way. feeling the breeze rustle the leaves as you pass by brightly colored flowers. Listen closely – you might hear a symphony of bird calls all around you! Keep your eyes peeled But Keoladeo National Park isn’t just cool for animals and plants – it’s important for people too! The park has a rich history and culture that’s super interesting to learn about.

Best National Parks in India

1. jim corbett national park
2. Pench national park
3. kaziranga national park
4. Kuno national park
5. Ranthambore national park

FAQ’s of keoladeo National park

Q: What’s Keoladeo National Park famous for?
Ans: Keolaeo National Park is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with over 370 species calling it home!

Q: When is the best time to visit?
ans: For the most birds, visit between October and March. August to November offers pleasant weather and resident bird sightings. Avoid the hot summer months (April to July).

Q: How do I explore the park?
ans: Ditch the jeep! Keoladeo prioritizes eco-friendly options. Explore by cycle rickshaw, horse-drawn carriage, or walk the designated trails.

Q: Are there any fees to enter?
Ans: Yes, there’s a park entry fee. Prices vary for Indian and foreign visitors.

Q: How can I book a safari?
Ans: Unlike most parks, Keoladeo doesn’t have online booking. Book your rickshaw ride, carriage ride, or walking permit upon arrival at the park entrance.

Q: Where can I stay near the park?
Ans: There are many places to stay near Keoladeo National Park! you could choose from heritage hotels with a traditional feel, resorts with modern amenities, or even budget-friendly guesthouses.

Q: What else can I do near the park?
Ans: Explore forts, museums, temples, or take a boat ride at Band Baretha for a change of pace.