Sultanpur Bird Sanctuary - A Bird Watcher's Guide for Gurgaon

Gurgaon, HaryanaWILDLIFE

A well-known bird-watching site near Gurgaon, featuring a lake, walking trails, and watchtowers for observing resident and migratory bird species.

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Info

WILDLIFE

Info

Half day (3-4 hours)

Accessibility

Not Wheelchair Friendly

Parking

Parking Available

Photography

Photography Allowed

About the Destination

Overview

Sultanpur Bird Sanctuary, officially Sultanpur National Park, is a popular spot for bird watchers located just outside Gurgaon. The park centers around a large lake, which becomes a seasonal home for thousands of migratory birds during the winter. A circular walking trail, about four kilometers long, loops around the lake, allowing visitors to explore the area at their own pace. Four strategically placed watchtowers, or 'machans', provide elevated viewpoints to observe the birds without disturbing them. You'll see a mix of wetland, woodland, and scrubland habitats, which support a wide variety of bird species. The experience is primarily about quiet observation and walking. Apart from the birds, you might also spot animals like nilgai (blue bull) and jackals. The park has a simple, natural feel, focusing more on conservation than on being a manicured tourist park. An interpretation center near the entrance offers basic information about the park's ecosystem and the species found here.

Contact Information

Phone: -2015703

Website: haryanaforest.gov.in/en/sultanpur-national-park

Why This Place is Special

• Winter migratory birds, including the Siberian crane and greater flamingo
• Over 250 species of resident and migratory birds
• A 4 km circular walking and bird-watching trail
• Four well-placed watchtowers (machans) for observation
• Opportunities for wildlife and bird photography
• A crucial wetland ecosystem in the National Capital Region
• Sightings of Nilgai (Blue Bull) along the trails

Ideal For

Nature loversPhotographersFamiliesSolo travelersKidsSenior citizens

Facilities & Amenities

• Parking
• Restrooms
• Drinking water
• Seating areas
• Information center
• Binocular rentals

Visitor Tips

• Visit between 7:00 AM and 9:00 AM for the best bird sightings and pleasant weather.
• Weekdays are much quieter than weekends, which can get crowded, especially during peak season.
• Carry binoculars and a camera with a zoom lens for a better experience. Binoculars are also available for rent at the entrance.
• Wear comfortable walking shoes as the trail is unpaved and covers a few kilometers.
• Wear clothes in earthy tones like brown, green, or beige to blend in with the surroundings and avoid startling the birds.
• Bring your own water bottle and some light snacks, as food options inside are very limited.
• Maintain silence on the trails and in the watchtowers to not disturb the wildlife.
• The park is closed during the summer and monsoon seasons (usually June to September) for breeding, so check the status before planning a visit.

Rules & Restrictions

• Do not play loud music or make noise.
• Do not feed the birds or any other animals.
• Littering is strictly prohibited.
• Stay on the designated walking paths.
• Pets are not allowed inside the park.
• Use of drones is forbidden.

Safety Information

• Stay on the marked trails to avoid getting lost and to protect the habitat.
• Carry sufficient water, especially on sunny days, as the walk can be dehydrating.
• Be mindful of your belongings
• avoid leaving bags or valuables unattended in the watchtowers.
• The paths can be uneven
• watch your step to prevent trips or falls.
• While generally safe, it's a good practice to be aware of your surroundings, especially if visiting alone.
• Inform someone about your visit, as mobile network coverage can be patchy in some parts of the park.

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Location & Address

Gurgaon-Farrukhnagar Road, Sultanpur, Gurugram, Sultanpur, Gurgaon, Haryana, India

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Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit is from October to March. During these winter months, the weather is cool and pleasant, making the long walk enjoyable. This is also the period when thousands of migratory birds arrive from colder regions, making it the peak season for bird watching. The park is typically closed to visitors from June to September to allow the birds to breed without disturbance. Avoid the summer months of April and May due to the intense heat.
Peak Crowd: December to January, especially on weekends and public holidays, due to pleasant weather and peak migratory bird season.
Moderate Crowd: October, November, and February on weekdays.
Low Crowd: The park remains closed from June to September. Weekday mornings during the open season see the lowest footfall.

How to Reach

Air

Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) in Delhi is the nearest airport, about 35 km away. It takes approximately 1 to 1.5 hours to reach by taxi.

Train

Gurgaon Railway Station (GGN) is the closest major railway station, located about 15 km from the park. Taxis and auto-rickshaws are readily available from the station.

Road

The sanctuary is located on the Gurgaon-Farrukhnagar state highway. It is easily accessible by road from Gurgaon (15 km) and Delhi (about 50 km). You can drive or hire a cab for the journey.

Local Transport

Hiring a cab through services like Ola or Uber is the most common way to get here. Auto-rickshaws can also be hired from various parts of Gurgaon, though it's best to pre-negotiate the fare.

Food & Dining

Nearby restaurants near Sultanpur Bird Sanctuary

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