Bird Watching in Kotdwar: A Paradise for Nature Enthusiasts

Kotdwar is a picturesque town located in the Pauri Garhwal district of Uttarakhand, India. Known for its scenic beauty, pleasant climate, and abundant wildlife, it is fast becoming a popular destination for nature enthusiasts, especially bird watchers. The town is situated at the foothills of the Shivalik range and is home to a diverse range of bird species, making it an ideal location for bird watching.

One of the best places to go bird watching in Kotdwar is the Khirsu bird sanctuary. The sanctuary is spread over an area of 11.75 square kilometers and is home to over 200 species of birds. Some of the birds that can be spotted here include the Himalayan pied kingfisher, grey heron, white-throated kingfisher, black bulbul, and blue whistling thrush. The sanctuary is also home to several species of butterflies and moths, making it a must-visit location for nature lovers.

Another great place to go bird watching in Kotdwar is the Durga Devi temple. The temple is located in the midst of dense forests and is home to several species of birds, including the Himalayan vulture, red junglefowl, and the Indian peafowl. The temple is also a great spot for trekking and offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys.

Kotdwar is also a gateway to several other bird watching locations in Uttarakhand, such as the Corbett National Park and the Rajaji National Park. Both parks are known for their rich biodiversity and are home to several species of birds, including the great hornbill, crested serpent eagle, and the Himalayan griffon. The parks are also home to several other mammals, including tigers, elephants, and leopards, making them an excellent destination for wildlife enthusiasts.

If you are planning to go bird watching in Kotdwar, it is best to plan your trip between the months of November and April. During this period, the weather is pleasant, and several migratory bird species can be spotted in the area. It is also advisable to hire a local guide who can take you to the best bird watching spots and provide you with valuable insights into the local flora and fauna.

Kotdwar is a fantastic location for bird watching, with several places to explore and an abundance of bird species to discover. Whether you are a seasoned birder or a beginner, a visit to Kotdwar is sure to leave you with unforgettable memories and a newfound appreciation for the beauty of nature.

• Bird species: Himalayan pied kingfisher, grey heron, white-throated kingfisher, black bulbul, blue whistling thrush, Himalayan vulture, red junglefowl, Indian peafowl, great hornbill, crested serpent eagle, Himalayan griffon.
• Bird watching locations: Khirsu bird sanctuary, Durga Devi temple, Corbett National Park, Rajaji National Park.
• Time of year: November, April, migratory birds.
• Other wildlife: tigers, elephants, leopards, butterflies, moths.
• Local guide: hiring a local guide, insights into flora and fauna.
• Pauri Garhwal district, Uttarakhand, India.