India’s lakes are alive with birds! From flamingos to hornbills, these water havens attract thousands of resident and migratory species, making them perfect for nature lovers.
Asia’s largest brackish lagoon, Chilika is a birdwatcher’s delight. During winters, it transforms into a vibrant sanctuary where sea eagles, greylag geese, purple moorhens, jacanas, and flocks of migratory species gather in thousands.
Spread over serene wetlands, Nal Sarovar is a haven for winter birds. With over 210 species including pelicans, lesser flamingos, and moorhens, this lake comes alive at sunrise — making early mornings the best time to visit.
Inside the famous Bharatpur National Park lies Keoladeo Lake, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Home to nearly 400 species, it is a hotspot for warblers, bee-eaters, buntings, and migratory birds that travel thousands of miles.
Known for its floating phumdis (islands), Loktak is Northeast India’s treasure. Apart from its unique ecosystem, the lake shelters hornbills, waterfowl, and other rare birds, making it a dream for bird enthusiasts.
A freshwater lake near Guwahati, Deepor Beel is a Ramsar site that supports more than 200 bird species. Spot-billed pelicans, adjutant storks, and even rare winter visitors like the Siberian crane flock here in large numbers.
India’s largest saltwater lake is famed for its striking pink flamingos. During winter, this otherwise calm lake turns into a spectacular pink-feathered landscape as thousands of flamingos arrive, along with other migratory guests.
The second-largest brackish lagoon in India, Pulicat is a seasonal paradise for flamingos. Birdwatchers can also spot storks, pelicans, ducks, and egrets in large flocks, especially during winter months.
Nestled between the Krishna and Godavari deltas, Kolleru is one of India’s largest freshwater lakes. It supports millions of resident and migratory birds like storks, cranes, and ibises, making it an ecological hotspot.
Set against the backdrop of the Himalayas, Pong Dam Lake is a winter refuge for migratory birds. Birdwatchers can enjoy sightings of bar-headed geese, ruddy shelducks, lapwings, pintails, and more.
A high-altitude gem in Ladakh, Tso Moriri is pristine and peaceful. It attracts rare species like black-necked cranes, bar-headed geese, and brown-headed gulls. Its breathtaking setting only adds to the magical birdwatching experience.