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NATURE · RAMSAR WETLANDKhijadiya Bird Sanctuary
A rare freshwater-and-saltwater wetland on the Gulf of Kutch coast — a Ramsar site where over 300 bird species gather, from flamingos to cranes and pelicans.
Where fresh water meets the sea
Just outside Jamnagar, where freshwater marshes meet the saltwater creeks of the Gulf of Kutch, lies the Khijadiya Bird Sanctuary — a small but extraordinarily rich wetland, recognised as a Ramsar site of international importance. The meeting of fresh and salt water creates a rare mosaic of lakes, marshes, mudflats and mangroves that supports an astonishing variety of birdlife: over 300 species have been recorded, including flamingos, pelicans, painted storks, cranes, ducks and a host of migratory waders that arrive each winter. Raised watchtowers and trails let visitors take in the spectacle without disturbing it. For birdwatchers and nature lovers, Khijadiya is one of Gujarat’s finest and most accessible wetlands — and a reminder of the wild coast that lies just beyond the Brass City.
Flamingos over the Khijadiya wetland.
From a riverside experiment to the road to freedom
A Ramsar site of global importance.
Freshwater dams meet the salt creeks of the Gulf of Kutch.
The wetland is notified as a bird sanctuary.
It is recognised as a wetland of international importance.
A premier birding destination near Jamnagar.
Reasons to make the time
300+ species
An exceptional diversity of birds.
Flamingos
Pink flocks on the shallows.
Two waters
A rare fresh-and-salt mosaic.
Ramsar site
Of international importance.
Watchtowers
See the birds without disturbing them.
Winter migration
Migratory flocks arrive each year.
What to look for inside
Flamingos & storks
Flocks across the marshes.
Lakes & mangroves
A mosaic of habitats.
How to spend an hour or two
Get a ticket
Arrange entry at the sanctuary gate.
Climb a watchtower
Survey the wetland from above.
Walk the trails
Follow the paths between the lakes.
Spot the species
Flamingos, pelicans, storks and ducks.
Go at dawn
Birds are most active early.
Bring binoculars
Essential for the best views.
Lakes, marsh and mangrove.
A mosaic of fresh and salt
Khijadiya owes its richness to geography. Freshwater impounded behind low dams sits beside the tidal salt creeks and mudflats of the Gulf of Kutch, so within a small area the sanctuary holds freshwater lakes, salt marshes, mangroves, mudflats and reed beds — each attracting different birds. This patchwork of habitats, threaded with bunds, trails and watchtowers, is what lets so many species coexist here, and what makes a slow morning’s walk so rewarding for birdwatchers.
Freshwater lakes & marsh
Tidal salt creeks & mudflats
Mangroves and reed beds
Trails and watchtowers
When to go
Cool and pleasant — the best season to explore Jamnagar.
Lush and green; the wetlands and lakes brim with birds.
Hot and dry — sightsee early or late in the day.
⏰ Visit at dawn in winter, with binoculars and a ticket, for the richest and most active birdlife.
Timings & entry
- Birdlife peaks in the winter months
- Dawn and late afternoon are most active
- Carry binoculars and water
- Allow a half day to do it justice
- A sanctuary entry ticket is required
- Use the watchtowers and marked trails
- Keep quiet; do not disturb the birds
- No littering — it's a protected wetland
Getting there
By Air
Jamnagar Airport (~15 km) is nearest.
By Rail
Jamnagar station, then a short drive.
By Road
About 10 km from Jamnagar by taxi or auto.
Birding Khijadiya
WINGS & WATER
Flocks, marsh and morning light
What to shoot
Flamingos and storks on the water.
Best light
Early morning over the marshes.
Reach
A long lens and binoculars help.
Vantage
Shoot from the watchtowers.
Know before you go
More to see close by
Lakhota Lake & Palace
An island fort-museum in the middle of Ranmal Lake
Siddhnath Mahadev
An old lakeside Shiva temple
Gulf Mudflats
◐ Golden hour · the flats
Narara Marine Park
India's first — corals, islands & sea life
Bala Hanuman Temple
Site of a non-stop Ram chant since 1964
Bala Hanuman
◐ The aarti & chanting hall
Where to eat around the ashram
Kathiawadi Thali
Rotla, kadhi, shaak and ghee-rich fare.
Ganthiya & fafda
Gathiya and farsan, a Saurashtra staple.
Kachori & chaat
The old city's bustling bazaar snacks.
Pure-veg city
Jamnagar's food is largely vegetarian.
Khijadiya Bird Sanctuary FAQ
What is Khijadiya Bird Sanctuary?
A coastal wetland near Jamnagar, a Ramsar site, home to 300+ bird species.
Why is it special?
It mixes freshwater and saltwater habitats, attracting exceptional birdlife.
What birds can I see?
Flamingos, pelicans, painted storks, cranes, ducks and many migratory waders.
When is the best time?
Winter, at dawn, when migratory birds are present and active.
Is there an entry fee?
Yes — a sanctuary entry ticket is required.
How far is it from Jamnagar?
About 10 km.
What should I bring?
Binoculars, a long lens, water and sun protection.
Are there facilities?
Watchtowers and marked trails help you view the birds.
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