Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary
NalSarovar Bird Sanctuary, is situated about 60 km to the West of Ahmedabad near Sanand Village, in the Gujarat state of India. Mainly inhabited by migratory birds in winter and spring. It is the largest wetland bird sanctuary in Gujarat, and one of the largest in India. Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary is the famous bird sanctuary in Gujarat. The Nalsarovar Lake is surrounded by the iron flat plains and is known for its water birds. The lake measures 123 km2, attracts over 210 species of birds in the winter, and harbors a variety of flora and fauna.
Fauna
Besides a few mammalian species including the endangered wild ass and the black buck, its migratory bird population includes rosy pelicans, flamingos, white storks, brahminy ducks and herons. Millions of birds visit the delightful bird sanctuary in winter and spring. It harborsover 250 species of wetland birds. Ducks, geese, pelicans and flamingos are best seen early in the morning and in the evening. Migrating Bharwadshephards populates the islands of the lake and on the banks are the Padhars, who are excellent folk dancers, artisans and boatmen. One can hire country boats on the lake for bird viewing, and picnic at shacks the on the islands.
Best Time to VisitNalsarovar Bird Sanctuary is November to February
Timing for the visiting the lake is 6 am to 6 pm, there is nominal entry fee per visitor and camera, however for boating one need to negotiate with the local boatmen, though prescribed rates are mentioned at the gate. The best time to reach there is just before Sunrise as the lake is calm and quiet and flock of birdsd waiting for their regular food. The water in the lake is only about 4 feet deep and the boatmen are quite friendly guides. The vast lake comprises several places of interest. You might just find the original Gujarati/Kathiawadi food in its simplest form and yet so yummy at one of the bet.
How to reach Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary
The Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary can be easily reached from Ahmedabad, which is about 60 kms. away.