Latest Update : For the upcoming season 2024/25, safari bookings are open for Gir National Park. Always book your safari in advance.
A unique blend of dry grasslands and shrub forest makes Velavadar Bird Sanctuary a haven for birders and nature enthusiasts. The sanctuary lies in the Bhavnagar district of Gujarat covering an area of 34 square kilometres which houses a wide range of avifauna species including endangered and migratory species along with a diverse range of wildlife.
Apart from the Black Bucks of the Velavadar Bird Sanctuary, the region houses many graceful and colourful creatures resting in their nests and flying high above in the skies of the region. For visitors, the chance of spotting rare and exotic birds rises high during the winter months from November to February when a huge flock of migratory birds travel from far off destinations of the world. Overall, the bird sanctuary becomes one of a kind of destination with its unique biodiversity and wide range of wildlife. The bird sanctuary's serene atmosphere, breathtaking views, and diverse bird species make it a perfect weekend getaway for families and nature enthusiasts
The history of the Velavadar Bird Sanctuary dates back to 1976 when the sanctuary was established as a protected area for bird species. Later in 1980, more 16 square kilometres were added to its initial area which in total became 34 square kilometres of protected land. Before getting established as a sanctuary, the grassland was under the King of Bhavnagar as he used the grounds for hunting birds and wild animals. The unique topography of the park is the reason behind the declaration of the bird sanctuary.
A road divides the park into two sections - the Wetland Area and the Grassland Area. These two places are frequently seen as wastelands and are in danger of climate change. Locals are becoming more conscious of the delicate environment, and as a result, these regions are starting to be preserved. Velavadar was recently designated by Birdlife International as an Important Bird Area.
The sanctuary of Velavadar houses a plethora of endangered bird species such as the Houbara bustard, lesser florican, common crane, Sarus white stork, white pelican, and Montagu, pallid and marsh harrier. The family of raptors found in the region includes steppe, tawny, greater and lesser spotted eagle, imperial eagle, Bonelli's eagle, short-toed snake eagle, and both white-eyed and long-legged buzzard.
The variety of birds in Velavadar is quite vast as it is also home to grassland birds like Sandgrouse, larks and Harrier roost which is one of the bird species in the world. Great Indian Bustards, which are among the heaviest bird species, are also found in the sanctuary. Other bird species that can be spotted here include the Lesser Florican, Eurasian Griffon Vulture, Red-necked Falcon, Common Crane, and many more. The Lesser Florican usually migrate here during the monsoon season to witness the males perform a courtship dance to impress the females.
Some Frequently Asked Questions About Gir
Get In TouchThe main attraction of the Velavadar Bird Sanctuary is the Indian Blackbuck, a species of antelope native to India apart from unique bird species.
The best time is during the winter months from November to February when a huge flock of migratory birds travel from far off destinations.
Bhavnagar Airport is the closest to the bird sanctuary as it is around 50 kilometres away. Opt for any local transport or private cabs to reach the sanctuary.
Yes, visitors can hire guides who are knowledgeable about the sanctuary's avifauna. Guides can enhance the visiting experience by providing detailed information on the birds and helping to spot different nests.
