Thol Bird Sanctuary is that one place where migratory birds get everything required in terms of natural habitat. The spot is a part of Gujarat, the Mehsana District, with a pretty close location to other towns like Ahmedabad. To observe all that glistening on the surface of the lake, it’s good to have all your binoculars and other items with you, while we uncover the Thol Lake Bird Sanctuary together. Other than beautiful birds, this place is also famous for its perfect sunset view and wonderful nature. This Sanctuary of Gujarat attracts a wide range of tourists and birdwatchers from all across the world. If you are planning to visit Thol Bird Sanctuary, this is a blog specially meant for you.
History and Location
Thol Lake was initially built as a reservoir for irrigation in 1912 under the Gaekwad dynasty and was an ecological spot. This place got the name Sanctuary in the year 1988 with the intention to protect the rich biodiversity. This Lake covers around 700 hectares of land and is surrounded by lush greenery. The place was an ideal habitat for local and migratory birds, which naturally attracted the birds. Be sure to take your binoculars and other necessary items, and then together we will see the Thol Lake Bird Sanctuary.
Timings and Entry Fees
- Visiting Hours: 6:00 AM – 5:30 PM (Open every day)
- Entry Fee: ₹50/person
- Camera Charges: ₹200
- Car Entry Fee: ₹500
Birdwatching at Thol: Avian Diversity
This place is especially known for the 320 species of birds, including both Migratory and resident Birds. Thol Bird Sanctuary is an essential stoppage along the Central Asian Flyway, allowing thousands of Birds to migrate at the time of winter. Here’s a list of Bird species you can witness in the Thol Bird Sanctuary
Prominent Bird Species
- Flamingos
- Sarus Cranes
- Great White Pelicans
- Painted Storks
- Black-headed Ibis
- Common Pochard
- Northern Shoveler
- Eurasian Spoonbill and Ruddy Shelduck (migratory)
*Best time to watch Birds at Thol Bird Sanctuary: November to February (Migrating Duration for birds)*
Wildlife Beyond Birds
Besides beautiful species of Birds, Thol is home to various mammals and reptiles. Here are some of the animal species you can witness at Thol Bird Sanctuary:
- Blackbuck.
- Nilgai (Blue Bull)
- Indian Jackal
Flora: The greenery of the sanctuary
Thol Lake is surrounded by a blend of dry deciduous trees, shrubs like Cynodon dactylon (Darba) and herbs such as Grangea maderaspatan, Coldenia procumbens, and Glinus lotoides, and marshy vegetation that supports the sanctuary’s diverse wildlife. The aquatic plants within the lake provide food for waterfowl, while the grasslands serve as breeding and nesting grounds for birds.
Rules and Regulations: Preserving Thol’s Beauty
To ensure the conservation of Thol Bird Sanctuary and provide an enriching experience for all visitors, the following rules must be followed:
- Dispose of waste in designated bins to maintain cleanliness.
- Avoid playing music or making noise that may disturb birds and animals.
- Feeding animals can harm the health of the birds.
- Turn off flash photography, it can disturb birds.
- Any harm to wildlife is prohibited under wildlife protection laws.
To make the most of your trip to Thol Bird Sanctuary, keep the following tips in mind:
Tips for Visitors: Enhance Your Experience
Best Time to Visit
- Early mornings (6:00 AM – 9:00 AM) are the best for birdwatching, as birds are most active during this time.
- Winter months (November – February) offer the best chances to see migratory birds.
Essentials to Carry
Make sure that you don’t overload yourself while visiting Thol Lake Bird Sanctuary. Here are some of the essential things that you must carry:
- Binoculars and Camera with Zoom Lens
- Carry essentials like Water and Snacks
- Sunscreen, Hat, and Sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun
- Make sure that you wear comfortable clothing and footwear
Why the Thol Bird Sanctuary is Special
Thol Bird Sanctuary can be described not solely as a place for Bird Lovers but rather a fully implemented ecological system. This Bird Sanctuary is extremely important in the ecosystem because it not only maintains the balance of the environment but also keeps the wetland biodiversity intact. A Ramsar Site was conferred on this lake in the first half of 2021, with the consequence that it has not only become even more important for ecological balancing but it also has international protection. Thol Lake is just heaven if you are the kind of person who loves to interact and contribute to the natural environment. It is one fascinating place where a wildlife photographer, an ornithologist or simply a person in the orbit of nature, have to go.
Are you a Birdwatcher visiting Udaipur?
Udaipur is undoubtedly home to a wide range of lakes, but if you are into birdwatching, Udaipur is not less than a haven. The Lakes in Winters can make you witness some of the most beautiful migratory birds. Other than this, the bird park of Gulab Bagh is also home to a wide range of birds like parrots and elegant macaws. For Birdwatchers, a trip to Udaipur is fixed. Now, the main concern is for a stay option in Udaipur. Let me introduce you to Goya Hills, a 3BHK villa with a pool in Udaipur that offers a spacious room, luxury amenities and top-notch services. A stay in Goya hills is more than just a stay; it is a home close to nature, peace and comfort. Hurry! Book your stay with Goya Hills by giving us a call on + 91 9024082177.
