Okhla Bird Sanctuary

What it is

The sanctuary covers about 4 square kilometres where the Yamuna enters Uttar Pradesh at the Okhla barrage. It was declared a protected area in 1990 and is run by the Uttar Pradesh Forest Department. Around 300 bird species have been recorded here, from migrant ducks in winter to the resident peafowl.

Bird numbers have fallen sharply. Winter counts dropped from over 12,000 birds in 2019 to about 3,400 in 2024, and regular birders blame low water, sewage and construction. Go with modest hopes.

Getting there

Okhla Bird Sanctuary station on the Magenta Line is a short walk from the entrance. It is one stop from Botanical Garden. Parking near the gate is limited and messy at weekends.

When to go

November to February for migratory birds. Arrive as it opens in the morning, when birds are most active and the paths are quiet. In summer it is mostly peafowl and resident birds, and by nine the heat makes long walks hard work.

Good to know

There is a ticket at the gate. Fees and hours change, so check there rather than trusting old blog posts. Carry binoculars, as the water is often well away from the path. Mosquitoes are bad after the monsoon. Wear muted colours and keep your voice down if you want birds to come close.