The Park
Situated at the confluence of the Gambhir and Banganga rivers in the Bharatpur
district of Rajasthan, the sanctuary was originally a natural depression prone to
seasonal flooding. Over a period of time it developed into a lush, thriving system
of freshwater marshes that attracted a large and diverse population of migratory
birds. The Maharajas of Bharatpur added some bunds (dykes) and developed it as a
duck shooting reserve. You can see the list of their exploits inside the park.Getting around:
A short straight road from the main gate takes you past the barrier, from where the
core area begins, to the centre of the park. Apart from the conventional method of
exploring the park on foot, we can also arrange a bicycle though the most preferred
mode is a cycle rickshaw tour. Our handpicked rickshaw guides double up as excellent
naturalists. Since they have been going to the park almost every day for years, they
are ones who have the most recent update about good breeding areas and where to find
what. In the event of a good monsoon, you also have the option of taking a leisurely
boat ride. (subject to the water level in the park) Boating gives you close access
to nesting sites and is extremely rewarding for photography. Each gives a unique
dimension to the Keoladeo experience. To explore the birdlife at nearby Ajan Bund
reservoir and Bund Baretha, we can also arrange a taxi. 