For the birds

HIT THE ROAD

The Keoladeo Ghana National Park in Bharatpur is probably the best-known waterbird sanctuary in the world, and not without reason. A birdwatcher's paradise, the sheer number of species that, at some point or the other, make their home here is mind-boggling.

The best time to go is October to March, when lots of migratory birds fly here. Chief among these is the magnificent Siberian Crane, a highly-endangered bird that flies over 6,000 km to get here from Siberia.

You will also see (among others) cranes, herons, pelicans, geese, ducks, eagles, hawks, wagtails, warblers and darters...phew! Sambhar, chital, nilgai and pythons are also to be seen and there is even a tigress on the prowl, although you're unlikely to spot her.

Bharatpur is 185 km from Delhi, via Mathura. There are plenty of places to stay, most of which are close to the park's gate. The Bharatpur Forest Lodge (Ph: 05644-222760, Rs 1,500 onwards) is probably the best option, because it's inside the park and hundreds of birds are to be found in its large garden.

Don't know where to go? pablo@business-standard.com