Introduction

Nal Sarovar Bird Sanctuary, situated in the Ahmedabad & Surendranagar district of Gujarat, is one of India’s most celebrated avian sanctuaries. Nal Sarovar Bird Sanctuary is Gujarat’s largest wetland sanctuary and a Ramsar Site, featuring 360 islets.

Quick Facts

Attribute Details
Sanctuary Name Nal Sarovar Bird Sanctuary
State & District Gujarat (Ahmedabad & Surendranagar)
Year of Notification 1969 (Ramsar Site 2012)
Total Protected Area 120.82 sq km
Rivers & Waterbodies Nal Sarovar 120 sq km lake fed by Brahmani and Bhogavo rivers
Nearest Airport Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport Ahmedabad (AMD) – 75 km
Nearest Railway Station Sanand Railway Station (SAU) – 40 km / Ahmedabad Junction (ADI) – 65 km
Best Time to Visit November to February

Location

Nal Sarovar Bird Sanctuary is geographically located in the Ahmedabad & Surendranagar district of Gujarat. Connected via State Highway 135 from Ahmedabad.

History and Year of Notification

The sanctuary was officially notified in 1969 (Ramsar Site 2012) under Indian wildlife conservation frameworks. Notified in 1969 and designated a Ramsar Site in 2012.

Landscape, Geography and Habitat

Natural shallow lake, reed beds, mudflats, and saline plains.

Flora and Bird Species

Greater Flamingo, Lesser Flamingo, Rosy Pelican, Demoiselle Crane, White Stork, Coot, Pintail, Shoveler, Black-tailed Godwit, and Avocet.

Other Wild Animals & Wildlife

Asiatic Wild Ass (Khur), Wild Boar, Jackal, Jungle Cat, Indian Fox, Nilgai, and Monitor Lizard.

Rivers and Water Bodies

The sanctuary’s ecosystem is sustained by: Nal Sarovar 120 sq km lake fed by Brahmani and Bhogavo rivers.

Other Attractions Nearby

Key tourist attractions and historical sites near Nal Sarovar Bird Sanctuary include: Lothal Harappan Site (45 km), Sanand City (40 km), Sabarmati Ashram (68 km).

Weather and Climate

Hot summers (32°C to 43°C), monsoons (July–September), and cool winters (12°C to 26°C).

How to Reach (Airport & Railway Access)

  • Nearest Airport: Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport Ahmedabad (AMD) – 75 km
  • Nearest Railway Station: Sanand Railway Station (SAU) – 40 km / Ahmedabad Junction (ADI) – 65 km
  • Road Connectivity: Connected via State Highway 135 from Ahmedabad.

Best Time for Birdwatching

The optimal window to explore Nal Sarovar Bird Sanctuary is between November to February.

Accommodation

TCGL Toran Resort Nalsarovar, Forest Eco-camps.. Visitors are advised to book official state government eco-tourism stays in advance.

Last Updated: August 2026