Introduction
Gobind Sagar Bird Sanctuary, situated in the Bilaspur & Una district of Himachal Pradesh, is one of India’s most celebrated avian sanctuaries. Gobind Sagar Bird Sanctuary is set on the enormous reservoir lake created by the historic Bhakra Dam on the Sutlej River.
Quick Facts
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Sanctuary Name | Gobind Sagar Bird Sanctuary |
| State & District | Himachal Pradesh (Bilaspur & Una) |
| Year of Notification | 1962 |
| Total Protected Area | 100 sq km lake area |
| Rivers & Waterbodies | Sutlej River reservoir behind Bhakra Dam (Gobind Sagar Lake) |
| Nearest Airport | Chandigarh International Airport (IXC) – 105 km |
| Nearest Railway Station | Anandpur Sahib Railway Station (ANSB) – 30 km / Una Himachal (40 km) |
| Best Time to Visit | October to March |
Location
Gobind Sagar Bird Sanctuary is geographically located in the Bilaspur & Una district of Himachal Pradesh. Via Chandigarh-Kiratpur-Bilaspur highway.
History and Year of Notification
The sanctuary was officially notified in 1962 under Indian wildlife conservation frameworks. Declared a waterfowl sanctuary in December 1962 under Himachal Pradesh forest wildlife rules.
Landscape, Geography and Habitat
Deep blue Himalayan reservoir lake encircled by steep Shivalik pine hills.
Flora and Bird Species
Red-crested Pochard, Tufted Duck, Cormorant, Heron, Mallard, Crane, Bar-headed Goose, and Kingfisher.
Other Wild Animals & Wildlife
Barking Deer, Sambar, Wild Boar, Leopard, Jackal, and Himalayan Palm Civet.
Rivers and Water Bodies
The sanctuary’s ecosystem is sustained by: Sutlej River reservoir behind Bhakra Dam (Gobind Sagar Lake).
Other Attractions Nearby
Key tourist attractions and historical sites near Gobind Sagar Bird Sanctuary include: Bhakra Dam (20 km), Naina Devi Temple (25 km), Anandpur Sahib Gurudwara (30 km), Bilaspur Town (35 km).
Weather and Climate
Warm summers (24°C to 38°C) and chilly winters (6°C to 20°C).
How to Reach (Airport & Railway Access)
- Nearest Airport: Chandigarh International Airport (IXC) – 105 km
- Nearest Railway Station: Anandpur Sahib Railway Station (ANSB) – 30 km / Una Himachal (40 km)
- Road Connectivity: Via Chandigarh-Kiratpur-Bilaspur highway.
Best Time for Birdwatching
The optimal window to explore Gobind Sagar Bird Sanctuary is between October to March.
Accommodation
HPTDC Hotel Lake View Bilaspur.. Visitors are advised to book official state government eco-tourism stays in advance.
Last Updated: August 2026