Introduction

Saman Bird Sanctuary, situated in the Mainpuri district of Uttar Pradesh, is one of India’s most celebrated avian sanctuaries. Saman Bird Sanctuary is a Gangetic floodplain Ramsar Site wetland lake in Mainpuri district.

Quick Facts

Attribute Details
Sanctuary Name Saman Bird Sanctuary
State & District Uttar Pradesh (Mainpuri)
Year of Notification 1990 (Ramsar Site 2019)
Total Protected Area 5.26 sq km
Rivers & Waterbodies Seasonal rain-fed Gangetic oxbow lake and lowland jheel
Nearest Airport Agra Airport (AGR) – 110 km / Lucknow Airport – 190 km
Nearest Railway Station Mainpuri Railway Station (MNQ) – 25 km / Etawah Junction – 45 km
Best Time to Visit November to March

Location

Saman Bird Sanctuary is geographically located in the Mainpuri district of Uttar Pradesh. 25 km from Mainpuri.

History and Year of Notification

The sanctuary was officially notified in 1990 (Ramsar Site 2019) under Indian wildlife conservation frameworks. Notified in 1990 and declared a Ramsar Site in 2019.

Landscape, Geography and Habitat

Seasonal oxbow lake, marshy grassland, and croplands.

Flora and Bird Species

Sarus Crane (hosts over 1% of South Asian population), Greylag Goose, Greater Spotted Eagle, Black-crowned Night Heron, Pintail, Teal, and Spoonbill.

Other Wild Animals & Wildlife

Nilgai (Blue Bull), Golden Jackal, Jungle Cat, Common Mongoose, and Checkered Keelback.

Rivers and Water Bodies

The sanctuary’s ecosystem is sustained by: Seasonal rain-fed Gangetic oxbow lake and lowland jheel.

Other Attractions Nearby

Key tourist attractions and historical sites near Saman Bird Sanctuary include: Mainpuri Town (25 km), Etawah Safari Park (45 km), Agra Taj Mahal (110 km).

Weather and Climate

Continental climate (5°C to 44°C).

How to Reach (Airport & Railway Access)

  • Nearest Airport: Agra Airport (AGR) – 110 km / Lucknow Airport – 190 km
  • Nearest Railway Station: Mainpuri Railway Station (MNQ) – 25 km / Etawah Junction – 45 km
  • Road Connectivity: 25 km from Mainpuri.

Best Time for Birdwatching

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

Accommodation

Forest Rest House Mainpuri.. Visitors are advised to book official state government eco-tourism stays in advance.

Last Updated: August 2026