Introduction

Keoladeo National Park (Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary), situated in the Bharatpur district of Rajasthan, is one of India’s most celebrated avian sanctuaries. Keoladeo National Park (Bharatpur) is an internationally acclaimed UNESCO World Heritage Site and Ramsar Wetland.

Quick Facts

Attribute Details
Sanctuary Name Keoladeo National Park (Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary)
State & District Rajasthan (Bharatpur)
Year of Notification 1956 (Sanctuary) / 1981 (National Park) / 1985 (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
Total Protected Area 29 sq km
Rivers & Waterbodies Ajan Bund reservoir, Gambhir River, Banganga River
Nearest Airport Agra Airport (56 km) / Jaipur International Airport (180 km)
Nearest Railway Station Bharatpur Junction (BTE) – 5 km
Best Time to Visit October to March

Location

Keoladeo National Park (Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary) is geographically located in the Bharatpur district of Rajasthan. On NH-21 (Jaipur-Agra Highway).

History and Year of Notification

The sanctuary was officially notified in 1956 (Sanctuary) / 1981 (National Park) / 1985 (UNESCO World Heritage Site) under Indian wildlife conservation frameworks. Notified a Sanctuary in 1956, National Park in 1981, UNESCO Site in 1985.

Landscape, Geography and Habitat

Mosaic of dyked shallow marshes, wet pastures, and dry acacia scrub forest.

Flora and Bird Species

Painted Stork, Asian Openbill, Spoonbill, Sarus Crane, Bar-headed Goose, Pintail, Pelican, Greater Flamingo, Imperial Eagle, and Siberian Crane (historically).

Other Wild Animals & Wildlife

Sambar Deer, Chital, Nilgai, Wild Boar, Golden Jackal, Jungle Cat, Rock Python, and Monitor Lizard.

Rivers and Water Bodies

The sanctuary’s ecosystem is sustained by: Ajan Bund reservoir, Gambhir River, Banganga River.

Other Attractions Nearby

Key tourist attractions and historical sites near Keoladeo National Park (Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary) include: Lohagarh Fort (6 km), Deeg Palace (35 km), Fatehpur Sikri (22 km).

Weather and Climate

Semi-arid continental climate (8°C to 45°C).

How to Reach (Airport & Railway Access)

  • Nearest Airport: Agra Airport (56 km) / Jaipur International Airport (180 km)
  • Nearest Railway Station: Bharatpur Junction (BTE) – 5 km
  • Road Connectivity: On NH-21 (Jaipur-Agra Highway).

Best Time for Birdwatching

The optimal window to explore Keoladeo National Park (Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary) is between October to March.

Accommodation

RTDC Hotel Saras Bharatpur.. Visitors are advised to book official state government eco-tourism stays in advance.

Last Updated: August 2026