Introduction

Najafgarh Drain Bird Sanctuary, situated in the South West Delhi district of Delhi, is one of India’s most celebrated avian sanctuaries. Najafgarh Jheel Bird Sanctuary is an extensive natural wetland basin along the Sahibi River course on the Delhi-Gurugram border.

Quick Facts

Attribute Details
Sanctuary Name Najafgarh Drain Bird Sanctuary
State & District Delhi (South West Delhi)
Year of Notification 2009
Total Protected Area 7 sq km wetland corridor
Rivers & Waterbodies Najafgarh Jheel (lake) basin and Sahibi River channel
Nearest Airport Indira Gandhi International Airport, New Delhi (DEL) – 15 km
Nearest Railway Station New Delhi Railway Station (NDLS) – 30 km / Gurgaon Station – 15 km
Best Time to Visit November to March

Location

Najafgarh Drain Bird Sanctuary is geographically located in the South West Delhi district of Delhi. Accessible via Najafgarh-Gurgaon Road and Dwarka Expressway.

History and Year of Notification

The sanctuary was officially notified in 2009 under Indian wildlife conservation frameworks. Protected as a critical urban wetland habitat under Delhi & Haryana environmental protection guidelines.

Landscape, Geography and Habitat

Freshwater lake basin, mudflats, marshy vegetation, and surrounding acacia scrub plains.

Flora and Bird Species

Records over 150 wetland bird species. Key species include Greater Flamingo, Black-necked Stork, Sarus Crane, Northern Pintail, Bar-headed Goose, Spoonbill, Egret, and Marsh Harrier.

Other Wild Animals & Wildlife

Nilgai (Blue Bull), Golden Jackal, Jungle Cat, Monitor Lizard, and Indian Porcupine.

Rivers and Water Bodies

The sanctuary’s ecosystem is sustained by: Najafgarh Jheel (lake) basin and Sahibi River channel.

Other Attractions Nearby

Key tourist attractions and historical sites near Najafgarh Drain Bird Sanctuary include: Sultanpur National Park (20 km), Cyber City Gurugram (12 km), Dwarka Sub-city (10 km).

Weather and Climate

Semi-arid climate. Hot summers (32°C to 45°C), monsoons (July–September), and cold winters (5°C to 20°C).

How to Reach (Airport & Railway Access)

  • Nearest Airport: Indira Gandhi International Airport, New Delhi (DEL) – 15 km
  • Nearest Railway Station: New Delhi Railway Station (NDLS) – 30 km / Gurgaon Station – 15 km
  • Road Connectivity: Accessible via Najafgarh-Gurgaon Road and Dwarka Expressway.

Best Time for Birdwatching

The optimal window to explore Najafgarh Drain Bird Sanctuary is between November to March.

Accommodation

Hotels in Dwarka and Gurugram.. Visitors are advised to book official state government eco-tourism stays in advance.

Last Updated: August 2026