Introduction
City Bird Sanctuary, situated in the Chandigarh Sector 21 district of Chandigarh, is one of India’s most celebrated avian sanctuaries. City Bird Sanctuary in Sector 21, Chandigarh, is a unique urban sanctuary famous as a major roosting site for thousands of parakeets.
Quick Facts
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Sanctuary Name | City Bird Sanctuary |
| State & District | Chandigarh (Chandigarh Sector 21) |
| Year of Notification | 1998 |
| Total Protected Area | 0.03 sq km (2.9 hectares) |
| Rivers & Waterbodies | Sukhna Lake catchment channels and urban forest ponds |
| Nearest Airport | Chandigarh International Airport (IXC) – 12 km |
| Nearest Railway Station | Chandigarh Junction Railway Station (CDG) – 8 km |
| Best Time to Visit | Round the year (Peak parrot evening roosting) |
Location
City Bird Sanctuary is geographically located in the Chandigarh Sector 21 district of Chandigarh. Located inside Sector 21C, easily reached via local city taxis and autos.
History and Year of Notification
The sanctuary was officially notified in 1998 under Indian wildlife conservation frameworks. Declared a protected bird sanctuary in September 1998 by Chandigarh Union Territory Administration.
Landscape, Geography and Habitat
Urban grove featuring mature Eucalyptus, Mango, Jamun, and Ficus trees.
Flora and Bird Species
Urban parrot and woodland sanctuary. Key species include Rose-ringed Parakeet, Alexandrine Parakeet, Indian Grey Hornbill, Black Kite, Spotted Owlet, Sunbird, Barbets, and Shikra.
Other Wild Animals & Wildlife
Indian Palm Civet, Common Mongoose, Fruit Bat, Flying Squirrel, and Garden Lizard.
Rivers and Water Bodies
The sanctuary’s ecosystem is sustained by: Sukhna Lake catchment channels and urban forest ponds.
Other Attractions Nearby
Key tourist attractions and historical sites near City Bird Sanctuary include: Sukhna Lake (5 km), Rock Garden Chandigarh (6 km), Zakir Hussain Rose Garden (3 km), Capitol Complex (6 km).
Weather and Climate
Sub-Himalayan climate. Hot summers (30°C to 42°C), monsoons (July–September), and cold winters (5°C to 18°C).
How to Reach (Airport & Railway Access)
- Nearest Airport: Chandigarh International Airport (IXC) – 12 km
- Nearest Railway Station: Chandigarh Junction Railway Station (CDG) – 8 km
- Road Connectivity: Located inside Sector 21C, easily reached via local city taxis and autos.
Best Time for Birdwatching
The optimal window to explore City Bird Sanctuary is between Round the year (Peak parrot evening roosting).
Accommodation
CITCO Hotel Mountview Chandigarh, Hotel Parkview Sector 24.. Visitors are advised to book official state government eco-tourism stays in advance.
Last Updated: August 2026
