Located in the Braj region of Rajasthan, Bharatpur is a historic city famous for the Keoladeo National Park (Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary), a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Bharatpur Birding Tour covers a royal hunting ground for the Maharajas of Bharatpur, today it is a birdwatcher’s paradise, home to over 370 species of birds, including migratory species from Siberia, China, and Europe.
Beyond its famous bird sanctuary, Bharatpur is also rich in Rajput and Mughal history, with grand forts, temples, and palaces. Whether you’re a nature lover, history enthusiast, or photographer, Bharatpur offers a perfect blend of wildlife and cultural experiences.
This Bharatpur Travel Guide covers everything you need to plan your trip, including how to reach, the best time to visit, birdwatching details, must-visit places, accommodations, distances, local cuisines, and travel routes from Delhi and Jaipur.
How To Reach Bharatpur?
Bharatpur is well-connected to Delhi, Jaipur, Agra, and other major cities via road, rail, and air.
By Road
The road journey to Bharatpur is smooth and scenic, passing through villages, agricultural fields, and historical towns.
- From Delhi (182 km): A 3.5-hour drive via Yamuna Expressway → Mathura → Bharatpur.
- From Jaipur (185 km): A 4-hour drive via NH 21 through Dausa → Mahwa → Bharatpur.
- From Agra (55 km): A 1-hour drive via Fatehpur Sikri → Bharatpur.
Regular buses and taxis operate from Delhi, Jaipur, and Agra to Bharatpur.
By Train
The nearest railway station is Bharatpur Junction (BTE), well-connected to Delhi, Jaipur, Agra, and Mumbai. Major trains include:
- Golden Temple Express (Mumbai–Amritsar)
- Taj Express (Delhi–Gwalior)
- Intercity Express (Jaipur–Agra)
From the railway station, take a rickshaw or taxi to the city center or your hotel.
By Air
The nearest airport is Agra Airport (55 km), but it has limited connectivity. The best option is Indira Gandhi International Airport, Delhi (180 km) or Jaipur International Airport (185 km). From the airport, take a taxi or bus to Bharatpur.
Best Time For Bharatpur Birding Tour
Bharatpur experiences extreme summers and mild winters, so choosing the right season is crucial.
- Winter (October to March): The best time for birdwatching and sightseeing, with temperatures between 8°C to 25°C. This is the peak migration season for birds.
- Summer (April to June): Not recommended due to extreme heat, with temperatures soaring up to 45°C.
- Monsoon (July to September): The sanctuary turns lush green, making it perfect for nature lovers and photographers.
Recommended: Visit between October and March for the best birdwatching and pleasant weather.
Birding in Bharatpur
Bharatpur is one of the best bird sanctuaries in India, attracting birdwatchers, wildlife photographers, and ornithologists from around the world.
Popular Birds in Bharatpur:
- Siberian Crane (Rare visitor)
- Painted Stork
- Bar-headed Goose
- Indian Courser
- Sarun Crane
- Greater Flamingo
- Osprey
- Black-necked Stork
Best Birdwatching Spots:
- Keoladeo National Park Wetlands (For migratory waterfowl)
- Shanti Kutir & Python Point (For raptors and owls)
- Kadamb Kunj & Mansarovar Lake (For waders and ducks)
Best Time for Birding:
- November to February is the ideal time for spotting migratory birds from Central Asia and Siberia.
For the best experience, hire a local birding guide and explore the park by bicycle or cycle rickshaw.
Bharatpur Hotels & Resorts
Bharatpur offers heritage hotels, eco-resorts, and budget accommodations, ensuring a comfortable stay for all travelers.
Luxury & Heritage Hotels:
- Laxmi Vilas Palace – A royal heritage hotel with grand architecture and luxury suites.
- The Bagh Resort – A beautiful eco-resort with lush gardens and spa facilities.
- Udai Vilas Palace – A heritage-style luxury hotel near Keoladeo National Park.
Mid-Range & Budget Hotels:
- Regenta Resort Bharatpur – A comfortable resort with modern amenities and nature views.
- Iora Guest House – A budget-friendly guesthouse perfect for birdwatchers.
- Hotel Sunbird – A mid-range stay close to the bird sanctuary, offering great food and hospitality.
Best Places To Visit In Bharatpur
1. Keoladeo National Park
The star attraction, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, home to over 370 species of birds and diverse wildlife.
2. Lohagarh Fort
A 17th-century fort, known as the “Iron Fort,” showcasing Rajput military architecture.
3. Government Museum Bharatpur
Located inside Lohagarh Fort, displaying artifacts from the royal Bharatpur dynasty.
4. Deeg Palace (35 km from Bharatpur)
A stunning water palace, featuring gardens, fountains, and Mughal-Rajput architecture.
5. Fatehpur Sikri (22 km from Bharatpur)
A UNESCO-listed Mughal city, home to Buland Darwaza and Jama Masjid.
Bharatpur Birding Tour from Delhi
Bharatpur is just 3.5 hours from Delhi, making it an ideal weekend getaway.
- Distance: 182 km
- Travel Time: 3.5 hours
- Route: Delhi → Mathura → Bharatpur
2-Day Itinerary from Delhi
Day 1:
- Drive to Bharatpur, check-in at a heritage hotel.
- Visit Keoladeo National Park for an evening birdwatching session.
- Dinner at Laxmi Vilas Palace.
Day 2:
- Early morning birdwatching at the park.
- Explore Lohagarh Fort & Government Museum.
- Return to Delhi by evening.
Bharatpur Birding Tour from Jaipur
Bharatpur is a 4-hour drive from Jaipur, making it an excellent wildlife and heritage trip.
- Distance: 185 km
- Travel Time: 4 hours
- Route: Jaipur → Dausa → Bharatpur
1-Day Itinerary from Jaipur
- Start early (6 AM) from Jaipur.
- Visit Keoladeo National Park & Lohagarh Fort.
- Lunch at The Bagh Resort.
- Explore Deeg Palace & return to Jaipur by evening.
Bharatpur Distances from Major Cities
| City | Distance | Travel Time |
|---|---|---|
| Delhi | 182 km | 3.5 hrs |
| Jaipur | 185 km | 4 hrs |
| Agra | 55 km | 1 hr |
| Mathura | 40 km | 45 min |
Bharatpur Local Cuisines
Bharatpur offers a mix of Rajasthani, Braj, and Mughlai cuisines, rich in spices and flavors.
Must-Try Dishes:
- Dal Baati Churma – A Rajasthan classic.
- Gatte Ki Sabzi – Gram flour dumplings in curry.
- Mawa Kachori – A sweet delicacy from Rajasthan.
- Bedai & Jalebi – A popular breakfast combo in Bharatpur.
Final Thoughts
Bharatpur is a perfect blend of wildlife, history, and cultural heritage, making it a must-visit destination in Rajasthan. Whether you’re watching migratory birds, exploring ancient forts, or enjoying local cuisine, this city promises an unforgettable experience.
So pack your binoculars and explore the natural wonders of Bharatpur! 🦜🌿✨
