Tucked away in the centre of Bharatpur district, Band Baretha Wildlife Sanctuary is a calm yet hidden natural treasure in Rajasthan. Though many visitors head to the renowned Keoladeo National Park, Band Baretha provides a site rich in history, rich in biodiversity, and stunningly attractive. Running along the Aravalli range, this 10 square kilometers sanctuary is a quiet haven for wildlife lovers, animal photographers, and everyone wanting to enjoy the raw, unadulterated beauty of natural surrounds.
Key Details
- Location: Band Baretha, Mahmadpura, Rajasthan 321405
- Timings: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM (best to visit during morning or evening hours)
- Entry Fee: Entry Fee: ₹20 per person
Jeep Safari: ₹800 per person
Jeep Safari with Camping and Lunch: ₹1600 per person
Originally a royal hunting reserve, Band Baretha dates back to the Maharajas. It now falls under Rajasthan Forest Department protection and is a vital habitat for migratory and resident birds, animals, and uncommon plants.
What You Can Spot
With more than 200 bird species reported so far, band Baretha is primarily known for its bird population. During the winter season, many migrating birds use the refuge as a breeding habitat, which is absolutely essential. Among the noteworthy bird kinds are:
- Sarus Crane
- Painted Stork
- Black-necked Stork
- Bar-headed Goose
- Greylag Goose
- Indian Courser
- White-throated Kingfisher
- Spotted Dove
Besides birds, the sanctuary is home to several leopards, hyenas, jackals, wild boars, blue bulls nilgai), and chinkara. Tiny mammals like porcupines, jungle cats, and other reptiles help to increase the biodiversity of this peaceful sanctuary as well.
Built under royal control, the Baretha Dam enhances the ecosystem, therefore enabling aquatic life and offering a necessary water source for birds and animals.
Best of All: Why Visit Band Baretha?
- Unlike commercialised wildlife parks, Band Baretha offers tranquilly, untouched environments, and close experiences with nature.
- The sanctuary draws a range of species that make it a favourite for ornithologists and wildlife photographers with marshes, hills, and forest cover.
- The remnants of the ancient Baretha palace and the historical Baretha Dam give the wild beauty a vintage touch.
- Though without the throng, proximity to Bharatpur makes it a simple addition to your Rajasthan schedule.
Band Baretha is about feeling linked to nature in its simplest form—watching cranes dance in marshes, listening to the gentle rustle of leaves, and hiking through forest paths with panoramic vistas, not only about ticking off species from a list.
Nearby Places to Explore
While you’re in the area, be sure to check out these close-by sites:
- Just 45 kilometres from Band Baretha, Keoladeo National Park—a UNESCO World Heritage Site and maybe the most renowned bird sanctuary in India.
- A former royal home, Deeg Palace is a short drive away and renowned for its beautiful architecture and water gardens.
- A historic fort constructed in the 18th century, Lohagarh Fort, Bharatpur shows Rajasthan’s heroic past.
These places provide history, architecture, and more birdwatching chances—just right for a visit to Band Baretha.
Explore More Nature: Udaipur & Goya Hills
Is your adventure spirit still alive after visiting Band Baretha? Think about continuing on to Udaipur, a city famed for its lakes, hills, and undiscovered animal treasures. One such site is the Sajjangarh Biological Park, next to the famous Monsoon Palace. Set against a rich environment, it’s a wonderful place to see many animals in semi-natural settings.
Goya Hills, a villa in Udaipur, provides a quiet hideaway for a relaxed stay surrounded by nature. Tucked among beautiful surroundings, it’s great for relaxing after your animal trips. Goya Hills combines comfort with the splendor of Udaipur’s outdoors whether your preferences are for a peaceful night under the stars or a nature-oriented stay. To know more about the villa, give us a call at +91 9024082177
