7 Bird Sanctuaries In Delhi You Need To Check Out To While Away An Afternoon Bird-Spotting

Let’s get real, shall we? What with all the city traffic buzz, crazy work schedules, deadlines to meet, shopping and nightlife - we’ve lost touch with beautiful mother nature, haven’t we? Nature is a master healer and it’s time you got some one-on-one time! How about some bird-watching while you’re at it? Read on for the best, beautiful and serene bird sanctuaries you can escape to!

1. Asola Bhatti Wildlife Sanctuary

Picture Credits: jokersphotography

This wildlife and bird sanctuary is located in South Delhi and was once an overly-exploited mining region that has now been converted into a wildlife sanctuary. This lush sanctuary houses over 250 species of flora that will thoroughly refresh your senses and brighten up your day. The nearest metro station to this sanctuary is Tughlakabad. So head here and have a great time!

P.S. - The place is closed over the weekends, so plan your trip accordingly!

 Where | Asola Bhatti Wildlife Sanctuary - Cycle Route, Asola Wildlife Sanctuary, Asola
Timings 9 AM - 5 PM

2. Sultanpur Bird Sanctuary

Picture Credits: chandni_sarcar

This place is a must visit for those who want to catch a sight of resident and migratory birds that fly into mainland India from various parts of the world. The Sanctuary, situated near Gurgaon, houses nearly 250 bird species. Be sure to carry your DSLR to capture great pictures of these beautiful birds! The timings are from 7:30 AM - 4:30 PM and the place remains closed on Tuesdays.

Where | Sultanpur Bird Sanctuary - Gurgaon-Farrukh Nagar Road, Sultanpur, Gurgaon
Timings | 7:30 AM - 4:30 PM

3. Okhla Bird Sanctuary

Picture Credits: sriram.bhagavatula

The Okhla Bird Sanctuary houses more than 300 types of birds species! The best time to visit this place is between the months of November to March. Do carry your binoculars, a high-resolution camera and a field guide to help you identify the birds. The timings are from 7 AM - 5:30 PM. 

Where | Okhla Bird Sanctuary - Noida Plaza, N Block, Pocket K, Sector 95, Noida
Timings | 7 AM - 5:30 PM

4. Sanjay Van

Picture Credits: birdzandmore

A paradise for bird watchers and nature enthusiasts alike, Sanjay Van is a sprawling forest that’s spread over an area of 783 Acres. Other than the horror tales attached to this place, this forest is great to spot some rare birds in the city! The nearest metro station to this forest is Qutub Minar. Do carry your own food and water as there are not many convenience stores around.

 Where | Sanjay Van - Neela Hauz, Mehrauli in South Central Ridge
Timings | 6 AM - 8 PM

5. Yamuna Biodiversity Park

Picture Credits: birdzandmore

Yamuna Biodiversity Park is broadly divided into two parts - a visitor’s area and a nature reserve zone. For bird watchers, it is an absolute haven as you can spot rare Red-Crested Pochards, Great Cormorants, Shovelers, Herons, Pintails, Gadwalls and Darters. The timings are from 10 AM - 5 PM. A definite must-visit, don’t you think?

 Where | Yamuna Biodiversity Park - Main Jagatpur Road, Wazirabad
Timings | 10 AM - 5 PM
Call Them | +91 11 6564 9990

6. Aravalli Biodiversity Park

Picture Credits: ashir.kumar

This one is almost a new addition to the list of places where you can go bird-watching in the city. Surrounded by the lush green along with the Aravalli ranges, this biodiversity park will win your heart with its beautiful nature trails. Frequented by other wild animals, this one also attracts a number of different species of birds.

Where | Aravalli Biodiversity Park - Near Air India Colony, Vasant Viha

7. Kamala Nehru Ridge Park

Picture Credits: prasadvnair

Kamala Nehru Park is a serene getaway from the hustle-bustle of the city and houses nearly 70 species of resident birds. Early mornings here are an experience in themselves, especially in the winter where you can see flocks of birds waking up to the rising sun. The nearest metro station to this place is Vishwavidyalaya. The place also has a small pond called Khooni Jheel.

Where | Kamala Nehru Ridge Park - Magazine Road, Civil Lines

So, head over to any of these cool places one fine morning and appease the avid bird-watcher in you!