India’s diverse landscapes are home to some of the most spectacular bird habitats in the world.
From lagoons to freshwater bodies, the country’s lakes transform into avian paradises every winter, attracting millions of migratory birds from across the globe. For nature lovers, photographers, and wildlife enthusiasts, these breathtaking destinations offer a front-row seat to one of nature’s most beautiful performances.
Top 10 Birdwatching Lakes in India During Winters
1. Chilika Lake, Odisha
Touted as the world’s largest salt and freshwater mixed lake, Chilika in Odisha is a true biodiversity hotspot.
- Every winter, its vast expanse welcomes over 160 migratory bird species, including geese, purple moorhens, jacanas, and white-bellied sea eagles.
- The lake is also one of the few places in India where visitors can spot the endangered dolphins gliding through its waters.
- Birdwatching tours, boat rides, and scenic sunsets make Chilika an essential stop for eco-travelers.
2. Nal Sarovar Lake, Gujarat
Located just a short drive from Ahmedabad, Nal Sarovar Bird Sanctuary is a peaceful wetland sanctuary.
- Declared a Ramsar site, it shelters more than 210 species of migratory birds that arrive each winter.
- As dawn awakens, the sky comes alive with flocks of flamingos, pelicans, and storks, creating a mesmerizing spectacle.
- Early morning boat rides here are perfect for photographers hoping to capture the tranquil beauty of western India’s top birdwatching destination.
3. Keoladeo Lake, Rajasthan
Situated within the famed Keoladeo National Park (Bharatpur), this man-made lake is recognized as one of Asia’s most important bird sanctuaries.
- With more than 400 bird species in its territory – bee-eaters and warblers to buntings and bulbuls – all thrive here.
- During the winter months, the park becomes a global hub for migratory birds arriving from Siberia, Central Asia, and beyond.
- A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Keoladeo is a paradise for birders and wildlife photographers alike.
4. Loktak Lake, Manipur
The enchanting Loktak Lake in Manipur stands out for its floating islands, known locally as ‘phumdis‘ — which are like mats of soil and vegetation that drift across the lake.
- This unique ecosystem supports numerous bird species, including pied hornbills, brown-backed hornbills, and migratory waterfowl.
- As the largest freshwater lake in Northeast India, Loktak offers both ecological richness and serene beauty, making it an unmissable gem for travelers exploring the region.
5. Deepor Beel, Assam
Located on the outskirts of Guwahati, this list is also a part of the Ramsar-listed freshwater lake that hosts over 219 bird species/
- The list includes some rare and endangered ones – Baer’s pochard, spot-billed pelican, and lesser adjutant stork.
- In winter, the lake transforms into a vibrant haven for migratory birds from as far as Siberia.
- Its tranquil setting, framed by lush greenery, makes it a top destination for birdwatching and nature photography in Assam.
6. Sambhar Lake, Rajasthan
Stretching across the dry and cold plains of Rajasthan, Sambhar Lake is India’s largest inland saltwater lake and a visual spectacle in every sense.
- Each winter, thousands of greater and lesser flamingos gather here, turning the silvery expanse into a sea of pink – a sight to behold.
- The surreal reflections on the salt-crusted surface make it a dream location for photographers and visitors.
- Beyond its natural charm, Sambhar also offers insights into traditional salt-making practices that have shaped the region’s history.
7. Pulicat Lake, Andhra Pradesh
Situated along the Tamil Nadu–Andhra Pradesh border, Pulicat Lake is the country’s second-largest brackish (a mix of saltwater and freshwater) lagoon and a thriving hub for migratory birds.
- The visitors can spot flamingos, painted storks, egrets, and pelicans in abundance during the peak season.
- The nearby fishing villages and backwaters enhance the rustic charm of this vibrant birding destination, where nature and culture blend beautifully.
8. Kolleru Lake, Andhra Pradesh
Kolleru Lake, one of India’s largest freshwater lakes, attracts nearly 20 million migratory birds each year.
- From painted storks and ibises to Siberian cranes, its calm waters serve as a resting and breeding ground for countless species.
- It is recognized as a wildlife sanctuary, Kolleru is a must-visit for birdwatchers seeking vast open horizons and serene natural beauty.
9. Pong Dam Lake, Himachal Pradesh
Also known as Maharana Pratap Sagar, this Ramsar-listed wetland in Himachal’s Kangra Valley is a striking winter destination for bird lovers, or ornithophiles.
- Surrounded by the snow-clad Himalayas, this popular lake welcomes bar-headed geese, pintails, and northern lapwings as the famous birds.
- The scenic contrast between icy mountain peaks and fluttering wings creates a breathtaking experience, which is quite unique to northern India.
10. Tso Moriri Lake, Ladakh
Perched at an altitude of over 4500 meters above sea level, Tso Moriri Lake is one of the highest Ramsar sites in the world.
- Its pristine blue water and rugged mountains form a dramatic backdrop for rare birds such as the black-necked crane, bar-headed goose, and brown-headed gull.
- The serenity and raw beauty of this high-altitude lake make it one of India’s most otherworldly birdwatching destinations.
For the uninitiated, Ramsar sites are wetlands of international importance designated under the Ramsar Convention, an international treaty for the conservation of wetlands.
Whether it’s the pink flamingos or the pelicans, India’s lakes burst into life each winter with color, movement, and sound. These serene water bodies are not just ecological treasures but also gateways to unforgettable wildlife experiences.
For travelers, photographers, and nature enthusiasts, exploring these birdwatching lakes offers a chance to reconnect with nature in its most peaceful and poetic form.