Parvati Arga Bird Sanctuary: Uttar Pradesh’s hidden Ramsar wonderland

Set in the Gonda district of Uttar Pradesh, Parvati Arga Bird Sanctuary is not your typical bird sanctuary! Far from the madding crowd and tourist trails, lies the wondrous Parvati Arga Bird Sanctuary about 40 km from Gonda town and only 25 km from Ayodhya, the Birthplace of Lord Ram.

The site was listed in the Ramsar list of internationally important wetlands in 2019.Let’s have a look at what hides in this unique hidden oasis.What makes Parvati Arga so unique?First thing, it is a lesser-known sanctuary, which makes it a perfect spot for offbeat travellers and nature lovers. The place is created by two oxbow lakes, Parvati Tal and Arga Tal and that’s why the name. These crescent-shaped freshwater lakes today attract birds in huge numbers.

It is also an important breeding and roosting ground for birds. Spread over 1,084 hectares, the sanctuary was officially notified in 1990.

Home to over 150 bird speciesNot many are aware of the fact that the Parvati Arga is home to more than 150 bird species, both resident and migratory. Winter transforms the lakes here into a colourful spectacle with a range of bird visitors including pintails, greylag geese, mallards, gadwalls, and red-crested pochards.

Some local beauties include sarus cranes, jacanas, painted storks, and purple swamphens.Endangered speciesIn addition, the sanctuary also hosts rare and endangered species including Indian vultures, white-rumped vultures, and even the Egyptian vulture, making it a hot spot for conservation enthusiasts.Beyond BirdsThe park is not just about birds, but it also plays a significant ecological role. One can also spot animals like jackals, nilgai and wild boars, among others.

The region is also rich in aquatic plants such as lotus and water lilies. The Tikri forest range nearby adds to the green.Best time to visit: November to March (peak birdwatching season)How to reach

By air: Nearest airport is Lucknow (130 km)By train: Gonda Junction or Mankapur StationBy road: Accessible from Ayodhya, Lucknow and Gonda via NH 330While basic facilities exist, it's best to go with a local guide or in coordination with the Forest Department. Who knew that in the heart of Uttar Pradesh lies such an unexplored hidden sanctuary which is waiting to be explored!