Top 10 Birdwatching Destinations In Maharashtra

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Bhigwan Bird Sanctuary

Known as the "Bharatpur of Maharashtra," Bhigwan is famous for hosting migratory birds, especially flamingos. The Ujani Dam backwaters attract a variety of bird species. You can spot Greater Flamingos, Painted Storks, Black-headed Ibis, Common Spoonbill, Bar-headed Geese, and Osprey.

Bhigwan Bird Sanctuary | Shutterstock

Kaas Plateau

Kaas Plateau in Satara is a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site known for its vibrant wildflowers and as a birdwatcher haven. You can spot various species of endemic and migratory birds here, including the Malabar Crested Lark, Indian Pitta, Oriental White-eye, Indian Yellow Tit and more.

Kaas Plateau | Shutterstock

Radhanagari Wildlife Sanctuary

Radhanagari in Kolhapur district is a sanctuary with diverse bird species, including hornbills, woodpeckers, and water birds. You may spot the Malabar Pied Hornbill, Asian Fairy Bluebird, White-bellied Sea Eagle, Crested Serpent Eagle, and Indian Pitta.

Asian Fairy Bluebird | Shutterstock

Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary

This sanctuary, located in the Western Ghats, is renowned for its abundant flora and fauna and is a popular destination for birdwatchers. The verdant environment attracts numerous bird species, including the Malabar pied hornbill.

Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary | Shutterstock

Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve

Tadoba is a tiger reserve with diverse habitats that also provide a home to many bird species, such as the Oriental Honey Buzzard, Grey-headed Fish Eagle, Crested Treeswift, Indian Pitta, and Sirkeer Malkoha.

Common Kingfisher at Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve | Shutterstock

Mayureshwar Wildlife Sanctuary

This sanctuary in the Pune district is known for its diverse bird population, including the critically endangered Great Indian Bustard. Other bird species you might spot here include the Indian Courser, Black-winged Stilt, Painted Sandgrouse, and Black Ibis.

Black-winged Stilts in Mayureshwar Wildlife Sanctuary | Shutterstock

Karnala Bird Sanctuary

Karnala, near Mumbai, is a popular spot for birdwatching with over 150 species of birds. You may spot Malabar Trogon, Malabar Lark, Paradise Flycatcher, Heart-spotted Woodpecker, Shama, and Magpie Robin.

Karnala Bird Sanctuary | Shutterstock

Phansad Wildlife Sanctuary

Phansad, near Alibaug, is a lesser-known sanctuary with diverse flora and fauna. Birdwatchers can spot Malabar Grey Hornbill, Crested Serpent Eagle, Changeable Hawk Eagle, Asian Paradise Flycatcher, and Brown-cheeked Fulvetta.

Nagzira Wildlife Sanctuary

Nagzira in Bhandara district is famous for its scenic beauty and diverse birdlife. You can spot resident and migratory birds like the Indian Pitta, Malabar Pied Hornbill, Orange-headed Thrush, Grey-headed Fish Eagle, and Changeable Hawk-Eagle.

Nagzira Wildlife Sanctuary | Shutterstock

Chandoli National Park

Chandoli National Park is home to a variety of birds, including the Indian Pitta, Indian Scimitar Babbler, Brown-capped Pygmy Woodpecker, Malabar Trogon, and Tickell's Blue Flycatcher.

Brown-capped Pygmy Woodpecker | Shutterstock

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