Introduction

Samaspur Bird Sanctuary, situated in the Rae Bareli district of Uttar Pradesh, is one of India’s most celebrated avian sanctuaries. Samaspur Bird Sanctuary is a major Ramsar Site wetland complex of 6 interconnected lakes in Rae Bareli.

Quick Facts

Attribute Details
Sanctuary Name Samaspur Bird Sanctuary
State & District Uttar Pradesh (Rae Bareli)
Year of Notification 1987 (Ramsar Site 2019)
Total Protected Area 7.99 sq km
Rivers & Waterbodies Perennial lowland lakes (Samaspur, Rohania, Mamuni, Hakganj, and Bishnathpur jheels) fed by Ganges River canals
Nearest Airport Lucknow Airport (LKO) – 90 km
Nearest Railway Station Rae Bareli Junction (RBL) – 35 km / Unchahar Junction – 15 km
Best Time to Visit November to March

Location

Samaspur Bird Sanctuary is geographically located in the Rae Bareli district of Uttar Pradesh. 15 km from Unchahar on Rae Bareli-Allahabad road.

History and Year of Notification

The sanctuary was officially notified in 1987 (Ramsar Site 2019) under Indian wildlife conservation frameworks. Notified in 1987 and declared a Ramsar Site in 2019.

Landscape, Geography and Habitat

Interconnected freshwater lakes, reed beds, and surrounding rural forest groves.

Flora and Bird Species

Records over 250 bird species. Key species include Greylag Goose, Pintail, Whistling Teal, Spot-billed Duck, Eurasian Spoonbill, Sarus Crane, Comb Duck, and Kingfishers.

Other Wild Animals & Wildlife

Nilgai, Jackal, Jungle Cat, Smooth-coated Otter, Flapshell Turtle, and 46 fish species.

Rivers and Water Bodies

The sanctuary’s ecosystem is sustained by: Perennial lowland lakes (Samaspur, Rohania, Mamuni, Hakganj, and Bishnathpur jheels) fed by Ganges River canals.

Other Attractions Nearby

Key tourist attractions and historical sites near Samaspur Bird Sanctuary include: Dalmau Ganges Ghat (25 km), Rae Bareli Town (35 km), Lucknow (90 km).

Weather and Climate

Subtropical climate (6°C to 42°C).

How to Reach (Airport & Railway Access)

  • Nearest Airport: Lucknow Airport (LKO) – 90 km
  • Nearest Railway Station: Rae Bareli Junction (RBL) – 35 km / Unchahar Junction – 15 km
  • Road Connectivity: 15 km from Unchahar on Rae Bareli-Allahabad road.

Best Time for Birdwatching

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

Accommodation

UP Tourism Rahi Hotel Rae Bareli.. Visitors are advised to book official state government eco-tourism stays in advance.

Last Updated: August 2026