Nal Sarovar Bird Sanctuary, Ahmedabad

One of the most favorite places to visit on a short weekend trip for us Amdavadis is Nal Sarovar. How frequently do you visit and what do you like about the place.

Nal Sarovar Bird Sanctuary is situated at a distance of 70 km away from Ahmedabad city. The lake and the surrounding swamp forests are popular spots for bird watching and it attracts thousands of tourists, ornithologist and bird lovers every year.

The sanctuary comprises of a huge lake that attracts birds from all parts of the world. Migrant birds such as flamingoes, pelicans, geese, ibises, geese, cranes, spoonbill, wading birds, swallows, fishing eagles, osprey, harriers and many others varieties are found in the sanctuary.

The lake has become a popular picnic spot during holidays and week ends. Here we can find swimming pool, children’s amusement park and other facilities for fun and entertainment.
Look forward to hearing from you.

Dear Hetal
I love to go on trips to such places as the sanctuary you described, but due to the Bird flus coming one after the other .. I'm a bit scared of going to these bird sanctuaries esp. As there are so many migratory birds and they could be carriers. My advice to all those who visit is just that do take care and precaution as that could save your life.
That does not mean that we sit at home and do not venture out. Just that if we could meet a doctor before hand we will not require to visit one later on.

Hi muzna, thanks for your message of 'caution'. But is bird flu a cause of worry in Nal Sarovar? As far as I know, bird flu mainly affects chicken and poultry animals. Does it really affect the birds there in the sanctuary.

Moreover, I see you are from Jammu, please share some information about life there in the J&K forum. What are th places to see and visit there.

Dear Hetal
The fact is that in the bird sanctuaries ...there is a large proportion of migratory birds, they come from all the corners of the world. If their home area is infected there is a chance of them being infected too.

You talked of Jammu... I'll come up with something soon.
Thanks for the idea.

Nal Sarovar is also one of my favorite places to visit when I come to Ahmedabad. You have to start very early in the morning from Ahmedabad if you really want to witness the beauty of the bird sanctuary with all the birds in it. As you know, Nal Sarovar is home to various migratory birds or ‘featheredbiped’ beings as Salim Ali, the famous ornithologist used to call them.

It is inspiring that Nal Sarovar in spite of being situated in a very arid region,attracts various birds. This is perhaps because of the contrast in the climate. The lake is spread over 115 square kilometers and ferry boats are available here which take you across the lake. Mainly inhabited by migratory birds in winter and spring, it is the largest wetland bird sanctuary in Gujarat, and one of the largest in India.

Have you visited Nal Sarovar? What do you like about the place.

Lovely picture Tanvi. Thank you so much for posting. I'd like to add an interesting and sweet information here. A major attraction of this sanctuary are the humming birds(world smallest bird). Nal Sarovar bird sanctuary also consists of the numerous islets that further enhance its charm.

When are you visiting it?

Dear friends, here's a news of concern, I'd like to share with you all. Nal Sarovar is witnessing some deadly nocturnal activity these days. Delayed monsoon has dried up the lake exposing flamingos and other winged visitors to poachers.

Every night villagers staying near the lake venture into the bird sanctuary stealthily, armed with small wooden clubs, which are otherwise used to wash clothes. The villagers use these weapons' to club flamingos to death. If the recovery of 1,055 nets near Nal Sarovar is an indicator, it is clear that poaching of the winged visitors is rampant in this sanctuary.

Wonder if the authorities are taking note. Do you know why these birds are poached?