Introduction
Udhwa Lake Bird Sanctuary, situated in the Sahibganj district of Jharkhand, is one of India’s most celebrated avian sanctuaries. Udhwa Lake Bird Sanctuary is Jharkhand’s only official bird sanctuary, comprising twin oxbow lakes near the Ganga River.
Quick Facts
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Sanctuary Name | Udhwa Lake Bird Sanctuary |
| State & District | Jharkhand (Sahibganj) |
| Year of Notification | 1991 |
| Total Protected Area | 5.65 sq km |
| Rivers & Waterbodies | Ganges River floodplain and twin oxbow lakes (Patauda and Berhale) |
| Nearest Airport | Kazi Nazrul Islam Airport Durgapur (RGD) – 180 km / Bagdogra Airport – 210 km |
| Nearest Railway Station | Barharwa Junction Railway Station (BHW) – 10 km / Sahibganj (40 km) |
| Best Time to Visit | November to February |
Location
Udhwa Lake Bird Sanctuary is geographically located in the Sahibganj district of Jharkhand. 10 km from Barharwa junction on Howrah-Sahibganj loop line.
History and Year of Notification
The sanctuary was officially notified in 1991 under Indian wildlife conservation frameworks. Notified in 1991 under the Wildlife Protection Act to conserve Ganga flood basin bird habitats.
Landscape, Geography and Habitat
Natural oxbow lakes, marshy margins, reed beds, and surrounding Rajmahal hill scrub.
Flora and Bird Species
Pratincole, Egret, Heron, Cormorant, Kingfisher, Jacana, Teal, Pintail, Pochard, and Black-headed Ibis.
Other Wild Animals & Wildlife
Fishing Cat, Golden Jackal, Jungle Cat, Gangetic River Dolphin (in nearby Ganga river), and Monitor Lizard.
Rivers and Water Bodies
The sanctuary’s ecosystem is sustained by: Ganges River floodplain and twin oxbow lakes (Patauda and Berhale).
Other Attractions Nearby
Key tourist attractions and historical sites near Udhwa Lake Bird Sanctuary include: Rajmahal Historical Ruins (25 km), Sahibganj Ganga Ghats (40 km), Kanhaiya Stan Temple (15 km).
Weather and Climate
Hot humid summers (30°C to 42°C) and pleasant winters (10°C to 22°C).
How to Reach (Airport & Railway Access)
- Nearest Airport: Kazi Nazrul Islam Airport Durgapur (RGD) – 180 km / Bagdogra Airport – 210 km
- Nearest Railway Station: Barharwa Junction Railway Station (BHW) – 10 km / Sahibganj (40 km)
- Road Connectivity: 10 km from Barharwa junction on Howrah-Sahibganj loop line.
Best Time for Birdwatching
The optimal window to explore Udhwa Lake Bird Sanctuary is between November to February.
Accommodation
Forest Rest House Barharwa, State Guest House Sahibganj.. Visitors are advised to book official state government eco-tourism stays in advance.
Last Updated: August 2026
