Well, if you like Delhi, apart from the concrete jungle of buildings and roads, there are not many options to look at. The north, west, and east parts of Delhi are almost devoid of green spaces. South Delhi is still aloof from such activities and offers to let Delhiites get a feel of nature away from the busy schedule of city life.
Okhla bird sanctuary, situated at the barrage of the Yamuna river, is a beautiful bird sanctuary. The bird sanctuary, which covers an area of 4 square kilometers, was declared by the up government in 1990 under the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972.
A fascinating place for birdwatchers, the sanctuary is home to 300 bird species. Around 1 lakh migratory birds visit the place in the winter months. It’s been recorded that 30% of the 1200 to 1300 species on the Indian subcontinent visit the place.
If you name it, then Okhla Bird Sanctuary in India is home to many species of birds. Some of the common birds found in this sanctuary include the Black-necked Stork, Asian Openbill, Woolly-necked Stork, Painted Stork, White-throated Kingfisher, Eurasian Spoonbill, Indian Cormorant, Little Egret, Great Egret, Grey Heron, Purple Heron, Black-crowned Night Heron, Indian Pond Heron, Cattle Egret, Common Moorhen, White-breasted Waterhen, Purple Swamphen, Little Grebe, Indian Roller, Pheasant-tailed Jacana, Black-winged Stilt, Common Kingfisher, White-bellied Drongo, Red-wattled Lapwing, River Tern, Little Ringed Plover, Garganey, Northern Shoveler, Common Teal, and Eurasian Wigeon.
Concern
Infrastructural development in the form of commercial complexes, DnD expressways, and Ambedkar Park nearby has reduced the birds’ turnout to a low level. In 2013, the National Green Tribunal ordered a halt to all construction activities within a 10-kilometer radius of the Sanctuary. If any activity is continuing from prior times, the National Board for Wild Life (NBWL) should not issue complete certification. In 2014, the Supreme Court upheld the order.
Entry fees
For Indian citizens – Rs 10
Indian citizen with vehicle- Rs 100
For foreign – Rs 250
Foreign with vehicle- Rs 500
Guided tours
The bird sanctuary offers a guided tour facility that can be booked online or directly through the sanctuary office. It includes the introduction of birds, bird-watching tips, and the chance to see rare species.
Best time to visit Okhla Bird Sanctuary
November to February, when migratory birds migrate from central Asia and Siberia to avoid extreme winter.
Photography
Visitors should obtain permission from authorities to capture anything inside the sanctuary.
Timing of Okhla Bird Sanctuary
Summer – 7:00 am to 5:30 pm
Winter – 7:30 am to 5:00 pm.
How to Reach Okhla Bird Sanctuary
By Road: Okhla Bird Sanctuary is well connected by road. One can take a taxi, or bus, or drive on their own from Delhi, Noida, or nearby areas. The sanctuary is located on the Delhi-Noida-Delhi (DND) Expressway and is easily accessible from all parts of the city.
By Metro Train: The nearest metro station to Okhla Bird Sanctuary is the Botanical Garden Metro Station on the Blue Line. From the metro station, one can take a taxi or an autorickshaw to reach the sanctuary.
By Train: The nearest railway station to Okhla Bird Sanctuary is the Hazrat Nizamuddin Railway Station in Delhi, which is approximately 13 km away. From the station, one can take a taxi or a bus to reach the sanctuary.
By Air: The nearest airport to Okhla Bird Sanctuary is the Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi, which is approximately 35 km away. From the airport, one can take a taxi or a bus to reach the sanctuary.