The park is renowned for its rich avifauna, hosting over 250 bird species. Notable winter visitors include Siberian Cranes, Greater Flamingos, Greylag Geese, and Northern Pintails. Resident birds include Purple Sunbird, Common Hoopoe, Indian Roller, and various species of kingfishers, herons, and egrets. Besides birds, the park supports mammals like Nilgai (Blue Bull), Black-naped Hare, and small Indian Mongoose. Reptiles including Monitor Lizards and various snake species are also found within the park boundaries.
The vegetation of Sultanpur National Park consists primarily of dry deciduous forest and scrub. Key tree species include Acacia nilotica (Babul), Prosopis juliflora, and Salvadora persica. The aquatic vegetation includes water lilies, hydrilla, and various algae that support the park's ecosystem. The park's periphery features grasslands and woodland areas with native species like Ziziphus mauritiana (Ber) and Capparis decidua. This diverse plant life provides essential habitat and food sources for resident and migratory birds.
The park is situated in the Indo-Gangetic plains, characterized by flat terrain with a shallow depression that forms the central lake. The soil is primarily alluvial, consisting of sand, silt, and clay deposits. The main water body is an artificial lake covering approximately 1.21 square kilometers, maintained through a regulated water management system. The surrounding area features gentle slopes and small mounds, creating various microhabitats that support diverse flora and fauna.
Sultanpur National Park was established in 1971 after noted ornithologist Dr. Salim Ali recognized the area's importance as a bird habitat. Originally known as Sultanpur Bird Sanctuary, it was upgraded to National Park status in 1989. The lake around which the park is centered was originally a natural depression that collected rainwater, later enhanced through conservation efforts. The park gained prominence during British rule when it became a popular hunting ground, but was later transformed into a protected area to preserve its unique ecosystem and bird life.
The park's main attraction is its central lake with strategically placed watch towers offering excellent bird viewing opportunities. A well-maintained interpretation center provides detailed information about the park's biodiversity. The park features four towers named Heron, Kingfisher, Pelican, and Flamingo, offering different vantage points for wildlife observation. A 3-kilometer nature trail circles the lake, making it ideal for nature walks and photography. The park also includes an education center, library, and museum displaying specimens and information about local wildlife.
Sultanpur National Park experiences a semi-arid climate typical of the Delhi-NCR region. Summers (April to June) are hot and dry with temperatures reaching up to 45°C, while winters (November to February) are cool and pleasant with temperatures ranging from 5-20°C. The monsoon season occurs from July to September, bringing moderate rainfall. The best time to visit is between October and March when the weather is mild and migratory birds are present in large numbers. Morning hours offer the most comfortable conditions for bird watching and nature walks.
India
28.4670°, 76.9000°
1989
1.43
Sultanpur National Park is a famous bird sanctuary known for hosting migratory birds during winter. The park features artificial lakes and wetlands that attract numerous bird species. It serves as an important stopover for birds on the Central Asian Flyway.