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Local Birdwatchers

Using the Birdingpal resources you must agree to the following: If you contact a local Birdingpal and make arrangement to go birding, you should note it is common courtesy to make sure you show up for the appointment. If for any reason you are unable to do this, the least you must do is contacting the local Pal right away.
Please note that most Birdingpals are serious birdwatchers. It is a privilege to contact them, and your message should reflect it. A local Pal does not get paid, but should he/she offer to take you out birding, using their own vehicle, it would be courteous to pay for the fuel. A lunch and/or a small gift would also be appropriate, something as simple as a souvenir of your country, or a pin from your local birding club.
Shortcuts to Local Pals and Information:
Andhra Pradesh Assam Bengal Delhi Goa Gujarat Haryana
Himachal Pradesh Jammu and Kashmir Karnataka Kerala Madhya Pradesh Maharashtra Orissa Pondicherry
Poschim Bongo Punjab Rajasthan Tamil Nadu Uttar Pradesh Uttrakhand
Professional guides Local Information
Initial Last Name Area Available Language

 
PS Debre Hyderabad, Andhra Pradesh Anytime English, Hindi, Bangla
I am Consultant Neurologist, at Apollo Hospitals. Birdwatching is my new hobby, when I shifted in new home at Cybercity. Other interests, Yoga, Meditation, Rekhi, Hypnosis, Alternative medicine. Hyderabad is on Deccan plateu, of India, more than 250 species recorded by local birdwatcher group.
V Lakka Hyderabad, Andhra Pradesh Weekend English, Hindi, Telugu
Masters in biological sciences, Domain consultant for organic store. Passion is observing nature, birdwatching, painting, yoga, walking, environmental conservation and organic farming.
A Deep Hyderabad, Andhra Pradesh Weekend English, Hindi, Telugu
A learner and explorer, enjoys birding as a part of nature walks and treks in and around my residing state of Andhra Pradesh.
A Hashim Hyderabad, Andhra Pradesh Weekend English, Hindi
I have a Masters in Environmental Science from Brunel University. Have been birdwatching and ringing for a long time.


  Asif Arastu Hyderabad, Andhra Pradesh Anytime English, Hind, Urdui
  I am an amateur birdwatcher and bird photographer. I have been birding since 16 years in and around Hyderabad city in India. I work as a librarian in a school and often take out time during weekends for bird photography. I am also a member of Deccan Birders - a society which encourages birding and conservation. Area:
Narsapur forest, Vikarabad forest area, Osmansagar lake-backwaters, Himayatsagar lake-backwaters, Manjeera Dam, Ameenpur Lake, Anantagiri hills, Sanjeeviah Park, Nehru Zoological Park, Peeramcheravu Lake

Area Birds:
Interests:
Nature: birdwatching, twitching, photography, hiking, butterflies
Travel: train, bus, car, hitchhiking, biking, long walk, backpack
Visit: tourist site, museum, restaurant, club, vineyard, outdoors, nature spot, beach, lake, ocean, architecture, shop, antique, swap
Attend: concert, horse race, ballet, dance show, theatre,  sports event, auction, antique, convention, protest, competition
Participate: social games, computer games

M Prudhvo Hyderabad, Andhra Pradesh Anytime English
My place is historial city. Near by we got Manjera Lake where number of birds come for pouching.
A Ramamurthy Hyderabad, Andhra Pradesh Weekend English, Kannada, Tamil
I am an Ex Pat orginally from Bangalore, India. During my last year of Graduate school, I had a cursory interest in birding but it was my first three years in the US, that I got into this as an active hobby. I have not been active in the field of bird watching the past 27 years and just getting reconnected back with this hobby. I reside in Hyederabad and have just joined the Andhra Pradesh Bird Watchers Association.



N Charan Secunderabad, Telangana Only on Sunday English, Hindi, Telugu, Tamil, Gujarati, Kannada etc
I am a Scientist and I have worked in different parts of India, Russia, Malaysia, Sri Lanka, China, Madagascar, South Africa, U.K etc.

I am a geologist by profession and during field trips I have seen a lot of flora and fauna in their natural habitat. Watching Nature in its diversity is a greatly soothing and peaceful feeling, making one wonder at its grandeur.
Area:
Ranthambor, Pulicat Lake,Rann of Kutch etc.

Area Birds:
Egret, Spoon Bill, Pelican,Sauraus Crane etc,.
Interests:
Nature: birdwatching, twitching, photography, butterflies, fishing, skiing, swimming, beach, surfing, snowmobiling, sky diving
Travel: stroll, walking, hiking, climbing, train, bus, car, hitchhiking, biking, long walk, packpack, portage, canoe, ship, cruise, pilot, dog sled, snow mobile
Visit: tourist site, museum, restaurant, club, vineyard, ski run/trail, monument, arboretum, architecture appreciation, shop, antique, fashion, tech
Attend: concert, horse race, ballet, dance show, theatre, live music, sports event, auction, antique, convention, political rally, protest, competition, swap
Participate: night life, party, dance, club, bar, rock, country, classical, hiphop, rap, swing, wine, beer, liquor, social games, computer games, casino


S Gunnala Secunderabad, Andhra Pradesh Weekend English, Hindi, Telugu
Very enthusiastic in nature and live in an area with lots of greenary.
B Anand Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh Weekend English, Hindi, Telegu
I am a post graduate of Forestry Management M.Phil level course (Natural Resources Management)and work for Not for profit organizations. I live very close to R.K.Beach of Visakhapatnam. Indira Gandhi Zoological park is situated in Visakhapatnam amidst the scenic eastern ghats of India, flanked by hills on either side and Bay of Bengal on the east.Kondakarla Ava is indeed a picturesque sight. It also has the bird sanctuary located in the lush green and serene surroundings. This sanctuary has a rich diversity of bird species. It is a delight for all bird watchers. The quiet surroundings and pristine views will be a delight. Grey/ Rosy pelicans, Pied horn bills, painted storks, peacocks, ducks, love birds, cockateels are found in and around Vizag. The Kambalakonda Wildlife Sanctuary is a beautiful stretch of green expanse that houses some of the most rare and endangered species.Trekking through the slopes and terrain of this amazing forest, view from wooden platform and boating on the large reservoirs present in the park is worth experiencing.
P Vikram Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh Weekend English, Telugu, Hindi
I am a Chartered Accountant based in Visakhapatnam(Vizag) and a member of the Birdwatchers Society of Andhra Pradesh. I do this as a Hobby. Visakhapatnam is at the far end of the Eastern Ghats. People can spend sometime for birding in the Easter Ghats and a few places around Visakhapatnam.
Bengal
 
B Soham Alipurudar, West Bangal
and Lausanne, Vaud, Switzerland
Anytime English, Hindi
I have been birding for many years in easten himalayas near my home and in Kolkata. My hometown is on the edge of Buxa Tiger reserve, which is also hotspot for birds. Bhutan foothills are around 30km away, at the Northern edge of the tiger reserve. Singalila national park, Mahananda Wild Life Sanctuary, Assam and Sikkim are other places easily accesible from my area. I have been doing birdwatching for nearly eight years in India and have contact with the local birdwatching community in the state of West Bengal. In last three years I have also been doing bird photography.

I have lived in Lausanne, Switzerland from 2013 and just starting to bird here.

For one to two months a year, I return to my hometown Alipurduar in India for intensive birdwatching tours. The time of my visits to India each year is not absolutely fixed. I had a month long trip in May. I am usually there for at most two months for the main birding season, between November and February. The exact time will be fixed a few months before I go and depends upon my and my birding partner's schedules. Generally I avoid the monsoon season to keep my gear safe.
I will be happy to have a birding pal accompany us on such a tour in Eastern Himalayas.

Cheers,
Soham

 
Hotspots: In Alipurduar; Buxa Tiger Reserve, 284 bird species with specials like Jerdon's baza. Other birding hotspots like Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary (Rufous Necked Hornbill), Sikkim (Satyr Tragopan, Himalayan Monal) and Bhutan are easily reachable by car

 
Interests: Nature: birdwatching, photography, hiking Travel: train, bus, car, hitchhiking, biking, long walk, packpack Visit: museum, outdoors, nature spot, beach, lake, ocean Attend: sports event Participate: beer

 
Assam
 
R Boiragi Dibrugarh, Assam Weekend English, Hindi
Dibrugarh is in northeast India which is a biodiversity hotspot. It is also close to Arunachal Pradesh and is on the south bank of the Brahmaputra River.
A Boiragi Dibru-Saikhowa, Assam Anytime English, Spanish
Dibru Saikhowa National Park is one of the nineteen biodiversity hotspots in the world, where it hosts varied species of avian life.
M Imran Tinsukia, Assam Anytime Hindi, English
I am a bussiness man, a residense of Tinsukia town. Our hot spot are Dibru-saikhowa National Park, Mishimi Hill, Namdapha National Park and Bherjan Wildlife Sanctuary.

 



M Joseph New Delhi, Delhi Saturdays and Sundays English, Hindi, Telugu, Malayalam
I'm a birder with a special interest in high quality bird photography.

I am the founder of Delhi Bird Photographers, an active group of birders and photographers conducting bird walks every weekend for the past two years.

Professionally, I head an American company in India and birding is a passion.
Area:
Okhla, Surajpur, Dhanauri, Basai, Sultanpur

Area Birds:
Migrants and residents
Interests:
Nature: birdwatching, twitching, photography, butterflies, fishing, skiing, swimming, beach, surfing, snowmobiling, sky divingTravel: stroll, walking, hiking, climbing, train, bus, car, hitchhiking, biking, long walk, packpack, portage, canoe, ship, cruise, pilot, dog sled, snow mobileVisit: tourist site, museum, restaurant, club, vineyard, ski run/trail, monument, arboretum, architecture appreciation, shop, antique, fashion, techAttend: concert, horse race, ballet, dance show, theatre, live music, sports event, auction, antique, convention, political rally, protest, competition, swapParticipate: night life, party, dance, club, bar, rock, country, classical, hiphop, rap, swing, wine, beer, liquor, social games, computer games, casino



S Sharma Delhi, Delhi anytime English, Hindi
I would be happy to show you around my backyard birding sites. I live in Sultanpur village, and know many interesting areas outside the Sultanpur National Park itself. I am also familiar with many other birding hotspots in North India. Area:
Sultanpur, Okhla, Asola, Bharatpur

Area Birds:
Sind Sparrow, White-tailed Lapwing, Brooks's Leaf Warbler
Interests:
Nature: birdwatching
R Mann Delhi, Delhi Weekend English, Hindi, Punjabi
Staying in Vasant Kunj, very interested in learning about nature photography, birding and a good day out in the sun.
S Verm Delhi, Delhi Anytime English, Hindi
Home to many local species and migratory birds.
A Jha Delhi, Delhi Weekend English, Hindi
I am passionate bird watcher and photographer, who is out birding every weekend.



N Sethi New Delhi, Delhi Anytime Hindi, English
spotted crake ,baillons crake ,water rail Area:
Okhla Bird Sanctuary, Sultanpur National Park, Basai Wetlands

Area Birds:
white tailed stonechat,striated babbler,yellow bellied prinia,brown crake
Interests:
Nature: birdwatching, twitching, photography, butterflie,
Travel: stroll, walking, hiking, train, bus, car, long walk, mobile
Visit: tourist site, museum, restaurant, monument, architecture appreciation, shop, antique, fashion, tech
Attend: concert, ballet, theatre

 

  Z Sahil Mount Abu, Rajasthan Anytime English, Hindi, Spanish
  Birder, researcher and naturalist. I split my time between England, Spain and India. Involved with conservation work.

Area:
Mount Abu is a hill-station situated in the southern Aravalli mountain range in Rajasthan. It is the principal stronghold of the green avadavat (green munia).

A number of birding hotspots are spread across a higher altitude and the foothills in the area. It is an Important Bird and Biodiversity Area (IBA) and around 200 species have been recorded.


Area Birds:
Green avadavat (Green Munia), Indian scimitar babbler, Indian blackbird, Indian yellow tit, Red-whiskered bulbul (abuensis subspecies), Red spurfowl, Grey junglefowl, Jungle bush quail, Crested bunting, White-capped bunting, Brown-capped Pygmy Woodpecker, tawny-bellied babbler, Peregrine falcon, Oriental honey-buzzard, Common buzzard among many others.
Interests:
Nature: birdwatching, twitching, photography.
Travel: car, long walk.
Visit: outdoors, nature spot, lake, architecture.

K Koshy New Delhi, Delhi Anytime English, Hindi, Malayalam, Tamil, Punjabi
I have fairly good knowledge about birding areas in and around Delhi, in Rajasthan, Pinjab, Kerala.

 
E Brito Candolim, North Goa Anytime English, Konkani, Hindi, Portuguese, Marathi
Am a keen Bird Photographer who lives in Candolim, North Goa and spends a lot of time discovering new spots. I read and research a lot on Ornithology and like to keep abreast. I am very happy to take anyone with the same interests around to find new spots as well as sharing my knowledge
A Banerji Margao, Goa Anytime English, Hindi, Marathi, Konkani, other Indian languages
I took to Birding as a kid watching the great Dr. Salim Ali. I have been since the last 10 months been extensively documenting and photographing bird life in the South Goa water bodies, Cottigao and Bondla Sanctuary along with other forested areas of South Goa.
Birding in Goa

 


A Chavda Gandhinagar, Gujarat Weekends, Weekdays in winters Gujarati, Hindi, English
I have been birding since last 5 years. Majorly have done birding in India(Gujarat, Rajasthan, Delhi, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Telangana, West Bengal). and Overseas(Sudan, Afghanistan,Oman, UAE).

I opt for birding every weekend through out the year except extreme heat of May-June and heavy rainy days.

I would take you to the areas of Gujarat which are known but still undiscovered.
Area:
Indroda Nature Park,Thol , Nal Sarovar, LRK, Gir

Area Birds:
Migrating, Nesting, Mating, Residents
Interests:
Nature: birdwatching, photography, butterflies, skiing, swimming, beach, surfing, Travel: stroll, walking, hiking, climbing, train, bus, car, hitchhiking, biking, long walk, packpack, portage, canoe, ship, cruise, Visit: tourist site, restaurant, club, monument,architecture appreciation, Attend: concert, dance show, live music, sports event, competition, Participate: dance, club, country, classical, hiphop, rap, swing, social games
M Chokshi Ahmedabad, Gujarat Anytime Gujarati, English, Hindi
I am an passionate birdwatcher and avid photographer. Ahmedabad is a starting point for great birdwatching places like Nalsarover Lake, Thol Lake, The Little Rann of Kutch, Velavadhar National Park, though Gir is slightly at a distance. The areas around Ahmedabad are also best to see the glorious Sarus Crane.
M Mistry Ahmedabad, Gujarat Anytime English, Gujarati, Hindi
Keen birdwatcher since 1985, love to travel various types of terrain and area for birding. Spent nearly 15 yrs in forest. Know birding places in Gujarat especially Polo forest, Danta forest, Vagheshwari, Jambughoda and Dang forest.
M Datey Ahmedabad, Gujarat Weekend English, Hindi, Marathi, a little French, German
Hello, I'm from Ahmedabad. There are a number of interesting birding sites around here. Anyone interested in forming a birder's group?
A Vyas Ahmedabad, Gujarat Anytime English, Gujarati, Hindi, Marathi
An avid nature lover and an amateur wildlife photographer. Loves to be in nature.
M Sinha Ahmedabad, Gujarat Anytime Hindi, English, Gujarati
This is Manoj and quite interested in birding and fond of photograph them.
J Nahar Ahmedabad, Gujarat Weekend English, Hindi, Malayalam, Kannada, Tamil
I have been working in the ecotourism industry for the past several years, worked with Madhya Pradesh Ecotourism Development Board and subsequently with Jungle Lodges and Resorts in Karnataka. Currently I work and live at Ahmedabad, Gujarat and keep travelling to different parts of the state and maintain special interest on birding areas.
J Kumar Ahmedabad, Gujarat Weekend English, Hindi, Bengali, Russian, Spanish
I have been engaged in birding for the last two decades, especially in Himalayan region, its foothills, Northern and Western India practising bird photography, both through analogue and digital gear-using 300mm and 200-400mm lenses. The region around Ahmedabad has Nal Sarovar, one of the largest natural lakes in India with an abundance of native and migratory birds.
T Naik Ahmedabad, Gujarat Anytime English, Hindi, Gujarati
Ahmedabad and surroundings are rich in birds, particularly migrant water birds. Plus Gujarat has ample opportunities for excellent birding.
R Pansare Ahmedabad, Gujarat Weekend English, Marathi, Hindi, Broken Gujarati
Avid nature lover and amateur wildlife photographer, currently staying in Ahmedabad and available on 2nd and 4th Saturday-Weekends for overnite birding trips and all Sundays for one-day trips to Nalsarovar or Thol Bird Sanctuaries.
B Patel Anand, Gujarat Anytime Gujarati, Hindi, English
Anand district has a rich population of resident and migratory birds. Anand district covers Kanevaal Lake, costal Cambay area, and Pariej Lake is nearby.
M Joshi Jamnagar, Gujarat Anytime English, Hindi, Gujarati
Jamnagar is very famous for migratory birds specially for waders like Crabplover, Sanderling, Broad-billed Sandpiper etc. It is also known for marine life where you can find Octopus, Puffer Fish, Nudibranch without snorkeling or scuba-diving just by walk through the sea during low tide. Winter is a best time to come Jamnagar. Also I want to mentioned, "The Jamnagar is a historical city. It is 400 years ancient city".
R Desai Navsari, Gujarat Weekend English, Hindi, Gujarati
Navsari has rich biodiversity of variety of bird.
DV Mavadia Vadodara, Gujarat Anytime English, Hindi, Gujarati
Doing Birdwatching since year 2000 and also interested in Trees, Insects, Amphibians etc.
R Sinha Roy Vadodara, Gujarat Weekend English, Hindi, Bangla
I am a 59 Years old Corporate Trainer. I am being propelled by the desire for Nature Photography and have recently started photo-ducumenting my travels. On November 03, 2012, going to a Bird Sanctuary near Dabhoi, a place about 45 Kms. from Vadodara. This will be my first.
A Sabavala Vadodara, Gujarat Anytime English, Guajarti, Hindi
I have been birding in Baroda for many years & have a checklist of some 290 species within a 100 kms radius of the city. We have some good wetlands, scrubland and forests around giving a good variety of birds.
A Raina Veraval, Gujarat Anytime Hindi, Gujarati, Punjabhi, Englisth, Spanish
I am working as developer on ERP SAP. I am into birding since childhood. I hold good knowledge over wildlife issues, reptiles and mammals. Living at coastal town of Veraval. I am aware of around 10 best places for birding. I am avid photographer with collection of around 300 species of bird captured from across India. I am aware of locations around GIR NATIONAL PARK, THOL BIRD SANCTUARY, KHIJADIA BIRD SANCTUARY, NALSAROVAR BIRD SANCTUARY,NARAYAN SAROVAR SANCTUARY, VELAVADAR NATIONAL PARK,BARDA HILLS WILDLIFE SANCTURY. Overall Wildlife fascinates me including coastal flora and fauna.
S Bhut Veraval (Somnath), Gujarat Anytime Gujarati, Hindi, English
I know only ABC's of birding, but I am keen on it. Birds are greatly useful for our very existance, therefore I love birds. I would love to help u if u r visiting my area. Birding points near my place: Triveni River, Somnath Temple (7 km), Veraval, Gir Sasan (36 km.), Kodinar (45 km). U r most welcome.



A Sharma Mcleodganj, Himachal Pradesh Anytime English, Hindi, Punjabi
Dharamsala region is one of the large and varied distribution of Eco system of different species of birds from low land water birds to high altitude Snow cock etc. Area:
Pong Lake,Great Himalayan National Park

Area Birds:
Western Tragopan,Himalayan Monal,Water Birds,Snow Cock,Cheer Pheast\ents etc.
Interests:
Nature: birdwatching, swimming, walking, hiking, packpack, dog sled,tourist site, museum, restaurant, club, vineyard, ski run/trail, monument, arboretum, architecture appreciation, shop, antique, fashion, techAttend: concert, horse race, ballet, dance show, theatre, live music, auction, antique, convention,protest, competition,night life, party, dance, club, bar, rock, country, classical, hiphop, rap, swing, wine, beer, social games,

 
A Katoch Pong Dam/Kangra, Himachal Pradesh Anytime Hindi, English
I run a lodge "Lodge at Pong" on the shores of the Pong Dam, one of the largest man made lake in India (500 sq.km's). Pong has been recognised by the Ramsar society as a Bird Sanctuary.
Visit my website

Jammu And Kashmir


LT Visuddha Leh Ladakh, Jammu and Kashmir March until May and Sept. until November is good time for birding in Ladakh. Tibetan, Ladakhi, English, Hindi and Kannada
I do not have background of a professional study on birds.

I had interest in wildlife and birds of the Ladakh, but really until I came across a friend of mine from U.S.A Kelly Klien who gifted me all the books on birds available in a book store in Leh.

Going through these books, I realised I was so ignorant about the very avifauna that I was sourrounded by. I run a travel company (Ancient Tracks)in Leh as my business and came across a client (Rajneesh Suvarna) who happened to be a great birder. Chalking out his itinerary brought me closer to the hotspots of avifauna of my region - Ladakh.

Inspired by these two person who were non local/Ladakhi, I took keen study and interests in the wildlife of Ladakh. Over the years, I have managed sensitise and bring awareness of the wild animals and birds of Ladakh firstly to the local and the tourists.

Through my facebook page - Ladakh Birds Club 300, I have managed to share birding information to masses. I am invited as one of the very few Admins of one of the largest Birding Group on facebook - Indian Birds.

I have managed to take my regular tourist guests to birding hotspots by encouraging them to be sesitive about the avifauna of my land - Ladakh.

Sadly, the locals tradititionally in Ladakh are not well-versed in identifying their own local birds and ignorant about the pros and cons of protection, conservation, etc.

Though some national and International NGOs are stationed in Leh, but their intitiatives are not local based, locally initiated and hence often limited to fulfilling the objectives. To fill the gap, I with a team of enlightened friends started the Wildlife Conservation and Birds Club of Ladakh and we are trying our best to fulfill our objectives which are urgent, needing immediate action (no theoritical seminars and talks and conferneces).
Area:
Rumbak Valley (Hemis High Altitude National Park), Tsokar Lake, Indus Valley

Area Birds:
Ibisbill, Humme' Gound Pecker, White-browed Tit Wabler, Black-necked Crane,
Interests:
Nature: birdwatching, Trekking, Jeep Safari, photography, butterflies, Travel: stroll, walking, hiking, climbing, bus, car, hitchhiking, biking, long walk, Visit: tourist site, museum, restaurant, club, vineyard, monument, arboretum, architecture appreciation, shop, antique, fashion, tech Attend: Green Talks,Sustainable Talks concert, dance show, theatre, live music, sports event, antique, convention, political rally, protest, competition, Participate: Long talk on issues impacting life - religion, politics, developement, environment,night life, party, dance, club, bar, rock, country, classical, hiphop, rap, wine, beer, liquor, social games, computer games, Conservation, Protection and Preservation of Avifauna.

 

Inactive
PK Bopanna Bangalore, Karnataka Anytime English/Dutch
Hindi/Kannada
I live in Bangalore which is a short hop from the Western Ghats in South India where a lot of exotic species are to be found. Bangalore is the closest International Airport for access to the Rajiv Gandhi National Park (Nagarhole), Mudhumalai National Park (Bandipur/Masinagudi) and the Bhadra Tiger Reserve. I'm an avid outdoorsman with years of experience in Birding and well trained in outdoor survival and first aid techniques.
MN Sundar Bangalore, Karnataka Weekend English, Kannada, Hindi
I stay in Bangalore, and have been birding for over 4 years now. Have a good insight on birds in Karnataka, their habitats etc. I conduct birding classes, and take people on tours during weekends. Please take time to visit my work
www.facebook.com/NijgalPhotography
J Balamurugan Bangalore, Karnataka Anytime English, Hindi, Tamil, Kannada, Malayama, Telugu
I have a guest house attached to Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary/Bandipur National Park suitable for seeing wide variety of birds in the area. You can see some of my pictures on www.wildlifesanctuaryindia.com/bird-watching-india.asp I am availbale on most weekends. I am an amateur bird watcher and just developing my bird watching ID skills best regards.
R Ashwini Bangalore, Karnataka Anytime English, Hindi, Kannada, Telugu, Tamil
I have completed B.Sc in zoology and have a very good knowledge about wildlife, ornithology and bird watching. I want to become an ornithologist. I am living in Bangalore and the nearest park I have is Bannerghatta National Park. My interests are bird watching, trekking and reading lots of wildlife books.
S Shivaram Bangalore, Karnataka Weekend English, Hindi, Kannada
I am a passionate Wildlife and Bird photographer who takes time out of the busy office schedule to go birding/photography during weekends. I live in Bangalore and travel a lot around the city during weekends for this hobby.
Visit my website
J Praveen Bangalore, Karnataka Weekend English, Hindi, Malayalam

Inactive
J Nag Bangalore, Karnataka Anytime English, Hindi, Bengali
Am a Nature enthusiast, though by vocation am a finance professional. I work as a Chief Financial Officer of a large multinational corporation in India. I love photography and am keen to learn about birds. I also draw and paint, but time does not permit me today to pursue this activites.
U Pai Bangalore, Karnataka Anytime English, Hindi, Kannada
I am avid trekker and birder visiting many places of interest in india. I have birding since last four years around bangalore and would like to share my birding experience with other fellow birders.
S Rao Bangalore, Karnataka Weekend English
Amateur bird photographer (http://flickr.com/photos/9494793@N06/). Lots of good birding sites around southern India.
B Raj Bangalore, Karnataka Weekend English, Kannada, Telugu, Hindi
I'm Bhaskar Raj B.M, working in TCS, Bangalore. I'm really keen to know nature around me, and with this as a propelling force, am interested in birds too.
CK Subramanya Bangalore, Karnataka Weekend Kannada, Hindi, English
I am an Electronics Engineer by profession and a nature lover/Photographer by hobby. I love travelling in the country side over weekends and to forests during holidays to satisfy my hobby.
N Bhatia Bangalore, Karnataka Weekend Hindi, English
A hobbyist photographer, birdwatcher, love trekking, exploring the ourdoors etc.

Inactive
K Srinivas Bangalore, Karnataka Anytime English, Hindi, Tamil, Telegu, Kannada, Marathi
Keen birdwatcher since 1995. Plenty of experience in organising birding tours for groups. I have a good knowledge of prime birding locations near Bangalore, many of which are off the beaten track. I live close to Bannerghatta National Park and have organised special birding tours deep within the forest reserve, for really serious birders. I am also a qualified pharmacist, with useful first-aid skills.
CS Bandi Bangalore, Karnataka Weekend English
I am hobby birder from Bangalore and did my basic naturalist course. I usually bird with group of friends and won't mind volunteering my time on weekends to take anyone around for birding in and around Bangalore.
SP Kumar Bangalore, Karnataka Anytime English, Hindi, Kannada, Telgu, Tamil
Residing near Gnana Bharti.
D Dutta Bangalore, Karnataka Anytime English, Hindi, Bengali
I am a software professional staying in Bangalore. I have been to a number of forests and natural spots around South India including Periyar WLS, Nagerhole NP, Bandipur NP, Mudumalai NP, Bababudan range, etc. Started taking interest in birding, bird spotting and birding photography. Just picked up my first book in birding: "The Book of Indian Birds" by Dr Salim Ali.
V Vaidyanathan Bangalore, Karnataka Weekend Tamil, English, Hindi
Photography is my hobby and brought in passion for birds. Love to spend weekends in shooting birds in and around Bangalore.
M Duvvuri Bangalore, Karnataka Weekend English, Hindi, Telugu
I run the India centric website called Real Time Birds.
P Mylvarabatla Bangalore, Karnataka Weekend English, Hindi, Telugu, Kannada
I am a IT consultant by profession, live in Bangalore and am a wildlife enthusiast. I also do a lot of bird photography in and around Bangalore.
V Mahajan Bangalore, Karnataka Weekend English, Hindi, Punjabi
I am an IT professional living in Bangalore for over 1 year. I like to go bird watching and nature trails. A hobbyist photographer, I like to read about wildlife and travel to various places. Looking for a partner for bird watching in Karnataka.

Inactive
AK Nagaraja Bangalore, Karnataka Anytime English
I am an engineer, who worked in the earthmoving industry. Now retired, travelling, bird and nature watching have been major hobbies. The city of Bangalore is a leading industrial centre, with virtually every world reknowned computer firms having their offices, apart from that it has indutries from other sectors also. The weather is excellent through out the year. It is also known as the AIRCONDITIONED CITY. It prides itself in having two beautiful parks, namely Lalbagh and Cubbon Park, in addition to innumerable smaller parks. There are a number of places for birding in and around Banagalore. The state of Karnataka has anumber of places for birding. The mountanous Western Ghats are a treat for any nature lover. These are to be seen to be believed.
M Abraham Bangalore, Karnataka Weekend English, Kannada, Tamil, Malayalam, Hindi
HI guys, I am Mathew Abraham,a medical student. I stay on Sarjapur Road close to Bellandur, the area has got a lot of lakes, great bird watching around here! Look foward to meeting some of u guys and some great birding.
P Bhagyanarayana Bangalore, Karnataka Weekend Kannada, English, Hindi, Telugu, Tamil
I am a hobby photographer. I usual roam around bangalore birding spots and lakes for photography. I know quite lot of birding photography spots in and around Bangalore. I am not a expert in identifying birds but I can identify most of them in this region.
You can see my photography here.
S Shurpali Bangalore, Karnataka Weekend English, Kannada, Hindi
I have been birding around Bangalore for more than five years now and have done birding around India. Bangalore has some interesting habitat. In the north we have Nandi Hills which has some evergreen patches. In the North west we have Hesaraghatta with a bund, a thorny forest, a grassland and a small forest cover. There are some more bunds and lakes in and around which are interesting birding areas. South has a national park.
G Bhatia Bangalore, Karnataka Anytime English, Hindi, Bengali
I have been birding across India for more than 5 years. I am familiar with the Bangalore birding hotspots and can guide visiting birders if I am in town, or direct them to other birding groups in the city.
AS Kannan Bangalore, Karnataka Anytime English, Hindi, Tamil
I am avid birder and photographer in Bangalore. I have been birding since 2009 and know many of the good places around Bangalore for birdwatching. As of now, my work does not need me to travel much, so I am available for most weekends for a birding trip.
N Toppo Bangalore, Karnataka Weekend English, Hindi
I stay in Bangalore, which one of the biggest metropolitan city in India.
S Dutta Bangalore, Karnataka Weekend English
I live in Bangalore and surrounded by a few national parks and Bird sanctuaries in 200-300km distance. Iam a photographer in my free time and an avid Birder. Karnataka state has a unique belt of western ghats, vast stretches of plains and a part of Deccan plateau. These varied biotops presents rich and diverse biodiversity and a very rich bird life. I know the most birding hotspots in the state, some close to Bangalore and some over night destinations. Would love to take like minded birders to some of these place, if Iam free on that weekend. I do not charge any fees but would expect gas and other spot expenses to be taken care of.
My photography work can be seen here.
MN Sundar Bangalore, Karnataka Weekend English, Kannada, Hindi
I stay in Bangalore, and have been birding for over 4 years now. Have a good insight on birds in Karnataka, their habitats etc. I conduct birding classes, and take people on tours during weekends. Please take time to visit my work
www.facebook.com/NijgalPhotography
T Guruprasad Belgaum, Karnataka Anytime Kannada, English, Hindi
I belong to a village where a Dam is built across the rive Ghataprabha. Where we have good raptor population and good number of winter visitors along with lots of local terrestrial birds.
R Mishra Coorg, Karnataka Weekend English
I am a nature lover, golfer and keen photgrapher. Birds in Coorg are a treat to any one with a keen eye and patience to explore the mountains, valleys and the rich cofee estates.
V Kumar Dandeli, Karnataka Anytime English
P Manekkera Mananthavady Wayand, Karnataka Weekend English, Bengali, Thamil, Malayalam
A bird watcher, photographer and videographer. Recorded bird movie of Kerala now going to create a vcd of birds. I can identify about 300 birds and took birdwatching as a serious subject. About my area there are many birds like Swallow, Martin. Baya and Streked Weaver birds nesting area(August and September), Bee Eater nesting area(April May), Malabar Grey Hornbill nest(April), Warblers, Tailor Bird, Ceylon Frogmouth, three type of Skylarks, Lapwings etc.
R Singal Manipal, Karnataka Anytime Excellent English, Hindi, understand French
I am a college student, and have been birdwatching for over 4 years now. I am very well versed with North and South Indian birds, their habits and call - and have led and introduced many novices into birdwatching, apart from leading a few survey groups for winter bird counts. I tend to bird by my ear, which is of great help in my area - an evergreen area, very dense, and situated between the foothills of the Western Ghats and the coast. Although not yet good at phishing, I have developed more patient, albeit time taking, techniques to get good looks at skulkers and endemics. My area offers about 10 western ghats endemics throughout the year, and more can be seen depending on the weather conditions - when the birds are driven to the foothills from the higher reaches. For migrant specialties, the sea and mangrove forests are less than an hour away and every winter, the area offers a chance to see almost all the coastal waders/other migrants that are present on the sub-continental checklist. More famous birding sites like Goa and the Kerala rainforest are also close by, and I am well experienced with birdwatching at both places.
Note: From May-July and during December, I am based in New Delhi - another area with which I am extremely familiar with and where I have birded extensively for two years, in groups and solo as well. I know the sites for all specialties and I know the people who can get them for you as well.
R Rao Mysore, Karnataka Anytime English, Hindi, Kannada
Mysore Karnataka, is a nice place for Bird watching and photography. Plenty of Bird Sanctuaries, Wild-life Parks and Lakes makes it an ideal place to start off on Bird-watching and Wild-life photography.
B Yashaswini Mysore, Karnataka Weekend English, Hindi, Kannada, Tamil
Mysore is a very serene place with lots of water spots, which make it a good birding place. With many bird santuaries around it is cool.

 
D Xavier Attapady, Kerala Anytime English
I live in Silent Valley National Park area of the Nilgiri bio reserve in Kerala.
R Bhatter Ernakulam/Chennai, Kerala Anytime very fluent in English
I live in Ernakulam which is very close to Thattekad (Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary). Periyar National Park, The Kole Wetlands (A Ramsar Site) are not far from where I live. I have been birding for 8 yrs now. I can also take you to other parts of India if interested.
VS Abilash Cochi, Kerala Weekend English, Malayalam
I am a naturalist working in Coconut Lagoon at Kumarakom. My house is at the Thattekkad Bird Sanctuary, where 340 species of birds can be found. From Nedumbassery airport to Kothamangalam (47 km) there is only 12 km to Thattekkad sanctuary.
K Kinattukara Cochi, Kerala Anytime English
I am a real estate business man with keen interest in bird photography. I am from Kerala, a state on the lap of western ghats of India, known for great bird life. Please visit Kerala tourism on Internet.
P Abdurazaq Kannur, Kerala Anytime Malayalam, Hindi, English
An amatuer birder from, Kattampally wet lands in Kannur.
S Sandeep Trichur, Kerala Weekend Malayalam, English
I am a final year student in zoology. The Kole wetlands are famous for its wetland birds. They are specially abundant in winter(december to may).

 
R Biswas Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh Weekend English, Bengali, Hindi, Nepali, Kannada
I am new to Bhopal and would be interested to learn more about the flora and fauna there.
M Khalique Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh Anytime English, Hindi
Birding is my hobby. I also run a birding group "bhopalbirds". I organize 500 birding camps for students, company proffessional, army personal, teachers, national park guides etc. I am also a bird photographer. Our group is also an IBCN partner.
J Patwardhan Deogad, Madhya Pradesh Anytime English, Marathi, Hindi, Gujrati, Bengali, Punjabi
M Khan Indore, Madhya Pradesh Anytime Hindi, English
I am Birdwatchers and Wildlife Photographer. In Indore there are various birding spots at the distances of 10 to 50 kms from the city which includes wetlands, woodlands and forest patches.
R Sharma Indore, Madhya Pradesh Anytime Hindi, English
Love birding, wildlife, nature, trekking, travelling, photograpy and reading books on all the above subjects.
N Agrawal Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh Anytime English
I'm an avid wildlifer and love to explore new area.

 
H Barve Aurangabad, Maharashtra Anytime Enlish, Marathi, Hindi
I am a birder and photographer, we have around 210 species of birds around here with many waders and winter visiters. To see some of by bird images please visit
www.tigersofindia.net
P Desai Dombivli, Maharashtra Weekend Enlish, Hindi
I have been doing birding in Dombivli and nearby areas of Mumbai from Last 2 years.


N Kothare Mumbai, Maharashtra Anytime English
Amateur bird watcher from India...live in Mumbai Area:
Mumbai

Area Birds:
Interests:
Nature: birdwatching, photography, nature trails, wildlife safari.. Travel: stroll, walking, train, bus, car, long walk


N Raj Mumbai, Maharashtra Only Sunday mornings Hindi, English
Bird watching & photography is a passion. Born to live among nature. Area:
parks

Area Birds:
birds around the area
Interests:
Nature: birdwatching, wild life , photography


D D. Putatunda Mumbai, Maharashtra Sundays English
Interested in Bird Photography, Amateur hobbyist. Area:
Mumbai, Sion Fort Park

Area Birds:
Interests:
Nature: Birdwatching, photography
PA Damle Mumbai, Maharashtra Anytime English, Hindi, Marathi
Mombai City has coastline, marshes, wetlands , forests and hills. Consequently, several species of birds have been recorded. Total count is around 400 species including many migratory waders. Oct-Mar is very good for birdwatching in Mumbai.
S Rajesh Mumbai, Maharashtra Anytime English, Hindi
I am based in Kalyan city. apprx. 50 Kms from Mumbai.
K Musiff Mumbai, Maharashtra Anytime English, Hindi, Gujarati, Marathi
I live very near to the only city forest in the world viz. Sanjay Gandhi National Park/ Borivali National Park.
K Marthak Mumbai, Maharashtra Weekend English
I am a volunteere for BNHS -NGO in Wild Life India.
S Dhanuka Mumbai, Maharashtra Weekend English, Hindi, Marathi, Gujarati
I am based in Mumbai have been birding for about 9 years now. Have visited a lot of places in India and I'am an active member on a lot of wildlife related e-groups. I also lead trails for groups in Mumbai and have been assocaited with a number of nature groups here.
M Khatavkar Mumbai, Maharashtra Weekend English, Hindi
Y Holla Mumbai, Maharashtra Weekend English, Hindi
There are about 350 species of birds around Mumbai with a good variation of habitat. Weekend trips to the birding areas like SGNP, Karnala and Uran are very rewarding.
N Tavanandi Mumbai, Maharashtra Anytime Marathi, Hindi, English, Konkani
I am a nature lover and photography enthusiast. Been a birder just for over a year and until now hpped over 100 species around Gujarat, Sikkim, Delhi and Mumbai.
A Narvekar Mumbai, Maharashtra Weekend English, Marathi, Hindi
I have been birding for past 14 years and know most of places in Mumbai.
M Gadia Mumbai, Maharashtra Weekend English
Welcome to the Heat Chaos! Probably these two leads to pleasant surprise, when one sees the diverse Birds of Mumbai (from Waders to Hunters). I am a medium level Birder and would love to make friends during my Birding trips. Just dont have high expectations as sighting rare birds in concrete city of Mumbai is an effort.
S Sawant Mumbai, Maharashtra Anytime English, Hindi, Marathi
Close to Sanjay Gandhi National Park, Mumbai Tugareshwar Wildlife Sanctuary, Thane.
A Banerji Mumbai, Maharashtra Anytime English, Hindi, Marathi, Gujarati, Punjabi, Bengali
I am an amateur birder and a wildlife enthusiast. Very keen on photography and film making.
K Devarajan Mumbai, Maharashtra Anytime English, Hindi, Tamil
Area - Mumbai and surrounding areas + rest of India/the World. Maharashtra abounds in wetlands, forests, beaches, etc., that are excellent for birdwatching. I live in the IIT Bombay campus and one can easily spot 60+ species in just a couple of hours in this small area (upwards of a 100 is possible on a lucky day!). Me - I'm an ardent wildlife photographer, traveler, adventurer, writer, and former computer scientist/programmer.
N Ahuja Mumbai, Maharashtra Weekend English, Hindi
I am an amateur birding enthusiast, game for weekend treks in and around Mumbai.
K Chaudhari Mumbai, Maharashtra Weekend English, Hindi, Marathi
I am a Mumbai based freelance photographer and an avid birdwatcher. Although a metropolis Mumbai has a good biodiversity both flora and fauna. It has a national park right in its heart and there are other birding hot spots nearby such as Sewri(famous for flamingos) the Karnala Bird Sanctuary.
A Kothiala Mumbai, Maharashtra Weekend English, Local Indian Languages
Being birding since about a year (2011), more into Bird Photography, in and around Mumbai region.
R Ahal Mumbai, Maharashtra Weekend English, Hindi, a smattering of Marathi
I have come to Mumbai a year back and live in Santa Cruz (East). I have been an active birdwatcher and amateur photographer of birds in the plains and Himalayas in India and in the southern and western Africa over last two decades. I would love to join an active and interested group of people on weekend trips near-about.
B Shekhar Mumbai, Maharashtra Anytime English, Hindi, Marathi
I am a Wildlife Photographer and avid birder.Traveled extensively in India and Abroad.Would like to do bird and wildlife photography with like minded people in a group by arranging site workshops in India on long and short hauls.
P Joshi Mumbai, Maharashtra Weekend English
Amateur birder in an urban environment.
C Sengupta Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra Anytime English, Bengali, Hindi, Assamese, Punjabi, Marathi (not fluent)
I have always been passionate about nature - doing serious bird photography for last 3 years. I stay in CBD Belapur, Navi Mumbai and Uran is one place which never lets me come back empty handed. Rich is Avian fauna. You can see some of my photographs here
http://picasaweb.google.com
KV Subramanian Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra Weekend English, Hindi, Telugu, Tamil
I am keen amateur photographer specialising in bird, nature and sports photography. I am a member of Bombay Natural History society and Navi Mumbai Naturalists Namunas. We are about 25 members and pursue the hobby of birding during weekends. Navi Mumbai is host to many wonderful birding spots. Especially, Talawe, Valley Park Bbelapur, Karnala Bird Sanctuary, Kharghar Hills, Airoli and many other places in and around Navi Mumbai. We have a good group and many expert bird watchers, who are also trail leaders for BNHS and WWF.
P Srinivas Popuri Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra Weekend Hindi, English, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada
Nice Birding areas in and around the place where I am staying. Been visiting all the other IBAs in Mumbai.
M Jhaveri Prabhadevi, Mumbai, Maharashtra Anytime English, Hindi, Italian
I am a travel writer photographer. I have recently started birding seriously venture on birding expeditions very often. I live in Mumbai, a cosmopolitan city with potential birding destinations in around it like the Sanjay Gandhi National Park, Sewri mudflats for Flamingos in winter and other waders, Karnala Bird sanctuary several others. I am a frequent traveller either for work or leisure but will be glad to welcome show birders around Mumbai.
P Deshmukh Nagpur, Maharashtra Anytime English, Hindi, Marathi
I am an amatuer birder, and always ready to go for birding. I can assist and accompany for birding spots near Nagpur.
R Ghosh Nagpur, Maharashtra Anytime English, Hindi, Bengali
Nagpur has around 250 bird species and their subspecies. We have lots of birding sites where you can spot at least 70 birds in a trip.
N Barde Nagpur, Maharashtra Anytime English, Hindi
Nagpur is situated virtually in the center of India and is surrounded by Bird Sanctuary and 4-5 National Reserve Forests. I am very much interested in Bird watching as well as Wild Life Safari.
Z Lalani Nagpur, Maharashtra Anytime English


S Sohoni Pune, Maharashtra weekends English, Marathi, Hindi
I am a mechanical engineer by training and birding has been my hobby for the past 8 years.

I have done birding in south India - mainly in the states of Karnataka, Goa and Maharashtra.

I like bird watching on foot with a binocular and generally avoid big groups with several photographers.
Area:
Sinhagad valley, Kavdi Pat, Veer Dam, Mayureshwar sanctuary, Bhigwan

Area Birds:
Migratory ducks, Flamingos, Indian Courser, Waders
Interests:
Nature: birdwatching, beach
Travel: stroll, walking, hiking, motor-biking, long walk,
Visit: tourist site, museum, monument
Attend: theatre, live music
Participate: beer
Play: badminton

M Yadav Pune, Maharashtra Anytime English, Hindi
S Singh Pune, Maharashtra Weekend English, Hindi, Punjabi, Bengali
A bit about myself - 59 years old, working with a German specialty chemicals company in Pune. Wife, two daughters the elder one is married and lives in Delhi, the younger is with us and works in the back office of AXA - the French Insurance company. We also have a dog (a bitch actually but she is far from one). My parents who are in their 80s live in Delhi. My hobbies - birding (ofcourse) and bird videography (I have something like 25 hrs of videotape, which I shall one day hopefully distil into something nice for birders) with a small Handycam. If I ever get rich, I would like to upgrade to a semi-professional equipment but these are frightfully expensive. I also like to write - nothing fancy, just simple stories about things that have happened to me. As part of my work, I have travelled the length and breadth of this vast country. From Kashmir in the north to the Andaman islands to the southern tip of India. I am also fond of sports - golf, tennis and I play some bridge.
P Garde Pune, Maharashtra Anytime English, Hindi, Marathi
I am 65 years old and am birdwatching since 1978. I have published articals in local newspapers in English and Marathi at Nagpur (where I was staying earlier) about the common birds, to popularise the hobby amongst the youngsters. I discovered the presence of the Great Indian Bustard near Nagpur in Vidarbha region of Maharashtra, after an extensive survey of the area, in Oct. 1991.
RD Bhinge Pune, Maharashtra Weekend English, Hindi, Marathi
I am studying at IIT Madras and pursue birdwatching as a hobby. Feel free to contact me via mail.
R Sachdev Pune, Maharashtra Anytime English, Hindi, Marathi
Pune is a gem when it comes to birding, providing a mixture of wetlands, scrubs, thick forests and it all comes to life in the winters (Oct-Mar). Ping me if you need any help.
A Patole Pune, Maharashtra Weekend English, Marathi, Hindi
Pune is surrounded by a lot of water bodies, we get a lot migratory bird between Oct to Feb. The temp is quite comfortable for foreigners temperture goes down to 3 deg. Birds are spotted in the morning and evenings.there are a lot of forts and historic places in and around Pune. Mumbai is just 180 km and is connected by the express highway. Pune airport has flight going to practically all the major cities in India. I love photographing the wild life and close-up like small insects, flowers etc, I play the guitar and love to draw and paint, I can also give photography instructions to amatuers. I also love astronomy and am having a 5 inch reflecting telescope. presently I am free on weekend but would love to devote more time to this and make my self available anytime for this.
N Bhagwat Pune, Maharashtra Weekend English, Marathi, Hindi
Hi, I'm an amature bird watcher looking for bird watching company to study birds in PCMC and Pune Area. I'm staying in Nigdi Pradhikaran area.
M Indranil Basu Pune, Maharashtra Weekend English, Hindi, Bengali, Punjabi
I am an ardent wildlife Photographer and mainly concentrate on birds. I have a passion in birding and study about them.
P Sacremento Pune, Maharashtra Anytime English
Love to birdwatching and taking pictures.
A Bhagat Thale, Maharashtra Anytime English, Hindi, Marathi
Doing birding in and around Mumbai for the last three years.

 
UN Dev Bhubaneswar/Pudamari, Orissa Anytime English, Sanskrit, Hindi, Oriya
I am 73 years of age. I have earned a Doctrate (D.Sc Digree) in Ornithology and spent my life in field ornithology. I have sanskritised the latin taxonomy of birds and compiled several books on birds.
S Naik Bhubaneswar, Orissa Anytime English, Oriya, Hindi, Bengali, Marath
I am an amateur Wildlife Photographer with special interest in Birds. I also write on the various Conservation Issues in Orissa.

 
R Rajagopalan Siliguri, Poschim Bongo Anytime English, Hindi, Nepalese(spoken only)
I am Information Security Consultant.

 
D Patel Pondicherry Anytime Tamil, Hindi, Gujarati, Bengali, French, English
We have quite a few dedicated group of birders here in Pondicherry. Some of us seniors have been at it for decades and we have since a few years involved children from a local school for regular birding as part of their nature projects. The two main areas of interest are the two nearby tanks (large water bodies)- Ousteri Lake and the Kaliveli Tank- the latter a natural wetland site attracting birds from beyond the Himalayas! The dry scrub forest around the Ousteri lake attracts a variety of common Indian birds and of course the water fowl is abundant particularly in the early months of the year. We are affiliated with a Malaysia based wetlands trust and we need to make annual bird count of several waterbodies around Pondicherry to gauge the state of migration year by year. As is happening all over the world-the natural environment around Pondicherry is fast deterioating in the name of developement and efforts are being made to make the government aware of the importance of preserving the natural resources. Nevertheless we are very fortunate to have so near us such a rich source of birding for the many enthusiasts of Pondicherry.
S Kumaravel Pondicherry Weekend English, Hindi, Tamil, Kannada, Telugu
A small coastal town famous for Sri Aurobindo Ashram and Auroville. However several waterbodies nearby provide for good birding Vedanthangal bird sacntuary is about a couple of hours drive away. I am an enthusiast but just started and a keen photographer.

 



s Cheema Mohali, Punjab Anytime English, Hindi, Punjabi
I am a birder and love bird photography. I am in between off and on job so you will have to pm me for availability for birding. Area:
Foothills of Himalayas

Area Birds:
a list of almost 300 birds. 60 + in any season anytime of year
Interests:
Nature: birdwatching, photography,
N Paul Singh Amritsar, Punjab Weekend English, Hindi, Punjabi
Bird watching is my passion. Living closer to the most popular bird-watching site, Harike Wetlands in India.
B Grewal Ludhiana, Punjab Anytime English, Hindi, Punjabi
Based in Ludhiana, about 70-80 kms from Harike and about the same from Sivaliks/Chandigarh. Would love to teem up for any local or northern Indian trips, too.
A Sharma Jaipur, Rajasthan Weekend English, Hindi
Many birding areas in nearby farms, lakes, forests, gardens. National parks wildlife sanctuaries two to three hours drive away.
S Yadav Jaipur, Rajasthan Anytime English, Hindi
I am an expert birdwatcher and you can see around one hundered species in a day in my area.
M Kulshreshtha Jaipur, Rajasthan Anytime English
The area where I live is surrounded by mountains but is semi arid where you can see Spotted tree Creeper. Sariska National Park is 2 hrs from here to see Painted sandgrouse,Indian Pitta, Long biled vulture,Crested serpent Eagle and many more interesting species. Keoladeo National Park is about 3 hrs from here which is Unesco's World Heritage Site in Natural Heritage categoury whwre in the whole year you can see more than 400 species of birds. I have worked for Save Bustard campaign as Field Programme coordinator in Desert National Park which is a proposed World Heritage site and am well versed with the area taking birders there to show large congregation of cranes at Kheechan and also to show Trumpeter Bullfinch, Desert Finchlark, White-browed Chat, Tawny Eagles, Bonelli's Eagle, Red-headed Vulture, Laggar Falcon etc. Besides these Green Munia, Great Indian Bustard, Lesser Florican, Houbara Bustard and other important birds like Black-winged White Tit, White-bellied Minivet can also be shown with a little effort and time available.
S Singhal Kota, Rajasthan Anytime English, Hindi
River Chambal flowing through our area hence very rich in wildlife.

 
AJ Mithra Chennai, Tamil Nadu Anytime English, Tamil, a little bit of Hindi
I work as a music teacher and especially take kids on birding tripe to different places in and around Chennai.
S Devanathan Chennai, Tamil Nadu Weekend English
Native of Vedanthangal, famous for Bird Sanctuary. Can accompany bird watchers and also arrange facilities such as accommodation, food during such visits. Since I was born and brought up in this area, I am through about Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary, the types of Birds coming each year etc. I am confident of taking care of the tourists to this spot and render necessary help to them such as accommodation, food etc., if requested by them. Vehicles can also be arranged by me, if requested by the tourists.
S Subramanian Chennai (Madras), Tamil Nadu Anytime English, Tamil, Malayalam
Interested in Birdwatching, Wildlife and Natural History. Resident of Chennai, South India. Familiar with birds, wildlife and natural history of South India.

 

  R. Venkatraman Madurai, Tamilnadu Anytime English, Tamil, Telugu, and Hindi
  I am a dentist so my days are usually busy. I bird a lot in Madurai along with a group of friends. We tend to walk around on Sundays on various locations.

Winter in India is from October to January so the migrants are plenty during those times.
Area:
Avaniyapuram, American College, Manjamalai, Alagar kovil

Area Birds:
Water birds, Winter migrants, Passerines, Indian peafowl, Birds of Prey

Interests:
Nature: birdwatching


 
R Gokul Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu Anytime English, Tamil, Telugu
Excellent near by locations, for birding. Around 200+ birds have been spotted by me personally during my walks.
R Ajai Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu Weekend Tamil, English
Project Manager by profession. Wild life enthusiast and photographer by hobby. Coimbatore is a moderate city on border of Western Ghats. Also interestingly lot of open cultivated fields and wetlands are around Coimbatore and we have fun filled watching winged visitors duing the winter/spring/summer season. If you like to visit some of the restricted forest please let me know earlier, so that I can try getting permission for the same.

 
K Dasgupta Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh Weekend English, Indian languages
I am a passionate Birdwatcher since last 7 years and I have many Bird/nature sanctuaries near to my residence. I am familiar with Birds of Northeren India and Himalayan Birds. It would be a great experience helping anyone to know about Birds in my region.

Uttrakhand
S Hassan Dehradun, Uttrakhand Anytime Hindi, Urdu, English
Dehradun is a capital city of Uttrakhand state in India. It is situated in the vally of Himalayas and surrounded with many mountains from all sides. It has many wetlands and lakes around its territory. Assan Barrage is a heaven for Migratory Birds in winter. It is 40 Km from Dehradun. I use to spend my time there with Birdingpals from around the world. My services are Free with Free Indian Dinner at my home in Dehradun for all Birdingpals who come from other countries... Guests are Gods for us... Sarfaraz Hassan (Cell: +919411111486)



Dr Suyal Ramnagar, Uttrakhand Anytime Hindi, English

Hi
I am naturalist Ramesh Suyal from Corbett national park, India.

I will love to show you Corbett and area surrounding Corbett and lots of "up hill" Himalyan birds.

I know almost 500 birds so I will happy to show you good birds.

So please feel free and write me.
Lots thanks.
Area:
Corbett national park and surrounding, Kosi river, Bhonkhal, Kumeria, Sitabani, Pangot , Nainital and Binsar sanctuaries

Area Birds:
Ibis bill, great horn bill, brown dipper, little pied flycatcher, indian pitta,black hooded pitta, great slaty woodpecker, wallcreeper, forktail little and spotted.
Interests:
Nature: birding, safari

S Malik Roorkee Haridwar, Uttrakhand Anytime English, Hindi, Urdu, Arabian
I live in the foothill city of Uttrakhand a 90% hilly state in the Northren India. I have been a bird watcher from my childhood. I have been to England, Thailand and Nepal. I understand the voice of many birds. Currently I have been working as a Researcher for British High Commission project on " Effect of Global warming on the behaviour of Migratory Birds". I am also working as Manager for a British Handicrafts Import company www.buycarvings.com my Employer Mr. Patrick Orme Lynch inspired me to initiate some conservational strategies on Migratory Birds.
R Dhillon Union Territory, Chandigarh Anytime English, Hindi, Panjabi
I have been living in Chandigarh since 1987. Chandigarh is a modern well planned city of India. It is ideal for birding as we have diverse habitats-its proximity to the lower Himalayas brings in attitudinal migrants while the areas around the lake form wetlands hence providing waterfowl migrants rich food resources. agricultural belt ,grasslands,forests,parks and gardens,wetlands and hills all add up to a list of 385 species. Besides birding I am a keen golfer and trekker and love to travel. On every trip I try to fit in at least one morning for birding. You I am available for birding anytime and am prompt to reply to queries unless I am out of the country. Chandigarh is 3 hours from New Delhi which is the capital city of India.it is at the foot of the Himalayas. Shimla a famous hillstation is 3 hours from Chandigarh by road I have my own car so transport for birding is not a problem. I am a keen birder and like to take record shots with my canon camera of my bird sightings.i am also a keen trekker and golfer. It is possible to get in a round of golf along with birding since we have three golf courses in Chandigarh.

 


Professional Guides

If you contact a professional Birdingpal guide you must be prepared to pay a fee for guiding services.

Name Company Area Available Language

 

  Sunil Kumar Uttrakhnad Tourism of India Nainital, Uttrakhnad Anytime English & Hindi
 

My name is Sunil Kumar and I started bird guiding in 2001. I was born in Nainital and have lived here all of my life. Consequently, I have extensive knowledge of the region. I specialise in tailor-made itineraries to suit the independent traveller.


Contact Mob 91=9411196837.


Area:
The State of Uttarakhand, North of Delhi, is deservedly renowned for its natural beauty the friendliness of the local hill people and the diversity of the flora & fauna. Uttarakhand is a paradise avifauna and a popular destination for birders from all over the world.

Indeed almost half the species present in India can be seen in this region. It is also one of the best place in the world for observing birds of prey. Many of these birds are migratory. Because of this unique location the bird population is highly throughout the year, with winter visitors, summer visitors, attitudinal migrates, passes migrates and local migrates.

Around 250 bird species have been recorded in this area, and one can see a variety of Himalayan species like Himalayan Vulture, Blue-winged Minla, Spotted and Slaty-backed Forktails, Blue Whistling Thrush, Rufous-bellied and Himalayan Woodpeckers, Rufous-bellied Niltava, Kalij Pheasant, and a variety of other species.


HOTSPOTS

Corbett NP:
Corbett was named in the honor of Jim Corbett, legendary hunter-turned- conservationist, best known for hunting man-eating tigers and leopards in the Kumaon and lower Garhwal in the 1920s. Away from the urban concrete jungles, within easy driving distance of Delhi (7 hrs), Corbett is a popular retreat for wildlife and nature enthusiasts. It provides a great opportunity for viewing wildlife, especially the tiger in its natural habitat. The main wildlife animals found in the Corbett National Park include the Tiger, Elephant, Chital, Sambar, Nilgai, Gharial, King Cobra, Muntjac, Wild Boar, Hedgehog, Common Musk Shrew, Flying Fox, Indian Pangolin and nearly 600 species of birds.

Pangot:
Pangot and Sat Tal are small Himalayan villages, just 15 km from the hill station of Nainital in the state of Uttarakhand. These Kumaoni villages, and the forested areas around them, offer spectacular views, lovely nature trails, and great birding opportunities. The road passes through mixed forests of thick oak, pine and rhododendron. Perennial creeks and streams crisscross the area, adding to its beauty. Around 250 bird species have been recorded in this area, and one can see a variety of Himalayan species like Himalayan Vulture, Blue-winged Minla, Spotted and Slaty-backed Forktails, Blue Whistling Thrush, Rufous-bellied and Himalayan Woodpeckers, Rufous-bellied Niltava, Kalij Pheasant, and a variety of other species. One can see Cheer, Koklass and Khalij, Crested Serpent-eagle, Mountain Hawk-eagle, Woodpeckers such as Brown-fronted, Scaly-bellied and Himalayan, Thrushes such as Dark- throated, Mistle etc. Striated Prinia can be seen in the terraced fields. Warblers such as Tickell's Leaf-warbler, Greenish, Golden-spectacled, Grey-hooded. Flycatchers such as Asian Brown, Rusty Tailed, Ultramarine, Verditer, Tickell's Blue, Rufous-bellied Niltava etc.

Sat Tal:
The habitat offers species such as: White-crested Laughing Thrush, Rufous-gorgeted Flycatcher, Red-billed Leothrix, Siberian, Rubythroat, Rock Bunting etc. This scattered and deliberately undeveloped area is one of the most pleasant destinations. Look for Rufous-chinned & White Crested Laughing Thrush, Rufous-breasted Accentor, Greater Yellow-naped Flameback, Speckled Piculet, Golden Bush Robin etc.

Other Hotspots— Chopta, Manila & Munsyari


Area Birds:
Himalayan Vulture, Blue-winged Minla, Spotted and Slaty-backed Forktails, Blue Whistling Thrush, Rufous-bellied and Himalayan Woodpeckers, Rufous-bellied Niltava, Kalij Pheasant, and a variety of other species. One can see Cheer, Koklass and Khalij, Crested Serpent-eagle, Mountain Hawk-eagle, Woodpeckers such as Brown-fronted, Scaly-bellied and Himalayan, Thrushes such as Dark- throated, Mistle etc. Striated Prinia can be seen in the terraced fields. Warblers such as Tickell's Leaf-warbler, Greenish, Golden-spectacled, Grey-hooded. Flycatchers such as Asian Brown, Rusty Tailed, Ultramarine, Verditer, Tickell's Blue, Rufous-bellied Niltava, White-crested Laughing Thrush, Rufous-gorgeted Flycatcher, Red-billed Leothrix, Siberian, Rubythroat, Rock Bunting
Kudos:




Sunil guided us for 11 days in October 2016 in Jim Corbett NP, Pangot and Sat Tal. His price was less than half of what I was quoted by three of 'the big boys'.

Not only is Sunil dedicated to delivering what his client expects by being an excellent birder, facilitator and organiser, but he is also a friendly and respectful travelling companion and a guide to the cultural aspects of the area.

Sunil, one day we will take you up on a summer trip up into the higher reaches of the Himalayas.
D. and P. Stedman (Spain) 2016




23rd November to 7th December -2016

A perfectly organised tour in Uttarakhand nice places to stay,superb landscapes excellent walks and most important plenty of birds and a competent ,very organised and very nice guide is the person of Sunil Kumar.

What else might I have desired for my third holidays in North India?



Thank you Sunil, really a very big thank you to you for everything.
Mr. F. Raes. Belgium.


.

26th Feb. to 5th March 2016
I was birding with Sunil in Sattal, Pangot and Corbett.Great time with lots of birds.Sunil is an excellent bird guide and a good refreshing company.He worked hard to find the Koklass Pheasant and we climbed down the mountain (and up again...)to find the Cheer Pheasant. Both target birds found! Scaly-breasted and Nepal Wren Babbler,Sunil knows the stake-out.

I can recommend him to every hardcore birder.



Thanks very much.I enjoyed the trip.
Mr. J. Hanoldt, Hambarg, Germany



Date-12 Feb.-19 Feb. 2016
Sunil is a great guy and very friendly. He is knowledgeable about birds and many other things, I enjoyed talking to him about politics.




I highly recommend Sunil as a guide.
Thanks for a great trip.
From all. P. Middletion, S. Wignell, C. Dixon and N. Addey. (Yorkshire Birders.)




Date-28 Jan.-5 Feb.-2016
My experience of Sunil.

He responded promptly in my communications by email. He was helpful and gave excellent advice on planning my birding trip. Upon meeting Sunil. I found him to be a most pleasant, honest, lovely carving person who showed real concern for nature and the environment. I completely enjoyed my tour with Sunil.

He is an easy person to be with and I liked his personality and his humour. There is no doubt that Sunil has a vast amount of bird watching Knowledge and experience and a very sharp eye's for spotting and recognising the birds which constantly amazed me. Sunil is good at recognising bird calls and often is announce of the presents of a bird before it is seen.

In my many years as a bird watcher I have met many bird guides and people who claim to be bird guide.I know a genuine bird watcher and bird lover and Sunil is definitely one, and one of the best,if not the best I have met.

I do not hesitate recommending .Sunil as a bird guide for anyone who needs one. If I return to North India,my first choice for a guide would be Sunil. In total we saw over 180 birds at a time when condition were not the best which is out of the control of the bird guide.




I have enjoyed my time with you Sunil and wish you were guiding me on the rest of my trip.You are a very good man.I hope we meet again soon.

Sunil my friend, Best wishes.

G. Buckett.North Wales (U.K)



Date-04 Jan-13 Jan-2016
Thank you Sunil for a really nice and good trip! Sunil is a very good guide.He works hard to find new birds and has a good eye.


You are also a good companion. I trust Sunil 100%.

Hope to see you again.
B. Kjellemyr (Norway.)




Date 19 April to 22 April, 2015
We are a pair of French mad birdwatchers used to travel by ourselves around the world to watch birds in Asia, Africa, and we few turn to guides. In our North-West India journey since mid-april 2015, we came to Pangot and Nainital area to watch thrushes, pheasants, and some local specialities as Rufous-chinned Laughingthrush.

We had few time to spend, not at usual time, in this place known in winter for thrushes, so we turned to Sunil Kumar, due to great testimonials on Birding Pals, and we were not disappointed. Sunil knows very well his area and birds. He learns quickly what you expect. He knows what photography requires. On the ground he's quiet and efficient.

We really enjoyed our time with him. He made good briefings of our driver, and optimized for bird-watching driving in all montane forest roads. We'll not forget him, as we discovered with him a Pied Thrush in a place unexpected for this wonderful bird. And Sunil is very friendly, and our young boy, 8y-old, who travelled with us but not specially interested in birds, nor English speaking, keep a pleasant recollection of Sunil as a wonderful friend.



Our only disappointment is to have visited Corbett without him, due to a disagreement with the agency and the hotel, and we are sorry for. We not often recommend a guide, but we recommend Sunil !
M. & T. Quelennec
France.




12 February 2015.
We have enjoyed 9 days birding with Sunil, covering Corbett, Pangot, Sat-tal area. We have seen all our target birds for this area including Ibisbill, Nepal Wren Babbler (including finding a new site near Bhimtal) Himalayan Ruby throat, Cheer Pheasant (3 first day 6 2nd day)Long-billed, Tickell's, Plain-backed, Orange-headed Thrushes, White-collared and Grey-winged Blackbird .Wallcreeper, Black Eagle, Lammergeier, Hill Partridge, Upland Pipit, Rufous Alpine and Altai Accentors and Tawny Fish Owl.



Sunil is Knowledgable and keen about birds, he is excellent at picking up moment and can hear a leaf rustle at 30 paces .An all round great guy and good company.

We would all recommend Sunil to guide any birder who visits the Kumaon area.
P. Thomason-Tropical,
N. Hunt-Err Neill,
P. Allan-Playful,
M. Stocker-Pretty boy,
J. Watt.

MARASHSIDES FINEST (U.K)




November-23 to26 , 2014
We very much enjoyed four days of birding in the Nainital area sat-tal, Snow-view chaffi, Ramgarh etc. With our knowledgable, patient and kind guide Mr. Sunil Kumar.

He planned a very organised trip, and all occured in timely manner .He patently made sure we had an opportunity to see the bird and watch their behaviour as time allowed, and we took time to photograph as well.

Sunil was gracious to help with transport arrangement for our onward destinations in India as well with train car and driver.





We highly recommend Sunil as a birding Guide, for his Knowledge of the birds, their calls, habitats and love to share with others.

We have been blessed to have Sunil as a Guide and to call him a friend.
B. & G. Gerling (U.S.A)






I had visited Nainital for bird photography from 16th March to 20th March. I must say, I was fortunate to have Sunil with me. Sunil knows his birds, and also their calls. His identification is near instant. He knows all the hot-spots. Most importantly however, especially from a bird photographer's point of view, is his quality of extreme patience. There were times where I got rooted to a spot for hours on end to get that right shot, and Sunil just sat through it patiently and cheerfully. I would recommend his services to everyone, who intends to go birding around Nainital.
Parag Joshi. Baroda, Gujarat, India.

We had a very good day's bird spotting with Sunil, in spite of the rain. Sunil knows where all the good birds are and eyes like a hawk.

A. Anderson and B. Blewitt, AA Birding and Travel (Australia)

We spent an excellent morning bird watching around Snow View and Fairlight with Sunil. He immediately started finding interesting birds and took us on a wild path through the forest. He was very knowledgeable, not only about birds, but also pointed out all the peaks. Among the birds he showed us were, Black Eagle, Mountain Hawk Eagle, Brown-headed Woodpecker, Greater Yellownape, Rufous Sibia, Bar-tailed Tree Creeper, Streaked Laughing Thrush, Striated Laughing Thrush, Rufous-crowned Laughing Thrush, White-throated Laughing Thrush, Nepal House Martin, Long-tailed Minwet (to name but a few).
James Champion (My father was a conservator of forests in Nainital in 1930-40). Personally I want to thank you for a wonderful birding experience, a lovely sunrise over the Himalayas and very interesting talks on the trails. Nigel Champion, UK.

We came to Nainital from far away, not to honeymoon but to birdwatch. Had we not met Sunil by accident, we may not have achieved the purpose of our week long visit. Sunil was a great help in getting us to the few places where the hard to locate birds can be found. Sunil can identify these birds by their vocalisations before he sees them. We consider Sunil an expert birding guide and now also a friend. India can and should be proud of such a fine young man. Thank you Sunil, thank you India for your beautiful birds.
Birdingpals Alicia and Dieter Kamm, Sierra Vista, Arizona

October-2011 - Birding with Sunil and Pangot. After couple of hours with Sunil, it becomes quite obvious, that he is into birding passionately. This is one guy who is into birding, learning, reading, nature whether there is a client or not. He exists for birds! He can tell avian friends by their call & will ID the bird in one glance from a moving car. Polite & modest, Sunil is a pleasure to have around. He is an unobtrusive discreet guide, who works with typical dignity & poise of the mountain people. A few more like him and my country's birds would in good hands. God Bless. Rajesh & Ritu (India).
8.12.11 - Had a brilliant day looking for Pheasants and other birds. Sunil knows the area very well and knows the birds call. He got quite a few new birds, that I would not have found without him. I would recommend him to any birdes and bird tour company, who are looking for a guide in this area. Sunil is easy to get along with and speaks better English than me. Rab Shand, Ornithologest, Scotland.
7.2.12 - Two special days, Special bird's, Cheer Pheasant, Koklass and Hill Partridge. I must add that we had 2 very good days of birds. Sunil knows the trails where you can find some of the 'Specials'. He willalso organize a car, so Nainital area will be stress free. Sunil is easy going and speaks good English and local language making easy to travel around. If you come around plesae take him to guide you. Alberto Garcia Rlos, Ibiza, Spain. Euggni capella, Barcelona,CAT.
February 1-10, 2013

I found Sunil Kumar on the Birdingpal Guides page and asked him if he could arrange a private 10-day trip for me through the Ramnagar-Pangot-Nainital area, which he readily agreed to, and we soon had dates, itinerary and cost worked out via email—which we followed without a hitch. Sunil is a very reliable organizer as well as an excellent birder and an extremely resourceful, hardworking advisor. Everything happened in its time and how it was supposed to, from my being picked up at my Delhi hotel to my return there ten days later.

I was immediately impressed at his generous personality and how personally he took responsibility for anticipating my needs and desires, right down to our tea stops, packed lunches, and hot water supplies, and for providing a maximal birding experience every moment. I am a rather indefatigable hiker, used to long days in the field, but Sunil led our expedition right to the end and was never ready to give up until I did. He is an outstanding birder; he doesn't carry a field guide, but he can tell you the page that the bird is on in the one you're carrying.

I soon discovered that Sunil has a broader knowledge of the natural and historical India around him than just the birds, as he also plans trips for trekkers and other sightseers as well as birders, and he was a wealth of information on many things we saw in passing.

Frankly, Sunil has become a friend whose pleasant companionship I already miss, and I think you will feel the same.

Charles Harper, Yokohama, Japan



Read my Kudos in .docx document

Comments from my Conmment Book (.pdf)


Sarwandeep Singh Indian Birding New Delhi, Delhi Anytime. Kindly contact in advance to avoid disappointment English, Hindi
I have been into full-time birding, bird Photography and guiding for the past ten years. I take small groups to most of the important birding areas in India. I am also the author of two popular books on Birding in India and Nepal. Bird with me for specific areas or species. You will find birding with me most satisfying experience, especially in Sattal & Chopta in Uttarakhand, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Kerala, Tamilnadu and Karnataka. Area:
Sattal & Chopta in Uttarakhand, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Kerala, Tamilnadu and Karnataka. Costa Rica, Malaysia, Thailand

Area Birds:
Interests:
Nature: birdwatching, twitching, photography, walking, hiking, climbing, train, bus, car, hitchhiking, biking, Visit: tourist site, museum, restaurant, club, vineyard, ski run/trail, monument, arboretum, architecture appreciation, shop, antique, fashion, tech, casino


Ankit Kaushal New Delhi & Pong Lake, Himachal , Himachal Pradesh Anytime English


Being native from the place we can take you to the beautiful and rare sites for bird watching. Number of bird watching sites we have available here and we can explore one in each day (including wetlands & islands).

Dhameta is a small but beautiful village and gradually becoming a favourite tourist destination for travellers, who are looking to experience the hidden beauty of the Himalayas. The most beautiful fact about this place is that it is surrounded by clear blue waters of Pong Lake. The main attraction of Dhameta is Pong Lake Bird sanctuary.

It is the famous reservoir that houses Pong Lake and attracts tourists for Bird Watching and Fishing. 1,44,000 migratory birds were recorded at Pong Dam in 2010. Further 421 species of birds, 18 species of snakes (namely Cobra, Python and Common Monitor), 90 species of Butterflies, 24 species of Mammals and 27 species of fishes have been recorded in Pong Lake wildlife Sanctuary. Pong Lake wildlife Sanctuary is definitely a Birding Paradise.

This is the first major wetland which potentially offers a transitory wintering ground for the migratory birds such as Bar Headed Geese, Ruddy shell duck, Pintails, Coots, Pochards, Gulls, Red Necked Grebes, Cormorants, Mallards etc. coming from the trans Himalayan zone in the winter season when the wetlands in the Europe and North and central Asia become frozen due to onset of winters and there is a great scarcity of food for these birds.

Thus, the flocks of migratory birds fly miles together to Pong Lake to spend winter in more congenial climatic conditions from October to March every year.

You can stay in a homestay or lodge with the beautiful view of the Wetland and Himalayas. Also with us there is option to stay in the Island.


Area:
Pong Dam Wetland, Pong Lake Bird Sanctuary, Kuthera Island, Rancer Island


PONG DAM WETLAND: This is the first major wetland which potentially offers a transitory wintering ground for the migratory birds such as Bar Headed Geese, Ruddy shell duck, Pintails, Coots, Pochards, Gulls, Red Necked Grebes, Cormorants, Mallards etc. coming from the trans Himalayan zone in the winter season when the wetlands in the Europe and North and central Asia become frozen due to onset of winters and there is a great scarcity of food for these birds.

Thus, the flocks of migratory birds fly miles together to Pong Lake to spend winter in more congenial climatic conditions from October to March every year. These birds breed in their native land during succeeding summers. The Pong reservoir has immense untapped potential for various activities such as bird watching, camping sites, water sports, trekking trails, thick forests, religious places, heritage villages and sites, conservation of rare and endangered species and mainly the tourism.

This wetland possesses all the merits, which the children, students, authors, poets, saints, environmentalists, birdwatchers, anglers, tourists, adventurists and sportsmen require.

This lake alone can be the best Birding Paradise. Bird watchers can go to Kuthera Island & Rancer Island for bird watching option to spend a night there.


Area Birds:
jangle fowls, peafowl, Grey partridges, Black Partridges, Bar headed geese, Pintails, common pochards, coots, Grebes, Cormorants, Herons, Storks, Ruddy shell duck, common Teal, Shovellers, Moorhen, Stints, Lapwing, Plovers, Shank, Snipe, Gull, Terns, Kites, Mallards, Gadwall, Egrets, Marsh Harriers, River lapwing, Pied Kingfisher, Painted stork, Oriental magpie robin, Little egret (Egretta garzetta), Northern pintail, Little Ringed Plover, Greylag Goose, Grey Heron, Grey Bushchat, Great cormorant, Common Teal, Bluethroat, Black Winged Stilt, Black headed Gull, Black kite, Brahmini starling, Bank Myna, Wooly necked stork, Long tailed shrike, Eurasian spoonbill


My website: DHAMETA TOURISM



Interests:
Bird watching, Angling, Photography, Wildlife, Camping, Cycling, Adventure, History, Culture, Trekking, Community welfare etc.

B Kamat Cortalim, Goa Anytime English, Hindi
I have been conducting boat cruises since 1999 in the Cumbharjua Canal from October to April. Birds we see are six different kingfishers including the Collared Kingfisher, Terek Sandpiper, Eastern Curlew among the 80 odd species which also include winter visitors like Lesser Adjutant, Wooly-necked, Open-billed and Painted Stork, Osprey, White-bellied Sea-eagle, Greater and Lesser Spoted Eagle to name a few. Mostly I take birders from Europe but hardly any Indian.
A Sood Kullu, Himachal Pradesh Anytime English, Hindi, Pahari, some German
Great Himalayan National Park - GHNP. The World Conservation Monitoring Center has identified GHNP as one of the five Centres of Plant Diversity and Endemism in India. Important bird groups found in the Park include: Pheasants (or Galliforms) an important group of large, spectacular birds. GHNP is one of only two National Parks in the world with a population of the endangered Western Tragopan (also found in Machiara National Park, Pakistan). Another endangered pheasant, the Cheer Pheasant is present on the steep, south-facing grassy slopes. Monal and Koklas are in abundant in the temperate forest zone while Kaleej occurs in small numbers below 2,000m. Snow Partridge, Hill Partridge and Himalayan Snowcock also occur.
I am a lecturer of Ecotourism in the Govt. Degree College at Kullu teaching tourism to undergraduates. I became a naturalist and guide after receiving a Bachelors Degree in Commerce and a Masters Degree in Tourism from Himachal University. I also holds a Certificate in Environmental Tourism from IGNOU and will soon begin working towards my PhD in eco-tourism. I have worked as an interpretive naturalist for the Great Himalayan National Park and have been involved in community and environmental activism in the Western Himalayas from 1996 to the present.
B Pattada Bangalore, Karnataka Anytime English, Hindi
I recently completed a short business trip from the US to Bangalore, and wanted to have day's birding in the area. Bopanna was the perfect match for my needs, offering short and longer guided outings that would be impossible to organize independently. Pre-trip contact and organization was smooth and informative, and arrangements easy to set up and schedule. I was picked up on-time by my guide for the day, Bopanna, whose approach, knowledge, and companionship made for a superb day in the Nandi Hills and surrounding area. We spent a full day birding and managed to see over 100 species including most of the expected birds and a few endemics. The day exceeded my expectations in every way, a great experience with wonderful birds and scenery, and Bopanna's friendly approach ensuring that it was comfortable and enjoyable.
I can highly recommend Bopanna, and I'm looking forward to being able to take a longer birding trip in the near future.
Simon Lane, Chatham, NJ, USA. simon_c_lane(AT)hotmail.com
J Chadha Rupnagar, Punjab Anytime English, Hindi, Punjabi
I am a science graduate with zoology and Botany as main subjects with master degree in Punjabi language that is my mother tongue. I am master degree in Journalism also. I am also a tourist guide with specialization in birdwatching of my area which is situated on the foothills of Shiwalik range of lower Himalaya.Doing also photojournalism.Many tourists companies from Delhi engage me as tourist guide and for birding. I am well versed with every species of my area whether local or migratory visiting Ropar Interntional Wetland from Siberia and other parts. We have two important wetlands and other area of birds habitat like forests,bushes and mountains. I can speak good English.Charges Rs.2500/-per day.Jas Preet Singh Chadha Ropar Punjab India 02-09-2010.
R Chaudhary Bharatpur, Rajasthan Anytime English, French
I am approved naturalist in Keoladeo NationalPark, Bharatpur and tour escort too. District: Bharatpur, Location: East of Rajasthan, Area: 29 sq kms approximately, Park Attractions: Birdlife Keoladeo is both a Ramsar and World Heritage site. This reserve is one of the major wintering areas for large numbers of aquatic birds from Afghanistan, Turkmenistan, China and Siberia. Some 364 species of birds, including the rare Siberian crane, have been recorded in the park. Keoladeo is famous as one of Asias finest birding areas. It is also an excellent place to watch mammals like Golden Jackal, Striped Hyaena, Fishing Cat, Jungle Cat, Nilgai, Sambar and wild Boar plus Indian rock python.
P Lobo Kalimpong, West Bengal Anytime English, Hindi
Firstly a big thank you for your excellent logistics and guiding in NE India. Everyone has genuinely gone away with very positive feelings about the trip and most of us are looking forward to the opportunity to return. Chris Bradshaw, United Kingdom, 2006 - chris(AT)northkentbirding.freeserve.co.uk
First of all, we thank you so much for your kind cooperation during our birding shooting in North Bengal. It was really so nice of you that you have spared your precious time for us.. It was also a great experience for all of us. We are really impressed to know how you distinguish the sound of different birds, and your large knowledge about wild lives...! Toko Miyasato, Japan, 2007 - toko-m(AT)gf6.so-net.ne.jp
Thanks for organizing a great trip again. I thought Nagaland was a fantastic place with good habitat that would generate further exploration. Thanks also for the generous hospitality in your home, I liked Kalimpong very much. Nick Senior, United Kingdom, 2007

 

Local Information
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Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia India
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Okhla Barrage Bird Sanctuary, Delhi Sites
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Birds of India Sites
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Indianbirds.in Bird journal
Birding Hotspots around the world Sites