Most sought-after birding destinations in India to witness the winter migration

Come winter, something extraordinary unfolds in the country’s forests, wetlands, grasslands, and mountain valleys. Migratory birds from as far as Siberia, Mongolia, and Africa make their long journey southward, finding refuge in India’s diverse habitats. Between November and February, the subcontinent turns into an avian paradise for birdwatchers and photographers. Whether you’re a seasoned birder or someone looking to witness the incredible migratory birds, these destinations promise a great time with one of nature’s greatest seasonal spectacles.

Earlier known as Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary, this UNESCO World Heritage Site, is often called the “birdwatcher’s capital of India.” The national park hosts over 370 species of birds every winter. Most notable ones being the Siberian rubythroats, bar-headed geese, demoiselle cranes, and painted storks. November to February is the best time to visit this park to see thousands of migratory birds.

Chilika Lake spans over 1,100 sq km, and is Asia’s largest brackish water lagoon and a major stopover for migratory birds on the Central Asian Flyway. The Nalabana Bird Sanctuary inside the lake is a hotspot. Every year, flamingos, white-bellied sea eagles, pelicans, and northern pintails visit the lake. Head to Mangalajodi village and interact with locals who were once bird poachers but now have turned into protectors.

What makes this national park so special is the fact that it is located just an hour’s drive from the very busy city of Delhi. Sultanpur is a small yet vibrant sanctuary that provides easy access to migratory birding, especially the winter visitors from Europe, Siberia, and Central Asia. Visit the park to spot northern shovelers, teals, rosy starlings, and common coots. Visit early morning or late afternoon to capture stunning reflections on the water.

If Rajasthan has Keoladeo, Maharashtra has Bhigwan. Located on the backwaters of Ujani Dam, Bhigwan is one of the most exciting places (bird-wise) in Maharashtra this time of the year. The region’s tranquil wetlands come alive with colourful avian visitors each winter. The sight of hundreds of greater and lesser flamingos, grey herons, black-headed ibis, and storks is unforgettable.

Gujarat’s Nal Sarovar, covering more than 120 sq km, is another crucial wintering site for thousands of migratory waterfowl. The lake’s shimmering waters host spectacular gatherings of ducks and pelicans. Visit the sanctuary for rosy pelicans, coots, stilts, and flamingos.

Dating back over 250 years, Vedanthangal is among India’s oldest protected bird sanctuaries. Generations of local villagers have safeguarded it, creating a thriving ecosystem for both migratory and resident birds. The sanctuary is a great place to spot big flocks of grey herons, open-billed storks, spoonbills, and white ibis.

If you are already in love with Kumarakom for its serene surroundings and greenery, this is just icing on the cake. Set along the scenic Vembanad Lake, Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary combines birdwatching with Kerala’s laid-back backwater life. The tranquil environment offers a unique way to observe both birds and village life. Stay in a nearby houseboat or eco-resort for a serene birding experience.

Did you know that Pulicat lake is the second-largest brackish lagoon in India? Pulicat Lake draws thousands of flamingos every winter, turning its mudflats into a pink-hued spectacle. Visit this site to get a good look at flamingos, pied avocets, stints, and sandpipers. Pair your trip with a visit to the nearby Nelapattu Bird Sanctuary, home to large pelican colonies.

Tucked in the Eastern Himalayas, Eaglenest Wildlife Sanctuary is one of India’s most extraordinary birding destinations. It's a biodiversity hotspot, home to some of the rarest Himalayan bird species. Eaglenest is home to Blyth’s tragopan, Hodgson’s frogmouth, and the world-famous Bugun liocichla, a bird species discovered here in 2006.