When most people think of Maharashtra, they picture the fast-paced streets of Mumbai or the historic forts of Pune. But hidden in between all the chaos is something peaceful, something magical, it’s the bird sanctuaries. From wetlands and lakes to forests and grasslands, the bird sanctuaries of Maharashtra offer a refreshing escape into nature. These quiet corners of the state are perfect for anyone who loves birdwatching, photography, or just wants to slow down and soak in the natural beauty.
Why These Bird Sanctuaries Are So Special
What makes the best bird sanctuaries of Maharashtra stand out is their incredible variety. Whether you’re hoping to spot flamingos dancing across a lake or hear the call of an Indian roller echo through the trees, you’ll find something special in every visit. These sanctuaries aren’t just beautiful—they play an important role in preserving biodiversity and giving migratory birds a safe place to rest.
Top 5 bird sanctuaries of Maharashtra
Jayakwadi Bird Sanctuary
Located in Aurangabad district, this place is 50 km away from the main center of the city. There are many beautiful and small beaches here which are the ponds of Nathsagar. All these are made from the Godavari river. Greenery, green vegetation and beautiful trees etc. are seen on these beaches. That’s why many birds also live here. According to the records, the water keeps flowing on these beautiful beaches and more than 200 species of birds can be seen here, including indigenous and migratory birds. Here cranes, shovelers, godwits and brahminy ducks etc. are found in abundance.
- Best time to visit: Between October and March
- Location: Paithan, Maharashtra 431148
- Safari timing and price: 08:00 am to 05:00pm Entry Free
- Distance from Pune and Mumbai: 5 hr 59 min (215.8 km From Pune), (52 km From Aurangabad)
Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve
The largest national park in Maharashtra is the Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve, which is spread over 625 square meters. It was established in 1995. It is located in Chandrapur district and is known for its tiger population. This is the main attraction of this National Park. However, many species of plants, birds and other animals are also found here. This place is equally popular among nature lovers and wildlife photographers. If you are looking for a place near Nagpur where you can do photography, then Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve can come. Here you can capture many rare birds in your camera. The most common species of birds found here include Indian Pitta, Orange Headed Thrush and Paradise Flycatcher. You can also see many peacocks here.
- Best time to visit: Peak summer around May.
- Location: Chandrapur, Maharashtra 442401
- Safari timing and price: 06:30 AM – 11:00 AM & 02:30 PM – 06:30 PMINR 1000 / Person (Maximum 18 Persons are allowed in ONE Canter)
- Distance from Pune and Mumbai: (786km From Pune), (828.1 km From Mumbai Maharashtra)
Bhigwan Bird Sanctuary
This small village situated on the border of Pune and Solapur district is very famous among wildlife photographers for Bhigwan Bird Sanctuary. If you live in Maharashtra and enjoy wildlife photography, then you must visit this wonderful place once. Many migratory and indigenous birds live here. Bhigwan Bird Sanctuary is most famous for flamingos. One can spot herons, egrets, painted storks and several species of raptors here among other species. Today more than 250 species of birds live here. It is also known as Mini Bharatpur.
- Best time to visit: Between the months of November and March.
- Location: Bhigwan, Maharashtra 413130
- Safari timing and price: 6.30 AM–6 PM (Mon, Wed, Thur) 6AM-6PM (Tus, Fri, ) 6AM-5.30PM(Sun) INR30
- Distance from Pune and Mumbai: 2 hr 16 min (104.4 km) via Mumbai,
Tansa Wildlife Sanctuary
For bird watching and photography one can visit Tansa Wildlife Sanctuary, 90 km away from Mumbai city. This is the best place to hang out close to nature on weekends. Adorned by the Tansa Lake, this beautiful sanctuary is home to many beautiful birds like hornbills, woodpeckers, crested serpent eagles, egrets and bulbuls. Apart from birds, one can also see many species of butterflies and animals here. If you want to fulfill your photography hobby around Mumbai, then definitely come to this place. You can see lakes, forests, flora and diverse wildlife here.
- Best time to visit: November through May.
- Location: Tanasa, Maharashtra 421601
- Safari timing and price: 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM INR650
- Distance from Pune and Mumbai: 4 hr 41 min (212.5 km) via Bengaluru – Mumbai Hwy/Mumbai Hwy/Mumbai – Pune Hwy/Mumbai – Satara Hwy
Nandur Madhmeshwar Bird Sanctuary
Nandur Madhameswar Bird Sanctuary, famous for herons, egrets and flamingos, is one of the least visited places in Maharashtra. That’s why the crowd of tourists is less here and due to this you can comfortably watch the birds here. This place is a prosperous part of Maharashtra, 38 km from the main center of the city in Nashik district Apart from the above mentioned species of birds, you can also see species of osprey, ibis, pintail and harrier here. You can plan to visit Nandur Madhmeshwar Bird Sanctuary on this weekend.
- Best time to visit: October, November, December, February, and March.
- Location: Chapadgaon, Maharashtra 422210
- Safari timing and price: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM Rs. 10 per 6-12 Yrs and Rs. 20 Per Adults.
- Distance from Pune and Mumbai: 4 hr 53 min (208.3 km) via NH60
Best Time to Visit
Your best condition for birdwatching is between November and March, when a large number of migration birds come. The most beneficial in the early morning – filled with quite, cool and movement.
A Few Tips Before You Go
- If you enjoy photography, bring binoculars and a good camera.
- Dress in soil colors to mix in the atmosphere.
- Be silent and be patient -the shy are shy but curious creatures.
- Respect local rules and avoid garbage.
Conclusion
If you’re someone who is excited to see a kingfisher diving for fish or getting to witness a group of flamingos take off together, you should take a look at the best bird sanctuaries in Maharashtra. These are calm, inspiring, and reminders that nature exists in even the busiest areas of our world.
So, pack your binoculars and your camera, and give yourself the opportunity to connect with Maharashtra in the most serene way possible with birds.
More Sanctuaries Await
FAQ’s
Maharashtra is home to around 12 officially recognized bird sanctuaries, each offering a unique habitat for both resident and migratory birds. These include well-known spots like Nandur Madhmeshwar, Jayakwadi, Karnala, and Mayani. The bird sanctuaries of Maharashtra are ideal for birdwatching and nature tourism.
Some of the popular bird sanctuaries found in Maharashtra are Nandur Madhmeshwar Sanctuary in Nashik, Jayakwadi Bird Sanctuary in Aurangabad, and Karnala Bird Sanctuary near Mumbai. These are among the best bird sanctuaries of Maharashtra for spotting a wide variety of birds, especially in winter.
Maharashtra has a total of 49 wildlife sanctuaries, out of which 12 are primarily bird sanctuaries. These sanctuaries help protect various species of birds, mammals, and other wildlife while offering eco-tourism opportunities.
The Nandur Madhmeshwar Bird Sanctuary is one of the most famous bird sanctuaries in Maharashtra. It is often called the “Bharatpur of Maharashtra” due to its rich variety of over 200 bird species, making it a top spot for bird lovers.
The Greater Flamingo is one of the most famous migratory birds seen across many bird sanctuaries of Maharashtra, especially in places like Mayani and Jayakwadi. The Indian Peafowl, Maharashtra’s state bird, is also commonly spotted in forested regions.
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