Keoladeo is renowned for its exceptional avifauna, hosting over 370 bird species. During peak season, it becomes home to thousands of migratory birds, including the rare Siberian Crane (historically), painted storks, spoonbills, and various species of eagles, hawks, and waterfowl. The park also supports numerous mammals such as nilgai, sambar deer, wild boar, and fishing cats. Reptiles include pythons, monitor lizards, and various turtle species. The wetland ecosystem provides habitat for numerous fish species, making it an important feeding ground for piscivorous birds.
The park supports a diverse array of vegetation types, including semi-arid grasslands, woodland swamps, and dry deciduous forests. Over 350 plant species have been identified within its boundaries. The dominant tree species include Acacia nilotica, Prosopis cineraria, and Salvadora persica. The aquatic vegetation features water lilies, hydrilla, and various algae species that provide crucial feeding grounds for waterfowl. The park's unique mix of vegetation creates distinct microhabitats, from dense Kadam forests to open grasslands, supporting its rich biodiversity.
The park's unique geology consists of a depression in the alluvial plains of eastern Rajasthan, created through careful engineering during its construction. The area features a mosaic of dry grasslands, woodlands, and wetlands built on natural depressions. The soil is predominantly alluvial, formed by deposits from the Gambhir and Banganga Rivers. The park's elaborate system of dykes, mounds, and barriers was designed to maintain water levels, creating an artificial wetland that sustains its diverse ecosystem. The terrain varies from flat grasslands to shallow wetlands, with slight elevations ranging from 4-6 meters.
Originally known as Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary, this man-made wetland was created in the 1850s by Maharaja Suraj Mal of Bharatpur. It served as a duck hunting ground for the maharajas and British colonial officers until 1982. The park was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985 and renamed Keoladeo National Park, after the ancient Shiva temple located within its boundaries. The park's transformation from a hunting reserve to a protected sanctuary represents one of India's most successful conservation stories, playing a crucial role in saving the Siberian Crane from extinction in this region.
The park's most distinctive feature is its network of artificial wetlands and dykes, carefully managed to maintain optimal water levels for its resident and migratory birds. The Python Point and Keoladeo Temple are popular landmarks within the park. The raised paths and trails, totaling 11 kilometers, provide excellent opportunities for walking and cycling tours. The park's observation towers offer strategic viewing points for wildlife photography and bird watching. The visitor center houses an informative museum displaying the park's history and ecological significance. The unique mix of natural and man-made features makes it one of the finest bird sanctuaries in the world.
Keoladeo National Park experiences a semi-arid climate with distinct seasons. Winters (October to February) are mild and pleasant with temperatures ranging from 8°C to 25°C, making it the ideal time for bird watching. Summers (March to June) are extremely hot with temperatures soaring up to 48°C. The monsoon season (July to September) brings moderate rainfall, averaging 650mm annually, which is crucial for maintaining the park's wetland ecosystem. The best time to visit is between October and March when migratory birds arrive and the weather is comfortable for exploration.
India
27.1670°, 77.5330°
1982
28.73
Keoladeo is a famous avian sanctuary that was once a duck hunting reserve of the Maharajas. The park is home to over 370 species of birds and other wildlife. It is particularly known for hosting several species of cranes, including the rare Siberian Crane, and serves as an important wintering ground for migratory waterfowl.