Birdwatching hotspots in India for travellers

By the Nexara Holidays travel desk · 2 min read

India has well over a thousand bird species and some of the world's great wetlands. These places are rewarding even for beginners.

Wetlands and lakes

• Chilika Lake, Odisha: huge flocks of migratory birds in winter, especially at Nalabana and the community-run wetland at Mangalajodi.
• Keoladeo National Park, Bharatpur: a famous wetland for winter migrants, cycled or explored by rickshaw.
• Kumarakom, Kerala: a bird sanctuary on Vembanad Lake.

Forests and hills

• Jim Corbett National Park: hundreds of species, from hornbills to raptors.
• Kabini and the Western Ghats: hornbills, kingfishers and endemic species.
• Valparai: great hornbills and endemic birds in the Anaimalai Hills.
• Eaglenest, Arunachal Pradesh: a renowned birding destination for serious birders.

Mangroves and coasts

• The Sundarbans: several species of kingfisher among the mangroves.

Seasons

Winter (November to February) brings migratory birds to wetlands. Spring is good for breeding plumage in many forests.

Tips

• Go out early in the morning.
• Hire a local birding guide.
• Carry binoculars and a field guide or app.
• Wear muted colours and move quietly.

See our Wildlife safaris and Photography holidays pages.

Birdwatching on a regular holiday

You do not need a dedicated birding trip. Many holidays include good birding: a houseboat on Vembanad Lake, a morning walk in Munnar's tea gardens, or a safari in Corbett. Carry binoculars, wake early and ask your guide to point out birds.

Etiquette

Keep your distance from nests, avoid playing bird calls loudly and stay on trails.