Udhuwa Lake Bird Sanctuary – Jharkhand’s Wetland Wonderland

Tucked away in the Sahebganj district of Jharkhand, Udhuwa Lake Bird Sanctuary is the only notified bird sanctuary in the state. Spread across 5.65 sq. km, it comprises two interconnected lakes Pataura and Berhale  surrounded by lush wetlands that attract hundreds of resident and migratory birds.

Recognized as a protected sanctuary since 1991, Udhuwa is part of the Ganges floodplain ecosystem and serves as an important stopover for birds migrating along the Central Asian Flyway. From storks and cormorants to flocks of migratory ducks, it’s a paradise for bird lovers and eco-travelers. 

Location & Accessibility

• Location: Sahebganj District, Jharkhand

• Nearest Town: Rajmahal (~12 km)

• Nearest City: Sahebganj (~25 km)

• Nearest Airport: Bagdogra Airport (~220 km), Patna Airport (~240 km)

• Nearest Railway Station: Rajmahal Railway Station (~12 km)

• By Road: Well connected from Rajmahal, Bhagalpur, and Sahibganj

Travel Tip: Pair your visit with Rajmahal hills and Ganga riverfront for a scenic eco-tour.

Birds at Udhuwa

Udhuwa’s wetlands support 80+ species of birds, including residents and winter migrants:

• Openbill Stork,Painted Stork,Little Cormorant

• Darter,Egret species,Northern Pintail,Gadwall

• Shoveler,Red-crested Pochard,Common Teal

Large flocks of migratory ducks make the lake look like a moving carpet in winter.

Timings & Entry Fee

• Timings: 6:00 AM – 5:00 PM

• Entry Fee: Minimal (₹20–₹30 approx, varies locally)

Best Time to Visit

• November – March: Best birdwatching season with winter migrants.

• Avoid Monsoon (July – September): Heavy rains often flood the area.

Things to Do

1. Birdwatching – Spot migratory storks, ducks, and pelicans.

2. Boating – Limited boating options for lake exploration.

3. Wildlife Photography – Capture wetland habitats and flocks in flight.

4. Nature Walks – Explore lakeside vegetation and wetland flora.

5. Eco-tourism – Learn about Jharkhand’s only bird sanctuary.

Nearby Attractions

• Rajmahal Hills (12 km): Scenic hills with fossils and history.

• Teliagarhi Fort (25 km): Ancient historical fort.

• Sahibganj Ganga Ghats (25 km): Pilgrimage and riverfront.

• Bhagalpur (60 km): Known for Vikramshila Gangetic Dolphin Sanctuary.

Travel Tips

• Best to visit early morning or evening for bird sightings.

• Carry binoculars, cameras, and field guides.

• Facilities are basic — bring food and water.

• Respect wetland ecosystems; avoid littering.

• Dress comfortably with sun protection in winter months. 

Travel Quick Facts

Fact	Details
Location	Sahebganj District, Jharkhand
Nearest Town	Rajmahal (12 km)
Nearest City	Sahebganj (25 km)
Nearest Airport	Bagdogra (220 km), Patna (240 km)
Nearest Railway Station	Rajmahal (12 km)
Timings	6:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Entry Fee	₹20–₹30 approx
Best Time to Visit	November – March
Famous Birds	Painted Stork, Cormorants, Northern Pintails, Gadwall
Nearby Attractions	Rajmahal Hills, Teliagarhi Fort, Sahibganj, Bhagalpur

FAQ

Q1: Where is Udhuwa Lake Bird Sanctuary located?
A1: It is located in Sahebganj district, Jharkhand, near Rajmahal.

Q2: Why is Udhuwa Bird Sanctuary famous?
A2: It is Jharkhand’s only notified bird sanctuary, famous for migratory ducks and storks.

Q3: What is the best time to visit Udhuwa Lake Bird Sanctuary?
A3: The best time is November to March, during the migratory bird season.

Q4: How do I reach Udhuwa Bird Sanctuary?
A4: The nearest railway station is Rajmahal (12 km), and the nearest airports are Bagdogra and Patna.

Q5: Is there an entry fee?
A5: Yes, a nominal entry fee (₹20–₹30 approx) is charged locally.

Q6: Can tourists do boating at Udhuwa?
A6: Limited boating facilities are available for birdwatchers.

Visit to know more on Karam Festival–2025