Khijadia Bird Sanctuary, Jamnagar - Timings, Safari Cost, Best Time to Visit

At a distance of 16 km from Jamnagar Railway Station, Khijadiya is a bird sanctuary located at Khijadiya Village in the Jamnagar district of Gujarat. Situated off the coast of Kutch, it is one of the popular bird sanctuaries in Gujarat, and among the must include places in Jamnagar sightseeing packages.

Covering an area of about 6 Sq.km, the Khijadiya Bird Sanctuary is unique having both freshwater lakes, salt, and freshwater marshlands. It was officially declared as a sanctuary in 1982. However, it became a natural habitat for local and migratory birds before India's independence when the then rulers constructed a small check dam on Ruparel River for storing the waters. This dam created a unique ecosphere with the freshwater lakes on one side and the salty water of the sea forming marshes on the other to support not only a variety of fauna but also flora. The main sanctuary covers the area around the Ruparel and Kalindi rivers towards the northeast of Jamnagar.

Among the major Jamnagar tourist places, the sanctuary is a true heaven for all bird lovers as it is home to more than 250 species of resident and migratory birds, including globally threatened species such as Dalmatian pelican, Asian openbill stork, Black-necked stork, Darter, Black-headed ibis, Eurasian spoonbill, and Indian skimmer. The sanctuary provides birdwatchers with a delightful chance to sight rare birds in large numbers. It is more recognized as the breeding ground for the great crested grebe. One can also found jackals, cats, snakes, wolves, bluebells, mongoose, and reptiles here.

The site is also considered remarkable for ecological research and education. There is an Interpretation Centre for tourists where one can get more information about birds in the sanctuary and their particular traits. There are also facilities like nature trails, watchtowers, and reclamation bunds to watch these winged visitors. One can climb up any of the three watchtowers, opt for paddle boats, or walk along any of the trails to check out the wild in all its grandeur.

The best season to visit the sanctuary is from September to February. Early morning or evening is the best time of the day to check out the wonderful avifauna at Khijadiya. However, entry to the sanctuary has to be registered with the Forest Office in Jamnagar which closes at 2 PM.

For permission and more information contact Office of Chief Conservator of Forests Office, Jamnagar- Tel: 0288 2679357

Timings: 6.30 AM - 5 PM

Entry Fee: Rs. 40 for Indians & USD 10 for Foreigners, Rs. 200 for Camera

Car & Jeep (up to 6 persons): Rs.400 for Indians & USD 40 for Foreigners