Top 5 Bird Watching Destinations Near Delhi for a One-Day Trip

Bird watching is a calm and enjoyable way to spend time in nature. In Delhi NCR, there are many beautiful places where you can see different types of birds, both local and migratory. Whether you are planning a one-day outing near Delhi with your family or looking for a peaceful spot to relax with your partner, these bird sanctuaries are a great choice.

In this guide, you will find the best bird watching destinations near Delhi for a short trip. We’ve also shared details about the birds you can spot, entry fees, facilities, and useful tips to help you enjoy your visit.

Top 5 Bird Watching Destinations Near Delhi

Explore the top bird watching spots near Delhi for a peaceful nature escape. Perfect for a quick day trip, these destinations offer a chance to see beautiful migratory and resident birds up close.

1. Okhla Bird Sanctuary – Birding Haven in Noida

Okhla Bird Sanctuary is one of the most famous bird-watching spots located on the banks of the Yamuna River, right at the border of Delhi and Noida.

Covering over 4 square kilometers, this wetland is home to over 320 bird species, making it a favorite spot for birdwatchers. Whether you’re planning a 1-day outing near Delhi for family within 100 km or a relaxing nature walk, Okhla Bird Sanctuary provides the perfect escape.

Birds to See:

• Baikal Teal
  
• Sarus Crane
  
• Indian Skimmer
  
• Sociable Lapwing
  
• Grey-headed Fish Eagle
  

Location: Sector 95, Noida, Uttar Pradesh
Timings: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Daily)
Entry Fee: INR 30 for Indians, INR 350 for foreigners
How to Reach:
Easily accessible by car, making it ideal for a one-day trip from Delhi by car. It takes around 30-40 minutes to reach.

Highlights:

• Ideal for spotting migratory birds in winter
• Great for a one-day outing near Delhi for couples
• Bird photography opportunities with serene surroundings

2. Surajpur Bird Sanctuary – Hidden Gem in Greater Noida

If you are looking for a one-day outing near Delhi NCR that takes you away from the city’s chaos, Surajpur Bird Sanctuary in Greater Noida is a perfect option.

Spread over 308 hectares, this wetland ecosystem attracts numerous migratory birds, making it a paradise for birdwatchers.

Birds to See:

• Red-Crested Pochard
  
• Comb Duck
  
• Bar-Headed Goose
  
• Common Teal
  
• Greater Flamingos
  

Location: Surajpur, Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh
Timings: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Daily)
Entry Fee: Free Entry
How to Reach:
Located just 40 km from Delhi, this sanctuary is ideal for a one-day trip from Delhi by car. It takes about 1 hour to reach.

Highlights:

• Ideal for 1-day outing near Delhi for family within 100 km
• Perfect for nature walks and photography
• Peaceful wetland area with an abundance of avian species

3. Sultanpur Bird Sanctuary – Birdwatcher’s Paradise

Situated about 40 km from Delhi in Gurugram, Sultanpur Bird Sanctuary is a haven for both resident and migratory birds. It is home to many resident and migratory birds, especially in the winter season. The sanctuary is perfect for a short nature trip to enjoy bird watching and photography near Delhi.

Birds to See:

• Painted Stork
  
• Northern Pintail
  
• Black-necked Stork
  
• Eurasian Wigeon
  
• Siberian Crane
  

Location: Gurgaon-Farukh Nagar Road, Sultanpur, Haryana
Timings: 7:00 AM – 4:30 PM (Closed on Tuesdays)
Entry Fee: INR 5 for Indians, INR 40 for foreigners
How to Reach:
Easily accessible via NH48, about 50 minutes by car. Ideal for a one-day trip from Delhi by car.

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Highlights:

• Bird hides and observation towers for a closer look
• Ideal destination for one-day outing near Delhi for couples
• Photography-friendly environment with serene surroundings

4. Asola Bhatti Wildlife Sanctuary – Nature Retreat with Birds

Located near Tughlaqabad in Delhi, Asola Bhatti Wildlife Sanctuary is a treasure trove of biodiversity. Covering over 6,874 acres of forested land, it offers an excellent chance to experience a mix of birdwatching and nature exploration.

Birds to See:

• Peafowl
  
• Black Francolin
  
• Paradise Flycatcher
  
• Shikra
  
• Indian Grey Hornbill
  

Location: Shooting Range Road, Tughlakabad, New Delhi
Timings: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Daily)
Entry Fee: INR 50 per person
How to Reach: Situated just 25 km from Delhi, easily accessible by car or cab.

Highlights:

• Ideal for a 1-day outing near Delhi for family
• Eco-tourism activities and nature trails
• Great for combining birdwatching with trekking

5. Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary (Keoladeo National Park)

Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary, located about 180 km from Delhi, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, also known as Keoladeo National Park. This sanctuary is famous for its rich biodiversity and is a must-visit destination for bird watchers, especially during the migratory season.

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Birds to See:

• Painted Stork
  
• White Ibis
  
• Spoonbill
  
• Indian Darter
  
• Pelicans
  

Location: Bharatpur, Rajasthan
Timings: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Daily)
Entry Fee: INR 75 for Indians, INR 500 for foreigners
How to Reach: Accessible via NH19, approximately a 3.5-hour drive from Delhi. Ideal for a 2-day outing near Delhi for family.

Highlights:

• UNESCO World Heritage Site with excellent biodiversity
• Guided tours and cycle rentals for exploring the park
• Best visited in winter for spotting migratory birds

Pro Tips for a Memorable Bird Watching Experience

1. Best Time to Visit:
The best season for bird watching near Delhi is during the winter months (October to March), as this is when migratory birds flock to these sanctuaries.

2. Carry Binoculars and Camera:
Binoculars enhance your birdwatching experience, while a camera helps capture the beauty of rare species.

3. Wear Comfortable Clothing:
Opt for muted colors to blend with the environment and wear comfortable walking shoes for long trails.

4. Visit Early Morning or Late Afternoon:
Birds are most active during these times, increasing your chances of spotting rare species.

Conculsion

The bird watching destinations near Delhi are great places to enjoy peace, nature, and beautiful birds. These spots are perfect for a one-day trip with family, friends, or your partner. Places like Okhla, Sultanpur, and Surajpur are some of the best bird watching destinations where you can see many colorful birds, especially in the winter season. You don’t need to go far—these places are close to the city and easy to reach by car. So, if you love nature and want a short break from busy city life, plan a bird watching trip and enjoy the beauty of birds and fresh air.