Head To Offbeat Birding Destinations In India

If you have a keen eye for spotting avian wonders, then it is just the right season to plan your next birdwatching expedition. And if you have already begun doing so, it is just the moment to venture out to newer grounds. While many sanctuaries, like the Keoladeo National Park in Rajasthan, have gained popularity for welcoming several migratory birds during winter, India is lucky to house more destinations, of which many are even lesser-known. If you are ready to explore them, get your camera and binoculars ready and head to one of these lesser-known birdwatching destinations in India:

Harike, Punjab

Located near the convergence of the Beas and Sutlej rivers, Harike Wetland was recognised by the Ramsar Convention in 1990. Though this place is not known as a tourist hub but, if you’re looking for birdwatching, then the place has a plethora of rarely sighted species, such as the horned grebe, rufous vented grass babbler and Jerson’s babbler. 

Munsiyari, Uttarakhand

Munsiyari is a serene village located in the Pithoragarh district of Uttarakhand. Nestled between the snowy mountains of the Himalayas and offering awe-inspiring views of its environs, this scenic hill station is situated at an altitude of 2,298 metres above sea level. Here, you can spot over 319 species of birds, including rare, endemic, and endangered ones such as the beautiful monal and other Himalayan birds. The place is often compared to Kashmir for its beauty. 

Arippa, Kerala

Situated on the edge of Thiruvananthapuram-Shenkottai State Highway in Kollam district, Arippa is a beautiful place to spot birds and harmonise with nature. The lush green forest of Arippa houses several species of owls, the majestic black eagle, trogon species, and over 270 species of birds can be found here. 

Karimganj, Assam

Karimganj District in Assam is home to some of the most pristine forests in India, which are waiting to be explored by many Indian birdwatchers. The district boasts a remarkable variety of birdlife, including the endemic Cachar bulbul, black-headed bulbul, large scimitar babbler, purple-throated sunbird, Asian stubtail, golden-crested myna, and great slaty woodpecker. In addition to these feathered inhabitants, the forests of Karimganj are home to a diverse range of mammals, including clouded leopards, leopard cats, sloth bears, sun bears, and Bengal slow lorises.

Chiplun, Maharashtra

Chiplun is a small city located in the Ratnagiri district of Maharashtra. It is well-known for its beautiful white sandy beaches, as well as its delicate mango and cashew groves. The city lies close to the Vashti river and the western ghats are situated towards its east. The presence of the western ghats has resulted in a diverse range of wildlife, with over 350 species of birds, including both local and migratory varieties, making it their home. Oriental Dwarf Kingfisher is one of the most notable birds found in the region.