Each winter, thousands of birds descend on a quiet patch of wetlands in Uttar Pradesh’s Gonda district — some flying in from as far as Siberia and Europe. Welcome to the Parvati Arga Bird Sanctuary, a Ramsar-recognised haven for over 150 bird species, tucked away just 40 km from Gonda town and 25 km from Ayodhya.
Officially declared a sanctuary in 1990, this 1,084-hectare site remains relatively unknown, making it a peaceful retreat for birdwatchers and offbeat travellers alike.
A sanctuary built around lakes
This Ramsar site is well-recognised for its importance on the international wetlands map. The Ramsar Convention on Wetlands — an international treaty initiated in 1971 — endeavours to safeguard these critical ecosystems through both conservation efforts and the promotion of sustainable use.
The sanctuary is named after its iconic oxbow lakes, Parvati Tal and Arga Tal, which are shaped like graceful crescents. These lakes are remnants of a meandering river course, offering a permanent freshwater habitat that supports a rich diversity of flora and fauna.
The surrounding Tikri forest adds an emerald border, offering sanctuary not just to wildlife, but to travellers seeking solitude from the hustle.
Home to endangered vultures and migrants from afar
The sanctuary is home to over 150 bird species, encompassing both resident and migratory birds such as pintails, mallards, and greylag geese.
It serves as a crucial roosting and breeding ground for several IUCN-listed threatened vulture species, such as the white-rumped vulture, the Indian vulture, and the endangered Egyptian vulture.
Beyond birds: A diverse ecosystem
What sets Parvati Arga Bird Sanctuary apart is its unique combination of avian life and terrestrial fauna. Apart from the migratory birds, one can also encounter animals, such as jackals, nilgai, and wild boars.
This is supplemented by a vibrant aquatic flora. Among 176 plant species, water lilies and lotus are the most prominent, lending the water bodies a colourful allure and adding to the sanctuary’s rich biodiversity.
The sanctuary holds a pivotal role in the region’s hydrological balance, playing a crucial part in groundwater recharge and discharge. It is a lesser-known sanctuary that offers a perfect retreat for offbeat travellers and nature enthusiasts.
Planning your visit
The best time to visit for birdwatching is between November and February, though the sanctuary remains open until March. It is accessible via:
Air: Chaudhary Charan Singh International Airport, Lucknow (120 km)
Rail: Mankapur Junction (15 km from the wetland)
Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a wildlife photographer, or a traveller looking for quieter paths, Parvati Arga offers an immersive, tranquil experience — far from the usual tourist trails.
No comments:
Post a Comment