Latest Update : For the upcoming season 2024/25, safari bookings are open for Gir National Park. Always book your safari in advance.
Thol Lake Sanctuary situated in Thol Village in Mehsana district near Ahmedabad, Gujarat is a nature lover and birdwatcher's paradise. The sanctuary covers an area of 7 square kilometres and houses over 160 species of birds including both migratory and resident birds. The region consists of marshlands and shrub forests along with the artificial Thol Lake making it a great suitable habitat for birds of various types. The refuge has a modest water body built specifically for birds. The lake supplies drinking and irrigation water, as well as groundwater replenishment, and it is also utilised for pleasure and tourism purposes. The vegetation serves as good thatching material and food for avifauna species.
People looking for a change in their daily life can opt to visit the sanctuary to witness many colourful species of avifauna flying and resting in their natural habitat. Tourists are advised to visit this sanctuary in the winter months, between November and February when the flock of birds visit the region from far off destinations. In all, the Thol Lake Sanctuary of Gujarat is a great location for birdwatchers, wildlife photographers and nature lovers who want to immerse themselves in the serenity and peacefulness of nature.
The freshwater lake of Thol is surrounded by the marshes and was built as an irrigation tank in 1912. The Gaekwad administration constructed the tank, and the Thol Lake has allowed consumers to utilise its water. During that period, India was experiencing a serious water shortage. As a result, the ministers or authorities of the time created this reservoir to provide water for irrigation. Thol Lake received the title of renowned sanctuary in 1988 because it shows how much the area is suitable for the habitat of the avifauna, about 60% of them are waterbirds.
The Thol Lake Sanctuary is also intended to be designated as an Eco-sensitive Zone under the Environment (Protection) Act of 1986. Currently, the Forest and Irrigation Department of the Government of Gujarat looks after the operation and maintenance of the lake.
The birding site of Thol is a significant waterbird habitat in Gujarat, welcoming and providing nesting, feeding, and roosting grounds for numerous species of resident and migratory birds. The open water area was constructed for irrigation but later became a wildlife sanctuary to protect the birdlife, more than 320 species of birds can be found. The sanctuary is home to globally endangered and vulnerable species such as the Sarus crane, Indian skimmer, white-rumped vulture and Indian vulture, flamingos, pelicans, common pochard, lesser white-fronted goose and many more. This marshland is also home to more than 1% of the population of glossy ibises.
Some Frequently Asked Questions About Gir
Get In TouchYes, there's a certain fee for entering the wetland reserve of Kutch depending upon the vehicle type and the nationality of the person.
After exploring the sanctuary, people can witness the other surrounding attractions, such as Sabarmati Ashram, Adalaj Stepwell, Nal Sarovar Lake, Akshardham Temple and others.
The main activity of Thol Bird Sanctuary is bird watching where they may see bird species such as flamingos, pelicans, herons, and ducks. Other activities include Wildlife photography, Boating, Wildlife hikes, Educational visits and Picnics.
November through February are the best months to visit the Thol Bird Sanctuary because of the beautiful weather which is perfect for birdwatching. Migratory birds visit the sanctuary to breed and enjoy the environment of the region.
