Introduction

Kulik (Raiganj) Bird Sanctuary, situated in the Uttar Dinajpur (Raiganj) district of West Bengal, is one of India’s most celebrated avian sanctuaries. Kulik Bird Sanctuary in Raiganj is one of Asia’s largest Asian Openbill Stork breeding heronries.

Quick Facts

Attribute Details
Sanctuary Name Kulik (Raiganj) Bird Sanctuary
State & District West Bengal (Uttar Dinajpur (Raiganj))
Year of Notification 1985
Total Protected Area 1.3 sq km
Rivers & Waterbodies Kulik River horseshoe bend and canal networks
Nearest Airport Bagdogra International Airport (IXB) – 160 km
Nearest Railway Station Raiganj Railway Station (RGJ) – 4 km
Best Time to Visit June to December (Heronry nesting season)

Location

Kulik (Raiganj) Bird Sanctuary is geographically located in the Uttar Dinajpur (Raiganj) district of West Bengal. 4 km from Raiganj town on NH-12.

History and Year of Notification

The sanctuary was officially notified in 1985 under Indian wildlife conservation frameworks. Notified as a Wildlife Sanctuary in 1985 by West Bengal Forest Department.

Landscape, Geography and Habitat

Canal-entwined forest plantation of Kadam, Jarul, and Eucalyptus trees.

Flora and Bird Species

Asian Openbill Stork (one of Asia’s largest nesting colonies with 80,000+ birds), Little Cormorant, Night Heron, Egret, White Ibis, and Kingfishers.

Other Wild Animals & Wildlife

Asian Palm Civet, Jackal, Jungle Cat, Bengal Monitor Lizard, Tree Frog, and Water Snake.

Rivers and Water Bodies

The sanctuary’s ecosystem is sustained by: Kulik River horseshoe bend and canal networks.

Other Attractions Nearby

Key tourist attractions and historical sites near Kulik (Raiganj) Bird Sanctuary include: Raiganj Forest Eco Park (1 km), Kulik River Watchtower (0 km), Gour Historical Ruins Malda (75 km).

Weather and Climate

Subtropical monsoon climate (10°C to 38°C).

How to Reach (Airport & Railway Access)

  • Nearest Airport: Bagdogra International Airport (IXB) – 160 km
  • Nearest Railway Station: Raiganj Railway Station (RGJ) – 4 km
  • Road Connectivity: 4 km from Raiganj town on NH-12.

Best Time for Birdwatching

The optimal window to explore Kulik (Raiganj) Bird Sanctuary is between June to December (Heronry nesting season).

Accommodation

WBFDC Raiganj Nature Lodge, WBTDCL Tourist Lodge.. Visitors are advised to book official state government eco-tourism stays in advance.

Last Updated: August 2026