Sultanpur Bird Sanctuary

Sultanpur Bird Sanctuary (the celebrated Sultanpur National Park, Ramsar designated wetland of international importance, and historic avian oasis) in Gurgaon in Haryana, stands as northern India's premier habitat for wintering migratory waterfowl and native birdlife.

Established in 1972 following conservation efforts by legendary Indian ornithologist Dr. Salim Ali, this protected 352 acre wetland comprises a shallow natural lake surrounded by native acacia trees, marsh reeds, and open grassy meadows.

It's the home of bar headed geese grazing on sunlit shores, painted storks nesting across treetop colonies, northern pintails and shovellers skimming cool waters, four elevated watchtowers surveying misty reeds, and quiet walking paths shaded by babool trees.

It represents a rich union of ecological conservation, avian migration science, and outdoor exploration where protected wetlands, Damdama Lake waterways, Sohna sulfur springs, and Sheetala Devi Temple pilgrimage sanctums unite around Gurgaon.

Located along the Gurgaon Farrukhnagar Road, it sits 15 km west of central Gurgaon, 16 km from Gurgaon Railway Station (GGN), and 40 km from Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL), easily reached by highway car or tourist taxi.

Central Asian Flyway, Migratory Flocks & Salim Ali Heritage

Every winter between November and February, more than 250 distinct avian species converge here along the Central Asian Flyway from breeding grounds in Siberia, Central Asia, and Eastern Europe.

Birdwatchers frequently spot graceful sarus crane pairs, black necked storks, spot billed pelicans, common cranes, and raptorial visitors including greater spotted eagles and marsh harriers.

Four strategically positioned watchtowers provide panoramic viewing angles over the lake, while paved walking tracks enable quiet foot exploration without disturbing sensitive bird habitats.

Truth is, the park's Dr. Salim Ali Interpretation Centre features comprehensive exhibits detailing migratory flight paths, bird calls, and wetland ecology for students and researchers.

Damdama Lake, Sohna Springs & Sheetala Devi Links

Damdama Lake: Situated 35 km southeast in the Aravalli hills, this large natural reservoir provides family pedal boating and lakeside camping getaways.

Sohna Springs: Located 40 km southeast, this historic town features natural sulfur hot springs and scenic hilltop fort ruins.

Sheetala Devi Temple: Resting 14 km east in central Gurgaon, this celebrated Shakti shrine welcomes millions of devotees during annual Navratri fairs.

Sultanpur Birding Day Plan & Trail Route

The Winter Birding & Wetland Circuit: Departure from Gurgaon (6:30 AM) -> arrive at Sultanpur National Park gates at sunrise (7:00 AM: hire a certified binoculars guide) -> walk along lakeside trail to Watchtower One (7:15 AM to 8:45 AM: observe dawn flights of geese) -> circuit past Watchtowers Two and Three (8:45 AM to 10:30 AM: spot kingfishers and raptors) -> visit Dr. Salim Ali Interpretation Centre (10:30 AM to 11:30 AM) -> lunch at Rosy Pelican resort (12:00 PM to 1:15 PM) -> afternoon drive to Sheetala Devi Temple (2:00 PM to 3:45 PM) -> sunset excursion to Damdama Lake (4:30 PM to 6:30 PM) -> dinner in Gurgaon (7:30 PM).

Park Rules & Wildlife Ethics: Maintain absolute silence on walking trails; playing recorded bird calls or using laser pointers is strictly forbidden; plastic bags and disposable bottles must be deposited at the entrance; visitors must stay on paved perimeter tracks and refrain from entering marsh vegetation.

After observing the avian wonders of Sultanpur Bird Sanctuary, proceed to explore the boating waters of Damdama Lake, the thermal springs of Sohna, or the sacred halls of Sheetala Devi Temple.