This Sunday is World Wildlife Day and that makes for the perfect opportunity for wildlife enthusiasts in the city to step out for a serene and fascinating day out. Luckily for Lucknowites, there are several wildlife attractions around the city, including bird-watching walks that can turn out to be the perfect one-day-trip.
To help you plan a ‘Super Sunday’, here are brief introductions on these birdwatching spots and sanctuaries to take in the wildlife, at its majestic best.
Sandi Bird Sanctuary
Located in the Bilgram Tehsil of Hardoi, Sandi Bird Sanctuary is also one of UP’s Ramsar sites. During the migratory season, this place witnesses a range of visitors of the avian variety, including the likes of Brahmini-Duck, Red-Crested Pochard, Eurasian Wigeon, Coot, Garganey Teal, and Northern Shoveller, among others.
Distance: 137.2 km from Lucknow via Agra-Lucknow Expressway
Kukrail Forest and Gharial Park
If you’re a wee bit tired and don’t want to take up a long journey, the Kukrail Forest and Gharial Park in Lucknow is also visited by a diverse range of birds. And guess what? The March to April period is the best time to visit the place for birdwatching, which houses over 200 different species of resident and migratory birds.
Where: Chandanpur, Indira Nagar, Lucknow
Nawabganj Bird Sanctuary
Among the most popular spots near Lucknow for birders and photographers alike, the Nawabganj Bird Sanctuary is home to some of the most-clicked local and migratory birds. Some of the famous avians include the Sarus Crane, Painted Stork, Dabchick, and the Open-Bill Stork.
Where: Nawabganj tehsil, Unnao District
Bakhira Sanctuary
One of the most beautiful water birds to be found in India, the Grey-Headed Swamphen visits this relatively lesser-known sanctuary, just 250 km from Lucknow. Take a 4-hour drive this Sunday on NH27 and you might just be able to spot the majestic water bird that is favorite of many birders.
Where: Khalilabad, Tarbarachh, Uttar Pradesh
Ekana Wetlands
Did you know that Ekana Wetlands is among the best birdwatching sites in Lucknow. Located right behind the stadium, the wetlands house a minimum of 17 bird species belonging to 8 different families and 6 orders.
Where: Mastemau, Ahmamau, Lucknow
