Sultanpur Bird Sanctuary is a paradise for birdwatchers and nature lovers located in the heart of Gurgaon, Haryana. Spread across an area of 1.43 square kilometers, the sanctuary is home to a wide variety of migratory and resident birds, making it one of the most popular destinations for birdwatching in the region.
History and Location
The Sultanpur Bird Sanctuary was established in 1972 by the Government of Haryana with the aim of preserving and conserving the natural habitat of birds in the region. The sanctuary is located in Sultanpur village, which is about 40 km from Delhi and 15 km from Gurgaon.
Flora and Fauna
The sanctuary is home to more than 250 species of birds, both resident and migratory. The most common birds that can be spotted in the sanctuary include the Indian Roller, White-throated Kingfisher, Spot-billed Duck, Eurasian Wigeon, Ruff, and Black-winged Stilt. Some of the migratory birds that visit the sanctuary during winters include the Siberian Crane, Greater Flamingo, and Rosy Pelican.
Apart from birds, the sanctuary is also home to a variety of animals such as Nilgai, Blackbuck, Indian Hare, and Porcupine. The vegetation in the sanctuary comprises of tropical dry deciduous forests, grasslands, and wetlands.
Visiting Hours and Entry Fee
The Sultanpur Bird Sanctuary is open throughout the year, from 7 am to 4.30 pm. The best time to visit the sanctuary is during the winter months, from October to March, when the migratory birds arrive in large numbers. The entry fee for Indian citizens is INR 5 per person and INR 40 for foreign nationals. The fee for still photography is INR 25, while for videography it is INR 200.
Facilities and Activities
The sanctuary is well-equipped with facilities such as toilets, drinking water, and parking. There are also a number of watchtowers and observation points located throughout the sanctuary, which offer excellent views of the birds and wildlife. Visitors can also opt for a guided tour of the sanctuary, which is conducted by trained guides and naturalists.
Apart from birdwatching, the sanctuary also offers a number of other activities such as nature walks, trekking, and boating. The boating facilities are available from October to June and cost INR 50 per person for a 30-minute ride. Visitors can also enjoy a picnic or a day trip to the sanctuary, as there are a number of picnic spots located within the sanctuary.
How to Reach
The Sultanpur Bird Sanctuary is well-connected by road and can be easily reached from Delhi and Gurgaon. The nearest airport is the Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi, which is about 25 km from the sanctuary. The nearest railway station is the Gurgaon Railway Station, which is about 15 km from the sanctuary. Visitors can hire a taxi or take a bus from either Delhi or Gurgaon to reach the sanctuary.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Sultanpur Bird Sanctuary is a must-visit destination for birdwatchers and nature lovers. With its diverse range of resident and migratory birds, the sanctuary offers a unique and immersive experience that is sure to leave a lasting impression. So, if you are planning a trip to Gurgaon or Delhi, do not forget to include a visit to the Sultanpur Bird Sanctuary in your itinerary.
