Okhla Bird Sanctuary
A 400-hectare wetland sanctuary teeming with resident and migratory birds, offering serene Yamuna River views and nature trails.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peak migratory bird season
Okhla Bird Sanctuary
Best Time
Peak migratory bird season
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 400-hectare wetland sanctuary teeming with resident and migratory birds, offering serene Yamuna River views and nature trails.
"A refreshing and enjoyable experience with plenty of greenery and a chance to spot a variety of birds."
🎯 Arrive Early for Parking
Parking can be chaotic. Beat the rush or use the nearby metro for a smoother arrival. :car: :metro:
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on the trails. Prioritize comfort for a better experience. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Migratory Bird Spectacle
Wetlands and water bodies
Witness hundreds of species from Siberia, Europe, and Asia during winter. A true avian paradise!
Yamuna River Views
Okhla Barrage
Enjoy serene views of the Yamuna River, which forms a picturesque lake and vital habitat.
Nature Trails
Throughout the sanctuary
Wander through lush greenery on well-maintained trails, spotting diverse flora and fauna.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Best Time for Birdwatching
Getting There & Parking
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive Early for Parking
Parking can be chaotic. Beat the rush or use the nearby metro for a smoother arrival. :car: :metro:
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on the trails. Prioritize comfort for a better experience. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Camera Gear Ready
Bring your binoculars and camera to capture the incredible birdlife. Charges apply for professional cameras. :camerawithflash:
💧 Stay Hydrated
Carry water, especially during warmer months. There are limited facilities inside. :droplet:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Early for Parking
Parking can be chaotic. Beat the rush or use the nearby metro for a smoother arrival. :car: :metro:
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on the trails. Prioritize comfort for a better experience. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Camera Gear Ready
Bring your binoculars and camera to capture the incredible birdlife. Charges apply for professional cameras. :camerawithflash:
💧 Stay Hydrated
Carry water, especially during warmer months. There are limited facilities inside. :droplet:
🧥 Dress in Layers
Mornings can be cool, warming up as the day progresses. Layers are key for comfort. :shirt:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Okhla Bird Sanctuary offers a refreshing natural escape with diverse birdlife and serene river views, making it a good spot for families and nature lovers. While the sanctuary itself is appreciated for its greenery and tranquility, visitors often point out issues with unmanaged parking and the need for better facilities. Despite these drawbacks, many find it a worthwhile visit for its natural beauty and birdwatching opportunities.
"I visited Okhla Bird Sanctuary recently and was quite disappointed. There were hardly any birds to see, and the place only had a single narrow one-way road that goes for about 1–2 km. It didn’t feel like a proper bird sanctuary experience at all. The area was mostly empty, except for a few couples around. Not really worth the visit if you’re expecting to see birds or enjoy nature"
Arya Kumari
"It's Good
Okhla Bird Sanctuary is a good place. Yes, there is very good greenery. A good road has been built. There is a good path to walk and a very nice view. If the weather is also good then it is very pleasant and one feels like sitting. But mostly couples are seen, there are migratory birds, so they come according to the season, the greenery is very good, overall I can give 6 marks out of 10"
Kaif Chouhan
"Visited Okhla Bird Sanctuary with my wife and kids, and overall, it was a refreshing and enjoyable experience. The sanctuary offers a peaceful escape from the city, with plenty of greenery, open space, and a chance to spot a variety of birds in their natural habitat. My kids had a great time walking around, spotting different species, and learning a bit about nature and wildlife. It’s a nice place for a relaxed family outing, especially if you enjoy being outdoors.
The walking trails are fairly well maintained, and there are a few watchtowers that provide good views of the water and bird activity. The environment felt calm and safe, and it was nice to see other families and nature lovers enjoying the space.
That said, the main drawback was the parking situation. The area around the entrance is quite congested, and there's no clearly managed or secure parking space, which made arrival a bit stressful. If you're planning to visit, it’s better to come early or consider alternative transport if possible.
Despite the parking issue, we left with a positive impression. The sanctuary is definitely worth a visit if you’re looking for a nature-based outing within the city."
Akhlaque Ahmed
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The closest metro station is Okhla Bird Sanctuary on the Magenta Line of the Delhi Metro. It's about a 300m walk from the station to the sanctuary entrance.
Yes, there is parking, but it's often congested and not well-managed. It's advisable to arrive early or consider using public transport to avoid parking hassles.
You can take the Delhi Metro's Magenta Line directly to Okhla Bird Sanctuary station. Alternatively, taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available.
While specific bus routes might vary, many local buses ply the routes near Noida, and you can alight at a stop close to the sanctuary and walk or take a short auto-rickshaw ride. It's best to check local transport apps for current routes.
Noida City Centre is approximately 10-12 km away from Okhla Bird Sanctuary. You can reach it via metro or a taxi/auto.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entry fee is Rs. 30 for Indian citizens and Rs. 350 for foreign tourists. There are additional charges for camera usage.
The sanctuary is open from 7 am to 5 pm daily. It's best to visit during these hours for optimal birdwatching.
Tickets can usually be purchased at the entrance. Booking in advance is generally not required, but it's always a good idea to check their official website for any updates.
Yes, there is a separate charge of Rs. 500 for camera usage, likely for professional equipment.
Yes, Okhla Bird Sanctuary is open every day of the week, including weekends, from 7 am to 5 pm.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can see over 300 species, including resident and migratory birds like the White-rumped Vulture, Indian Vulture, Sarus Crane, and Pallas's Fish Eagle.
Yes, the sanctuary has walking trails that are fairly well-maintained, allowing visitors to explore the diverse flora and fauna.
The winter months, from November to February, are considered the best time to visit as it's peak season for migratory birds.
Absolutely! Families often enjoy the open spaces, greenery, and the opportunity for kids to spot different bird species and learn about nature.
While there are basic facilities, it's recommended to carry your own water and snacks. Food stalls might be limited.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is allowed, but there's a specific charge of Rs. 500 for camera usage, likely for professional equipment.
Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best natural light for photography, creating a golden hour effect.
A telephoto lens is highly recommended for capturing birds from a distance. Binoculars are also essential for spotting them.
Drone usage is generally restricted in protected areas like bird sanctuaries to avoid disturbing wildlife. It's best to check with the authorities before attempting to fly a drone.
The watchtowers offer elevated views, and the areas around the water bodies are excellent for capturing birds in their natural habitat.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Encourage your kids to walk the trails and point out interesting birds or plants. The relatively short distance from the metro station also makes it accessible for families. Just remember to pack plenty of water and snacks, and ensure everyone wears comfortable shoes for the walking involved. Arriving early can help avoid the midday heat and potential crowds, making the experience more enjoyable for everyone.
🌿 Nature Enthusiasts & Birdwatchers
Explore the various walking trails and keep an eye on the water bodies and tree canopies. Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best opportunities for spotting birds and capturing stunning photographs in the soft light. Be prepared for a lot of walking and consider hiring a local guide if available for deeper insights into the bird species and their behaviors.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Avian Wonders of Okhla
Beyond the avian population, the sanctuary also supports a variety of other wildlife. You might encounter mammals like the Indian Grey Mongoose and Indian Hare, as well as reptiles such as the Indian Python and Common Indian Monitor Lizard. The flora is equally diverse, featuring wetland plants like water hyacinth and lotus, alongside terrestrial species, contributing to the overall ecological richness of the area.
For the best birdwatching experience, early mornings are highly recommended. This is when birds are most active, foraging and socializing. The soft morning light also provides excellent conditions for photography. Remember to bring binoculars to enhance your viewing pleasure and a good camera if you wish to capture the incredible sights.
Navigating Your Visit: Practicalities
The sanctuary features walking trails that are generally well-maintained, allowing for exploration of its natural beauty. Wear comfortable shoes as you'll likely be doing a fair amount of walking.
Regarding entry, the fees are nominal for Indian citizens (Rs. 30) and higher for foreign tourists (Rs. 350). There's also a separate charge for camera usage (Rs. 500), so factor this in if you plan on extensive photography. The sanctuary operates from 7 am to 5 pm daily, making it accessible for most of the day.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit