Location

Salim Ali Jubba Sahni (Kanwar Lake) Bird Sanctuary is geographically located in the Begusarai district of Bihar. Connected via Begusarai-Manjhaul state highway.

History and Year of Notification

The sanctuary was officially notified in 1989 (Ramsar Site 2020) under Indian wildlife conservation frameworks. Notified as a sanctuary in 1989 and named after Dr. Salim Ali and freedom fighter Jubba Sahni. Declared a Ramsar Site in 2020.

Landscape, Geography and Habitat

Expansive oxbow wetland, marshy vegetation, phragmites reed beds, and surrounding alluvial farmland.

Flora and Bird Species

Records over 106 resident and 59 migratory bird species. Key species include critically endangered Indian Vulture, Greater Adjutant Stork, Oriental Darter, Sarus Crane, Common Pochard, Black-bellied Tern, Ferruginous Duck, and Pintail.

Other Wild Animals & Wildlife

Smooth-coated Otter, Blue Bull (Nilgai), Wild Boar, Jackal, Flapshell Turtle, and Water Snake.

Rivers and Water Bodies

The sanctuary’s ecosystem is sustained by: Gandak River channel and Kanwar Lake oxbow wetland (Asia’s largest freshwater oxbow lake).

Other Attractions Nearby

Key tourist attractions and historical sites near Salim Ali Jubba Sahni (Kanwar Lake) Bird Sanctuary include: Jai Mangala Garh Temple (inside sanctuary), Naulakha Temple Begusarai (22 km), Simaria River Ghat (35 km).

Weather and Climate

Hot summers (30°C to 42°C), monsoons (July–September), and pleasant winters (9°C to 22°C).

How to Reach (Airport & Railway Access)

• Nearest Airport: Patna Jay Prakash Narayan Airport (PAT) – 125 km
• Nearest Railway Station: Begusarai Railway Station (BGS) – 22 km / Barauni Junction (BJU) – 30 km
• Road Connectivity: Connected via Begusarai-Manjhaul state highway.

Best Time for Birdwatching

The optimal window to explore Salim Ali Jubba Sahni (Kanwar Lake) Bird Sanctuary is between November to March.

Accommodation

BSTDC Tourist Lodges at Begusarai.. Visitors are advised to book official state government eco-tourism stays in advance.