Nandur Madhmeshwar Bird Sanctuary

"While there is some merit in this being called the "Bharatpur of Maharashtra", I sincerely feel that is more of an emotional appeal than an actual understanding of the place.

The approach road is in terrible condition at patches, so factor that in while getting here for more travel time.

The Birdwatching towers overlook the wetlands, but most of them have thorny shrubs growing at the entrance very densely, making it impossible to enter.

The larger watchtowers can accommodate multiple Birdwatchers, but are placed a fair distance from the best areas of the wetlands.

If you're coming here with anything less than a 500mm lens, you will be relying more on luck than opportunities.

I still give it a 5 star rating in the hope that things get better over time, but have given an honest review that should help people coming here set expectations accordingly."

R C F

"Heaven for birdwatchers. You can see thousands of birds in the winter season. Count of flemingo is in doubt. Because in 2024 they visited 12-13 numbers only.

The forest department managed this in a well manner. Per person 50rs ticket, 20 for parking and 50 for binoculars. They provide binoculars is the best thing.

There are mainly 3 watch towers. And you can see thousands of birds from these 3 watch towers. They are in line and parallel to the backwater.

Winter is the best season to visit because many migratory birds visit this place in winter. Painted stork, frey heron, and plenty of ducks are the main attraction.

Must visit this place."

Kedar Dhepe

"The Nandur Madhmeshwar Bird Sanctuary, located in Maharashtra’s Nashik District, is often referred to as the “Bharatpur of Maharashtra.” Recognized as the state’s first Ramsar site, this wetland was formed by the construction of the Nandur Madhmeshwar Dam between 1907 and 1913. The dam, built at the confluence of the Godavari and Kadwa rivers, was designed to supply irrigation water to the districts of Nashik, Ahmednagar, and Aurangabad and underwent reconstruction in 2008.

Spanning 1,765 hectares, the sanctuary is a rich haven of biodiversity, hosting 536 species of aquatic and terrestrial plants, eight mammal species, 265 species of birds, 24 species of freshwater fish, and 41 butterfly species. The landscape features 23 pristine lakes and numerous smaller ponds, forming the foundation of a thriving wetland ecosystem. Recognized by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), the sanctuary plays a crucial role in supporting waterfowl and various aquatic species, contributing to global biodiversity conservation.

Visitors can experience the natural symphony of bird calls echoing throughout the sanctuary, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and birdwatchers. The sight of large gatherings of night herons is particularly striking. Though the visitor facilities are satisfactory, the sanctuary could benefit from better on-site interpretation. Local products are available at a few shops run by the Eco-Development Committee (EDC).

However, the wetland faces challenges from invasive species like water hyacinth and typha weeds. Trained nature guides are available to enhance the visitor experience, and while the area can be accessed via trekking paths, patrolling is conducted through kayaking. Witnessing the sunrise amid the chirping of birds adds to the sanctuary’s allure, offering a truly enchanting experience for wildlife enthusiasts."

Ankit Singh