If you love spotting feathered beauties without emptying your wallet, India is a paradise waiting for you. From the colourful bee-eaters of the Western Ghats to the rare Siberian cranes in the north, there’s something magical in every corner. Just like hunting for Flipkart coupon codes before a sale, birdwatching here is all about patience, timing, and knowing where to look. At SavePlus India we help you make the most of your trips without overspending. Let’s uncover the top budget birdwatching locations in India and see how you can save while enjoying nature’s finest shows.

Keoladeo National Park, Rajasthan

Bharatpur, officially known as Keoladeo National Park, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that draws bird lovers from across the world. Known for its winter guests like the Siberian Crane, this sanctuary offers a feast for the eyes. The best part? It’s incredibly budget-friendly for Indian travellers. You can explore it on foot, by cycle, or in a rickshaw while capturing amazing shots. It’s also close to several cities, making it perfect for short getaways.

• Location: Bharatpur, Rajasthan
  
  
• How to Reach:
  By Bus: Direct buses from Agra, Jaipur, and Delhi.
  By Train: Bharatpur Junction, 5 km from the park.
  By Air: The Nearest airport is Agra (56 km).
  
  
• Things to Do Places to Visit: Birdwatching, boating, and exploring the wetlands.
  
  
• Estimated Budget: ₹1,500–₹3,000 per person (2 days).
  
  
• Trip Duration: 2–3 days.
  
  
• Must Try Foods: Rajasthani thali, kachori, and lassi.
  
  
• Nearby Cities: Agra, Jaipur, Mathura.

Pro Tip: Visit between October and February for the best migratory sightings.

Chilika Lake, Odisha

Asia’s largest brackish water lagoon, Chilika Lake, is home to a stunning variety of birds, especially in winter. Flocks of flamingos, white-bellied sea eagles, and herons make this a must-visit. You can enjoy boat rides to see migratory birds up close while also exploring nearby fishing villages. This spot is a favourite among budget travellers because accommodation and food are surprisingly affordable. The vibrant sunsets here make your trip even more memorable.

• Location: Puri, Khordha, and Ganjam districts, Odisha
  
  
• How to Reach:
  By Bus: Regular buses from Bhubaneswar and Puri.
  By Train: Nearest stations are Balugaon and Puri.
  By Air: Bhubaneswar airport (105 km).
  
  
• Things to Do Places to Visit: Birdwatching, boat cruises, Kalijai Temple.
  
  
• Estimated Budget: ₹2,000–₹3,500 per person (2 days).
  
  
• Trip Duration: 2–3 days.
  
  
• Must Try Foods: Pakhala bhata, crab curry, and fresh prawn dishes.
  
  
• Nearby Cities: Puri, Bhubaneswar, Cuttack.

Pro Tip: Book morning boat rides for the best birdwatching experience.

Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary, Karnataka

Often called the ‘Mini Bharatpur of the South, Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary is a scenic heaven along the Cauvery River. It’s home to storks, pelicans, and kingfishers, and is perfect for photography enthusiasts. The lush surroundings make it a peaceful escape from city life. This sanctuary is easy to explore in a day trip from Mysuru or Bengaluru, making it cost-effective for families and students alike. The well-maintained walking paths ensure a comfortable visit.

• Location: Mandya district, Karnataka
  
  
• How to Reach:
  By Bus: Direct buses from Mysuru (19 km).
  By Train: Mysuru Junction is the nearest station.
  By Air: Mysuru airport (33 km).
  
  
• Things to Do Places to Visit: Birdwatching, boat rides, nature walks.
  
  
• Estimated Budget: ₹800–₹2,000 per person (1 day).
  
  
• Trip Duration: 1–2 days.
  
  
• Must Try Foods: Mysore masala dosa, filter coffee, and idli-vada.
  
  
• Nearby Cities: Mysuru, Bengaluru, Mandya.

Pro Tip: Go early morning or late afternoon for active bird activity.

Nal Sarovar Bird Sanctuary, Gujarat

Located about 60 km from Ahmedabad, Nal Sarovar is a birdwatcher’s paradise with over 200 species. Winter transforms it into a bustling hub of flamingos, pelicans, and migratory ducks. The peaceful lake is perfect for boating and photography. Budget travellers will appreciate the low entry fee and affordable local transport. The nearby villages also offer insights into rural Gujarati life.

• Location: Sanand, Gujarat
  
  
• How to Reach:
  By Bus: Buses are available from Ahmedabad to Sanand, then local transport.
  By Train: The Nearest station is Viramgam (37 km).
  By Air: Ahmedabad airport (65 km).
  
  
• Things to Do Places to Visit: Birdwatching, boating, village tours.
  
  
• Estimated Budget: ₹1,200–₹2,500 per person (1–2 days).
  
  
• Trip Duration: 1–2 days.
  
  
• Must Try Foods: Gujarati thali, dhokla, and fafda-jalebi.
  
  
• Nearby Cities: Ahmedabad, Sanand, Viramgam.

Pro Tip: Carry binoculars for distant sightings across the lake.

Thattekad Bird Sanctuary, Kerala

Also known as Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, Thattekad Bird Sanctuary is a hidden gem in Kerala’s Ernakulam district. Its evergreen forests and wetlands attract rare species like the Malabar grey hornbill. Birdwatchers often find unique species here that aren’t seen elsewhere in India. The sanctuary’s affordable entry and nearby homestays make it budget-friendly. Nature lovers can also explore nearby waterfalls and spice plantations.

• Location: Ernakulam district, Kerala
  
  
• How to Reach:
  By Bus: Buses from Kochi to Kothamangalam, then local transport.
  By Train: The nearest station is Aluva (48 km).
  By Air: Kochi International Airport (44 km).
  
  
• Things to Do Places to Visit: Birdwatching, trekking, plantation visits.
  
  
• Estimated Budget: ₹1,500–₹3,000 per person (2 days).
  
  
• Trip Duration: 2–3 days.
  
  
• Must Try Foods: Appam with stew, Kerala fish curry, and puttu-kadala.
  
  
• Nearby Cities: Kochi, Munnar, Aluva.

Pro Tip: Hire a local guide to spot elusive endemic species.

Pangot, Uttarakhand

Nestled in the Kumaon hills near Nainital, Pangot is a charming village known for over 300 bird species. It’s an ideal budget escape for nature lovers seeking peace away from crowds. The surrounding oak and pine forests are home to cheer pheasants, Himalayan griffons, and many other high-altitude species. Budget homestays and roadside dhabas make it affordable for backpackers.

• Location: Nainital district, Uttarakhand
  
  
• How to Reach:
  By Bus: Buses from Delhi to Nainital, then taxi to Pangot.
  By Train: Kathgodam station (50 km).
  By Air: Pantnagar airport (85 km).
  
  
• Things to Do Places to Visit: Birdwatching, trekking, nature photography.
  
  
• Estimated Budget: ₹1,500–₹3,000 per person (2–3 days).
  
  
• Trip Duration: 2–3 days.
  
  
• Must Try Foods: Kumaoni raita, bhatt ki churkani, and aloo ke gutke.
  
  
• Nearby Cities: Nainital, Kathgodam, Almora.

Pro Tip: Visit in spring or winter for the most diverse sightings.

Sultanpur Bird Sanctuary, Haryana

Just a short drive from Delhi, Sultanpur Bird Sanctuary is a favourite weekend spot for bird lovers in NCR. It’s home to migratory birds like the rosy pelican, black-winged stilt, and Eurasian wigeon. With low entry fees and easy access, it’s a top choice for budget travellers. Well-maintained walking trails make it ideal for families and kids, too.

• Location: Gurgaon district, Haryana
  
  
• How to Reach:
  By Bus: Buses from Delhi to Gurgaon, then a taxi to Sultanpur.
  By Train: Gurgaon station (15 km).
  By Air: Delhi airport (35 km).
  
  
• Things to Do Places to Visit: Birdwatching, nature walks, photography.
  
  
• Estimated Budget: ₹800–₹1,500 per person (1 day).
  
  
• Trip Duration: 1 day.
  
  
• Must Try Foods: Paratha with lassi, butter chicken, and chole bhature.
  
  
• Nearby Cities: Delhi, Gurgaon, Faridabad.

Pro Tip: Avoid peak afternoons; mornings offer better visibility.

Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, Goa

Tucked away on Chorao Island, Sali Ali Bird Sanctuary offers a peaceful escape from Goa’s busy beaches. It’s home to colourful kingfishers, herons, and drongos. Reaching here is an adventure in itself, involving a ferry ride. Affordable guesthouses and local Goan cuisine make it perfect for budget-conscious travellers. Birdwatching here pairs well with exploring Goa’s quieter side.

• Location: Chorao Island, Goa
  
  
• How to Reach:
  By Bus: Buses to Ribandar, then ferry to Chorao.
  By Train: The Nearest station is Karmali (15 km).
  By Air: Goa International Airport (37 km).
  
  
• Things to Do Places to Visit: Birdwatching, mangrove tours, ferry rides.
  
  
• Estimated Budget: ₹1,200–₹2,500 per person (1–2 days).
  
  
• Trip Duration: 1–2 days.
  
  
• Must Try Foods: Goan fish curry, bebinca, and prawn balchao.
  
  
• Nearby Cities: Panaji, Mapusa, Vasco da Gama.

Pro Tip: Visit during high tide for better bird activity.

Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary, Tamil Nadu

One of the oldest bird sanctuaries in India, Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary, is just a short drive from Chennai. It’s known for large gatherings of storks, ibises, and spoonbills. The sanctuary’s compact size makes it easy to explore in half a day, and the low entry fee is a bonus. It’s an ideal budget day trip for Chennai residents and visitors.

• Location: Chengalpattu district, Tamil Nadu
  
  
• How to Reach:
  By Bus: Buses from Chennai to Chengalpattu, then a taxi.
  By Train: Chengalpattu station (21 km).
  By Air: Chennai airport (60 km).
  
  
• Things to Do Places to Visit: Birdwatching, photography, nature trails.
  
  
• Estimated Budget: ₹800–₹1,500 per person (1 day).
  
  
• Trip Duration: 1 day.
  
  
• Must Try Foods: Tamil-style sambar, idiyappam, and filter coffee.
  
  
• Nearby Cities: Chennai, Chengalpattu, Mahabalipuram.

Pro Tip: Go between November and February for peak sightings.

Bhigwan, Maharashtra

Known as the ‘Bharatpur of Maharashtra, Bhigwan is a haven for flamingos and other waterbirds. Located on the backwaters of the Ujani Dam, it’s a favourite among wildlife photographers. Budget travellers love it for the cheap homestays and simple yet tasty local food. Birdwatching here is best enjoyed on early morning boat rides.

• Location: Pune district, Maharashtra
  
  
• How to Reach:
  By Bus: Buses from Pune to Bhigwan.
  By Train: Bhigwan station (5 km).
  By Air: Pune airport (105 km).
  
  
• Things to Do Places to Visit: Birdwatching, boating, photography.
  
  
• Estimated Budget: ₹1,000–₹2,000 per person (1–2 days).
  
  
• Trip Duration: 1–2 days.
  
  
• Must Try Foods: Bhakri with pithla, poha, and misal pav.
  
  
• Nearby Cities: Pune, Solapur, Baramati.

Pro Tip: January and February offer the best flamingo views.

Eaglenest Wildlife Sanctuary, Arunachal Pradesh

A dream destination for serious birders, Eaglenest Wildlife Sanctuary is famous for its rare species, including the Bugun liocichla, found nowhere else in the world. Located in the Eastern Himalayas, it offers pristine forests and untouched beauty. Although remote, it’s surprisingly affordable for those who plan well. Local homestays and eco-camps make it both budget-friendly and eco-friendly.

• Location: West Kameng district, Arunachal Pradesh
  
  
• How to Reach:
  By Bus: Buses from Tezpur to Tenga, then local taxis.
  By Train: Nearest station is Bhalukpong (50 km).
  By Air: Tezpur airport (120 km).
  
  
• Things to Do Places to Visit: Birdwatching, trekking, nature walks.
  
  
• Estimated Budget: ₹2,500–₹4,000 per person (3–4 days).
  
  
• Trip Duration: 3–4 days.
  
  
• Must Try Foods: Thukpa, momos, and smoked pork.
  
  
• Nearby Cities: Tezpur, Bomdila, Guwahati.

Pro Tip: Carry warm clothes, even in summer, due to high-altitude chill.

Conclusion

SavePlus India proves that incredible birdwatching adventures don’t have to break the bank. From Rajasthan’s wetlands to Kerala’s lush sanctuaries, these handpicked spots offer unique birdlife, local flavors, and affordable stays. Grab your binoculars, charge your camera, and explore these budget-friendly bird havens for unforgettable sightings at unbeatable prices."

FAQ

What is the best time for birdwatching in India?
Winter (November–February) is ideal, as migratory birds flock to Indian wetlands and forests during this time.

Do I need special permits to visit bird sanctuaries?
Most require only an entry ticket. Some protected areas may need permits, which are usually easy to obtain on-site.

What should I carry for birdwatching trips?
Binoculars, a camera with a zoom lens, comfortable clothing, a hat, sunscreen, and drinking water.

Can beginners enjoy birdwatching in these places?
Yes, many sanctuaries have guided tours and easy trails suitable for beginners.

Are there budget accommodations near these birding spots?
Yes, most destinations offer homestays, guesthouses, or budget hotels within short distances.