Keoladeo Ghana National Park
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Also known as Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary, the Keoladeo Ghana National Parks is the largest and possibly the best heronry in the world. This sanctuary is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The 29 sq. kms of lakes and marshes, woodland and scrub is a nesting place for over 375 species of birds and some are migrants from Siberia, Central Asia and Europe. Although predominantly a bird sanctuary the park is also home to numerous reptiles and mammals. The aquatic habitat was originally artificially developed by the Maharaja of Bharatpur in 1890. This is also the destination of the rare Siberian cranes and the Sarus crane, the only resident crane. It is very close to Fatehpur Sikri and often fits in well with a trip to see the Taj Mahal, Jaipur and Delhi.
Highlights
- Close to main cultural sites
- Great place to relax for a day
- World renowned birding
- Good accommodation nearby
Situation
On Rajasthan's border with Uttar Pradesh. It is 150kms East of Jaipur and 56kms West of Agra, very close to Fatehpur Sikri.
Activities
Bird watching by foot, bike or cycle rickshaw. Boat rides seasonally available.
Health
There are no compulsory vaccinations.
Best times to go
The park is open throughout the year. August to November is best for resident breeding birds and October to February for migrant birds.
Getting there
This is usually done as a road trip en route between Jaipur and Agra or direct from Delhi.