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Bharatpur National Park

Darter Hang Out in Bharatpur National Park

Location

The Bharatpur National Park is located in the Bharatpur city of Rajasthan, India.

Best Time to Visit

Though the sanctuary is open throughout the year for tourists, yet the best time to visit it is between the period of October to February. This is the winter season when the climate is at its best. Also, the fact that the migratory birds flock to the park during this season makes this period even more attractive. For those desirous of seeing the resident birds, August to November is the best time.

About Bharatpur National Park

Officially known as the Keoladeo Ghana National Park, the Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary occupies an area of 29 sq km. The park was initially created by the Maharaja of Bharatpur in the 19th century as he desired to save his town from the calamitous flood water. The dam he built left back a depression which was later converted into Bharatpur Lake. The lake served as a hunting preserve for the Maharaja for quiet sometime before it was finally declared a National Park in the year 1982. It gained the status of the World Heritage Site in the year 1985.

The name Keoladeo Ghana National Park draws its name from an ancient Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva which is located in the park area itself, Keoladeo. The term Ghana indicates the thickness of the forest which earlier used to occupy the region.

Visitors require to get an entry permit from the warden at the entrance of the park. Separate payments have to be made for carrying cameras and other photographic equipments.

Bharatpur Park Attractions

Flora - The 29 sq km of the park is majorly covered with kadam forests, grasslands and shallow lakes.

Birds - Birds are the prime attraction for the visitors in this park. It is one of the best places in the world to see birds. Around 350 species of birds, both resident and migratory, can be seen in this park. The most popular and awaited guest of the park is the highly endangered Siberian Cranes. The bird is known to fly to just two destinations in winters, viz., Iran and Bharatpur. The birds arrive in December and stay comfortably till the early days of March. Other birds that form a major attraction in the park include Pelicans, Geese, Ducks, Ibises, Egrets, Eagles, Hawks, Warblers, Wheatears, Flycatchers, Buntings, Larks, Shanks, Stints, Wagtails and Pipits

Animals - Though the birds at the Bharatpur National Park hog much of the limelight, yet the animals to have their fair share of spectators and lovers. The most prominent animals that can be seen in the park are Golden Jackal, Striped Hyena, Fishing Cat, Jungle Cat, Nilgai, Sambar, Blackbuck and Wild Boar.

Reptiles - A wide variety of reptiles can also be found in the Bharatpur National Park. Visitors can get to see the large Python lazing in the warmth of the sun rays.

Things to Do

Enjoy Cycling - Cycling around the park, visitors can themselves unravel a great deal of attractions in the park. Also, when the weather is good, cycling in the park is an enjoyable experience in itself. Cycles area available on hired at the entrance of the park.

Enjoy Boating - Boating in the Bharatpur Lake early in the morning or in the evening is one beautiful and fulfilling experience not to be missed at any cost. Boats are given on hire by the forest department.

Enjoy Walking Trips - With well defined routes, walking trips in the Bharatpur National Park is an amazing experience. It gives an opportunity to discover the area and its inhabitants at a leisurely pace. Maps of walking trails in the park are available with the reception staff at the entrance.

Enjoy Rickshaw Ride - Rickshaw ride are yet another way to explore the park at a comfortable pace without disturbing the inmates. The rickshaw pullers are all trained by the forest officials and hence know the area pretty well. Guided by them, it is easier to spot more number of birds.