Introduction

Sailana Kharmor Sanctuary, situated in the Ratlam district of Madhya Pradesh, is one of India’s most celebrated avian sanctuaries. Sailana Kharmor Sanctuary in Ratlam district is world-famous for the rare breeding leaping display of the Lesser Florican.

Quick Facts

Attribute Details
Sanctuary Name Sailana Kharmor Sanctuary
State & District Madhya Pradesh (Ratlam)
Year of Notification 1983
Total Protected Area 13 sq km
Rivers & Waterbodies Kshipra and Mahi River basin tributaries
Nearest Airport Indore Devi Ahilya Bai Holkar Airport (IDR) – 140 km
Nearest Railway Station Ratlam Junction Railway Station (RTM) – 20 km
Best Time to Visit July to October (Lesser Florican breeding season)

Location

Sailana Kharmor Sanctuary is geographically located in the Ratlam district of Madhya Pradesh. 20 km from Ratlam railway junction.

History and Year of Notification

The sanctuary was officially notified in 1983 under Indian wildlife conservation frameworks. Notified in June 1983 following florican conservation initiatives led by Salim Ali and local naturalists.

Landscape, Geography and Habitat

Open rolling grasslands (Vidis), crop fields, and dry scrubland.

Flora and Bird Species

Lesser Florican (Kharmor – famous breeding courtship leap display), Crested Lark, Bushchat, Francolin, Weaverbird, Quail, and Falcons.

Other Wild Animals & Wildlife

Blackbuck, Golden Jackal, Indian Fox, Jungle Cat, Common Mongoose, and Monitor Lizard.

Rivers and Water Bodies

The sanctuary’s ecosystem is sustained by: Kshipra and Mahi River basin tributaries.

Other Attractions Nearby

Key tourist attractions and historical sites near Sailana Kharmor Sanctuary include: Sailana Cactus Garden (2 km), Sailana Palace (3 km), Ratlam Cactus Garden (20 km), Ujjain Mahakaleshwar (110 km).

Weather and Climate

Monsoon breeding season (July–September), hot summers (30°C to 44°C).

How to Reach (Airport & Railway Access)

  • Nearest Airport: Indore Devi Ahilya Bai Holkar Airport (IDR) – 140 km
  • Nearest Railway Station: Ratlam Junction Railway Station (RTM) – 20 km
  • Road Connectivity: 20 km from Ratlam railway junction.

Best Time for Birdwatching

The optimal window to explore Sailana Kharmor Sanctuary is between July to October (Lesser Florican breeding season).

Accommodation

Sailana Palace Guest House, MP Tourism Hotels in Ratlam.. Visitors are advised to book official state government eco-tourism stays in advance.

Last Updated: August 2026