The Wonders of Keoladeo National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage Site! 🌿
Nestled in the floodplains of Bharatpur, just outside the city, Keoladeo National Park spans an impressive 29 square kilometers. This awe-inspiring sanctuary is home to an artificial ecosystem with man-made water bodies, originally created in the late 19th century by Maharaja Ram Singh. Drawing inspiration from England’s duck-shooting havens, he ingeniously flooded low-lying areas using the Ajan Dam, built by Maharaja Surajmal in 1760 to protect Bharatpur’s iconic Iron Fort.
Fast forward to today, and Keoladeo’s diverse habitats—marshes, woodlands, grasslands, and more—attract over 375 bird species from around the world. From resident birds to stunning migratory visitors, this park is a paradise for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts alike!
Did you know? In the early 17th century, the Ajan Dam served as an unlikely hero, intentionally breached to flood surrounding areas and thwart the British forces led by Lord Lake. The history here is as rich as the biodiversity! Keoladeo’s transformation from a royal hunting ground to a protected National Park in 1981 and a World Heritage Site in 1985 showcases its global significance. Despite challenges like droughts in the early 2000s, the park has reclaimed its place as one of the most vibrant sanctuaries in India.
✨ Join us for a one-day journey into this extraordinary world where nature meets history. Witness flocks of birds gliding over tranquil water bodies, walk through lush trails teeming with life, and immerse yourself in the park’s fascinating legacy. Don’t miss this chance to explore Keoladeo—an experience you’ll cherish forever! 🌏🐦
Trip Highlights:
- Birdwatcher’s Paradise: Spot over 375 species of birds, including rare migratory species like Siberian cranes and painted storks.
- Rich History: Learn about the park’s transformation from a royal hunting ground to a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Diverse Ecosystems: Explore marshes, woodlands, grasslands, and more, home to an incredible variety of flora and fauna.
- Unique Man-Made Water Bodies: Discover how the Ajan Dam created a thriving artificial ecosystem in the late 19th century.
- Cultural Heritage: Hear fascinating stories of how the Ajan Dam played a key role in Bharatpur’s defense during the 17th century.
- Nature’s Resilience: Witness how the park overcame droughts to remain a vibrant sanctuary for wildlife.
- Scenic Trails: Enjoy peaceful walks through lush landscapes perfect for photography and relaxation.
MEET OUR HOST
Supriya Harindrawar is an award-winning wildlife photographer and conservation advocate dedicated to promoting environmental awareness through the power of visual storytelling. Hailing from Madhya Pradesh, her deep-rooted connection with nature inspired her journey into wildlife photography, which began in 2019.
Her breakthrough came during a solo expedition to Gujarat’s Little Rann of Kutch, where her stunning images of Eurasian cranes earned her the prestigious Photographer of the Year 2020 award from Explore Wild India Magazine—a proud first for her state.
Supriya also holds a Postgraduate Diploma in Tourism and Environmental Law from NLU Delhi, offered in collaboration with WWF-India. In 2024, she was featured in the August edition of FOX Story India‘s Influential Femmes, celebrating inspiring women leaders.
Through her work, Supriya strives to champion wildlife conservation and foster a deep respect for natural habitats. She leverages storytelling to raise awareness and motivate collective action for protecting the environment.
