Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary: Ahmedabad’s Paradise Of Bird Watchers
Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary is primarily a lake spread across 120.82 Sq Km. This ambient marsh is around 62 km from Ahmedabad near Sanand village. It is the largest bird Sanctuary in Gujarat and is mainly inhabited by migratory birds in winter and spring. There are around 36 islands in this lake. During summer many other islands also surfaced.
Birding at Nalsarovar is one of the top things to do in Gujarat. The lake attracts over 250 species of birds, fishes, and animals. Animals include Black Buck, Wild Ass, and other mammalian. The Nalsarovar Birds Sanctuary has become the harbour for many endangered and preserved bird species. Making it a perfect place for birding Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary is an abode for many migrant birds including flamingos, rosy pelicans, Brahminy ducks, herons, Waterfowl, and many more.
History Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary Ahmedabad
The history of Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary dates back to the 15th century when the lake was created. The lake was initially used for irrigation and drinking water facilities for the nearby villagers. Over the years the lake has become an abode for many wildlife animals and birds, both endangered and preserved.
In the early 20th century British administration announced it as a wetland ecosystem and established it as a protected area. In 1969, the Gujrat government declared Nalsaravor a bird sanctuary for the primary and protected bird population in that region.
Things To Do At Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary Ahmedabad
1. Birding
Well, Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary is a paradise for birding. You can see many birds native to the region or have migrated. You can locate many birds including flamingos, rosy pelicans, Brahminy ducks, herons, Waterfowl, and many more. The best time to come here for birding is in winter. Many birds visit this Sanctuary at this time of the year.
2. Boating
Nalsarovar is spread over 120.82 Sq Km it is one of the best places for boating. You would see many birds in the lake and boating will enhance your leisure time while birding. The boating charges in Nalsarovar are nominal. But, you have to bargain to win the best price that suits your pocket and is most reasonable.
3. Photography
The lake has around 36 islands, making it the best place for photographing these beautiful birds. So, if you are a connoisseur of photography, don’t forget your camera or the perfect lens at your home.
You don’t want to miss that opportunity to click some beautiful pictures of these birds. People from all over the world come to Nalsaravor Lake to capture the perfect glimpse of these beautiful birds
Flora And Fauna At Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary Ahmedabad
There are officially 360 islands in the Nalsarovar Lake which is an abode of thousands of animals and birds. The lake is 4-6 feet deep and also has many aquatic plants and weeds growing in it. You can also see many lotuses blooming in the lake.
You can find more than 250 species of birds in Nalsarovar Lake. You will find birds like Montego, pelican, rosy pelican, harrier, and many more. Marsh Harrier from the Raptor family is the most famous among others in Nalsaravor Lake because of its hunting capacity in the open water. You will also find grey-headed swamphen in a large number.
There is this particular area in Nalsarovar that has long weeds and has a way to go through the weeds. You can spot clamorous reed warblers, ruddy-breasted crake, Jacanas, Crake, and many more.
There are around 36 islands which are inhabited by some people and they are spacious and have open areas. You can continue with birding or photography on these islands.
Dharabla Island
Dharabla Island is one of the islands in Nalsarovar Lake. It is quite big enough to accommodate a small number of people and a local restaurant serving local Gujarathi cuisine. You can have this local delicacy and trust me it won’t hurt your wallet. You can also bring your food from your home and have it. Just make sure that you do not litter anywhere.
This desi cushion by the locals includes Bajre ka Rotla with Ghee, Sev Tamatar Ke Sabji, Alu ke sabzi, baingan ka bharta, chutney, and to digest everything a glass full of chaas (buttermilk).
Best Time To Visit Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary
The best time to visit Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary is from November to February when the aura is pleasant and most of the birds tend to migrate here during this time. If you want to do birding or photography then come to the sanctuary early morning, at this time many birds come out and can be easily spotted.
Suggested Read: The Adventure Journey To Ralmandal Wildlife Sanctuary
Birds tend to migrate in the spring to take advantage of burgeoning insect populations, budding plants, and an abundance of nesting locations. Nalsarovar being one of the important harbors for most of the birds relocate here for a certain time.
Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary Ticket Price
Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary Ticket Price is Rs. 40/- per person on weekdays and Rs. 50/- per person on weekends. Parking fees for a four-wheeler are Rs. 400/- on weekdays and Rs. 500/- on weekends.
Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary Timings
Nalsaravor Bird Sanctuary Timings are from 06:00 am to 05:00 pm. The Sanctuary is open on all days.
Boating Charges In Nalsarovar
Boating charges at Nalsarovar are as follows –
- 1 Person – Rs. 220/-
- 2 Persons – Rs. Rs. 440/-
- 3 Persons – Rs. 660/-
- 4 Persons – Rs. 880/-
- 5 Persons – Rs. 1100/-
- 6 Persons – Rs. 1500/-
- Personal boat (Maximum 6 pax): Rs. 1500. Rs. 300/- extra per person if the count is above 6.
Hotels Near Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary
As it is one of the famous tourist spots, there are hotels near Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary. It is advisable to pre-book your hotels near the Sanctuary if you are planning to stay. As pre-booking will help you save money and give you the best deal near Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary. Following are some of the hotels near Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary:
- Flamingo Resort
- Hotel Darshan Guest House
- LVH Om Sanctuary Resort
- Hanj Kunj Habitat
- 100 Acres Club
- Club Mahindra Kensville Golf Resort
Restaurants Near Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary
It is advisable to have the local delicacy of Kathiyawadi food from Dharabla Island in Nalsarovar Lake. Following are some of the restaurants near Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary
- Honest Restaurant
- Murlidhar Restaurantt
- Iscon Gathiya – Fedra
- Ujani Ghar
How To Reach Nalsarovar Birds Sanctuary
Via Road
Nalsarovar is well connected to the other parts of the city. The nearest city to Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary is Ahmedabad. The Sanctuary is around 64 km from Ahmedabad city.
Via Air
The closest airport to Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary is Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport. It is around 74 km from the airport.
Via Rail
The nearest railway stations are Viramgam which is at a distance of 40 km and Ahmedabad at a distance of 64 km.
Tips Before Visiting Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary
- Seagulls follow you while boating, so to keep them around you carry popcorns that are not popped. You can get it from the ticket counter.
- Avoid giving any fried items to the birds.
- Make sure you do not litter anywhere. The local authorities make efforts to keep the sanctuary clean.
- Carry your cap, sunglasses, camera, and good binoculars.
Places To Visit Near Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary
There are no suitable tourist places to visit near Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary, but there are some suggestions that you can visit which are approximately 100 km from Nalsarovar.
1. Vastarapur Lake
The Vastrapur Lake is located in the western part of Ahmedabad. It is around 61 km from Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary. Vastrapur Lake in Ahmedabad is surrounded by a lush green garden and the riverside is embellished with various stones.
The round pathway is built for health enthusiasts to jog and work out. A small outing at Vastrapur Lake in Ahmedabad with children on one of the weekends is a must-try place.
2. Lothal – Archaeological Remains Of A Harappa Prot-Town
Lothal is around 43 km from Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary. It is located in today’s Bhal region. The ancient city of Lotha dates back to 3700 BC. The sight had well-planned and well-engineered urban planning, a dockyard, warehouse and granary, bead factory, and other things.
3. Bhadra Fort
Bhadra Fort is around 63 km from Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary. As per the legend, the temple was given the name after ‘Bhadra Kali Temple’ which was established by the Marathas.
It is also famous for its structural feature, that is, the three arches with ornate buttresses; hence, it is called “Teen Darwaza,” “Triple Gateway,” or “Three Gates” of Ahmedabad.
4. Kamla Nehru Zoo
Kamla Nehru Zoo is around 65 km from Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary Ahmedabad. Established in 1951, the major aim of the zoo is to protect endangered species by breeding them in captivity, to save them from extinction.
The zoo is cataractous into five major parts including open ground, cat family, birds, reptiles, and hoofed mammals. The Zoo also has a butterfly garden.
5. Manek Chowk
Manek Chowk is located in old Ahmedabad surrounded by the historical structure. It is famous for its night market. It is also famous for its street food. From serving delicacies like bhajiya to dosa, sandwiches, and various other Gujarati and Non-Gujarati delicacies.
What time does Nalsarovar Lake open?
The Nalsarovar Lake opens at 06:00 am.
Why is Nal Sarovar Bird Sanctuary famous?
Nal Sarovar Bird Sanctuary is famous for being a harbour and abode for many migrant birds.
How much is the price for a boat ride in Nalsarovar?
The boat charges per person are Rs. 220/- and the personal boat will cost you around Rs. 1500/- for 6 people and if there is any extra person then Rs. 300/- extra would be charged.
Which is the best time to visit Nalsarovar?
The best time to visit Nalsarovar is from November to February. In the daytime, you can come early to capture the perfect picture of the fauna in the lake.