Tucked away in the Haridwar district of Uttarakhand, Jhilmil Jheel Conservation Reserve is a freshwater wetland ecosystem and a haven for birdwatchers and wildlife lovers. Declared as Uttarakhand’s first Conservation Reserve in 2005, it spans nearly 400 hectares, including grasslands, marshes, and forest patches along the Ganga River floodplains.
The reserve is home to a variety of resident and migratory birds, plus endangered species like the swamp deer (barasingha), making it a unique blend of birding and wildlife tourism.
Location & Accessibility
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Location: Jhilmil Jheel, Haridwar District, Uttarakhand
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Nearest City: Haridwar (~20 km)
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Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (~50 km)
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Nearest Railway Station: Haridwar Junction (~20 km)
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By Road: Accessible by road from Haridwar, Rishikesh, and Dehradun
Carry binoculars and a telephoto camera lens — the wetlands are sprawling, and sightings are best from a distance.
Birds & Wildlife at Jhilmil Jheel
Bird Species
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Bar-headed Goose
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Ruddy Shelduck
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Common Teal
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Northern Pintail
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Great Crested Grebe
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Painted Stork
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Black-necked Stork
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Raptors like Marsh Harriers and Ospreys
Mammals
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Swamp Deer (Barasingha – flagship species)
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Spotted Deer
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Wild Boar
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Jackal
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Otters
It’s the only place in Uttarakhand where swamp deer are found in the wild.
Timings & Entry Fee
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Timings: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM
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Entry Fee: ~₹50–₹100 per person (extra for vehicles, guides, cameras)
Best Time to Visit
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November – March: Migratory bird season; wetlands full of life.
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October & April: Pleasant for spotting both birds and mammals.
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Avoid Monsoon (July – September): Flooding and inaccessibility.
Things to Do
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Birdwatching – Spot migratory geese, ducks, and storks.
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Wildlife Safari – Jeep safaris available for exploring swamp deer zones.
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Photography – Capture scenic wetlands, grasslands, and bird flocks.
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Nature Walks – Explore trails along Ganga floodplains.
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Eco-tourism – Learn about swamp deer conservation.
Nearby Attractions
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Haridwar (20 km): Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri.
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Rajaji National Park (30 km): Famous for elephants and leopards.
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Rishikesh (40 km): Yoga, rafting, and adventure tourism hub.
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Chilla Range (25 km): Wildlife safari area within Rajaji Tiger Reserve.
Travel Tips
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Hire local forest guides for better birding and wildlife spotting.
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Carry food, water, and insect repellent. Facilities are minimal.
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Early morning safaris are best for sightings.
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Avoid plastic — the reserve is an eco-sensitive zone.
Dress in earthy colors to blend with the natural surroundings.
Travel Quick Facts
| Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Haridwar District, Uttarakhand |
| Nearest City | Haridwar (20 km) |
| Nearest Airport | Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (50 km) |
| Nearest Railway Station | Haridwar Junction (20 km) |
| Timings | 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Entry Fee | ₹50–₹100 approx |
| Best Time to Visit | November – March |
| Famous Birds | Bar-headed Geese, Painted Storks, Ospreys |
| Flagship Species | Swamp Deer (Barasingha) |
| Nearby Attractions | Haridwar, Rajaji National Park, Rishikesh |
Visit also Asan Barrage Bird Sanctuary
FAQ
Q1: Where is Jhilmil Jheel Conservation Reserve located?
A1: It is located in the Haridwar district of Uttarakhand, about 20 km from Haridwar city.
Q2: Why is Jhilmil Jheel famous?
A2: It is famous for its wetland bird diversity and being the only habitat of swamp deer in Uttarakhand.
Q3: What is the best time to visit Jhilmil Jheel?
A3: The best time is November to March, during the migratory bird season.
Q4: How can I reach Jhilmil Jheel Conservation Reserve?
A4: The nearest railway station is Haridwar (20 km), and the nearest airport is Dehradun (50 km). Roads connect it from Haridwar and Rishikesh.
Q5: Is safari available at Jhilmil Jheel?
A5: Yes, jeep safaris are available to explore swamp deer zones and wetlands.
Q6: What are the entry fees for Jhilmil Jheel?
A6: Entry is about ₹50–₹100 per person, with extra charges for vehicles, guides, and cameras.
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