Naina Devi Bird Reserve is a wildlife reserve in the Nainital district of Uttarakhand, India. It is named after Naina Devi, a Hindu goddess and the patron deity of Nainital. It is the only bird reserve in the state and one of the few high altitude bird reserves in India. It was established in 2007 and opened to visitors in 2015. Visit during Nainital Local Sightseeing.
Naina Devi Bird Reserve covers an area of 111.9 sq km and comprises over 200 species of rare and endangered birds, some of which are native to the Himalayan region. In this article, we will explore the various aspects of this reserve, such as its location, timing, entry fees, how to reach, things to do, must see, significance, FAQs, and conclusion.
Location of Naina Devi Bird Reserve
Naina Devi Bird Reserve is located on the Nainital-Kunjhark Road, about 15 km north of Nainital city. The reserve is situated at an elevation of 2,084 m or 6,837 ft above sea level and has a forest type of evergreen oak and cypress. The reserve has a scenic view of the surrounding hills and valleys. The reserve stretches over 12 forest blocks of the Nainital forest division.
Timing / Entry Fees Naina Devi Bird Reserve
The reserve is open for visitors from 6:00 am to 6:00 pm every day except Monday. The reserve remains closed on Mondays and national holidays. The entry fees for visitors are as follows:
- Adult (Indian) Rs 50/-
- Child (Indian) Rs 20/-
- Adult (Foreigner) Rs 200/-
- Child (Foreigner) Rs 100/-
- Free entry for senior citizens, specially abled and children below 5 years.
The entry fees can be paid online through the official website of Naina Devi Bird Reserve www.nainadevibirdreserve.org.in or at the ticket counter at the reserve entrance.
How to Reach Naina Devi Bird Reserve
The reserve is well-connected by road from various parts of Uttarakhand and nearby states. The nearest city to the reserve is Nainital, which is a popular hill station and tourist destination. The nearest airport to the reserve is Pantnagar airport, which is about 65 km away from Nainital. The nearest railway station to the reserve is Kathgodam railway station, which is about 40 km away from Nainital. There are regular buses and taxis available from Pantnagar airport and Kathgodam railway station to Nainital. From Nainital, one can take a taxi or a bus to reach the reserve.
Things to Do / Must See in Naina Devi Bird Reserve
The main attraction of Naina Devi Bird Reserve is the bird watching, where visitors can see various birds in their natural habitat. The reserve has a rich biodiversity of flora and fauna, with around 28 animal species and over 100 bird species. Some of the birds that can be seen in the reserve are:
- Cheer pheasant
- Red-headed vulture
- Greater spotted eagle
- Eastern imperial eagle
- Grey-crowned prinia
- Black-crested tit
- Green-crowned warbler
- Whistler’s warbler
- Bearded vulture
- Himalayan griffon
- Koklass pheasant
- Kalij pheasant
- Goldcrest
- Rufous sibia
- Red-billed leiothrix
- Black-chinned babbler
- Chestnut-bellied nuthatch
- Black-throated tit
- Rock bunting
- Green-tailed sunbird
- Yellow-breasted greenfinch
Apart from bird watching, there are other activities that visitors can enjoy in and around the reserve, such as:
- Nature walk: There are many nature trails in and around the reserve that offer scenic views of the forest and the hills. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely walk along these trails and observe the flora and fauna of the region.
- Photography: The reserve is a paradise for photography enthusiasts, as it offers many opportunities to capture the beauty and diversity of nature. Visitors can take pictures of the birds in their natural habitat, as well as the scenic landscapes of the reserve.
- Education: The reserve organizes various outreach programmes and events for children, students, local people and visitors to create awareness and sensitization towards bird conservation. Some of the occasions on which these programmes are conducted are World Environment Day, Ozone Layer Conservation Day, Wild Life Week, etc. The reserve also has an interpretation centre and a library where visitors can learn more about the birds and ecology of the region.
Significance of Naina Devi Bird Reserve
Naina Devi Bird Reserve is not only a tourist attraction but also a conservation area that plays a vital role in preserving the birds and the ecosystem of the region. The reserve is one of the few high altitude bird reserves in India that provides a suitable habitat for many rare and endangered species of birds, some of which are native to the Himalayan region.
The reserve also supports many free ranging animals and birds that live in the surrounding forest. The reserve also serves as a source of livelihood for many local people who are involved in tourism and reserve-related activities. The reserve also contributes to the research and education on birds and ecology.
FAQs
Q: What is the best time to visit Naina Devi Bird Reserve?
A: The best time to visit Naina Devi Bird Reserve is from March to June and from September to November, when the weather is pleasant and the chances of spotting birds are high.
Q: What are the facilities available in Naina Devi Bird Reserve?
A: Some of the facilities available in Naina Devi Bird Reserve are:
Safe drinking water
Direction boards and information signages
Cloak room for keeping baggage
Cafeteria run by the reserve society
Public toilets
First aid kit
Wheelchair for specially abled visitors
Conclusion
Naina Devi Bird Reserve is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and bird enthusiasts. It offers a unique opportunity to witness the beauty and diversity of nature at a high altitude. It is a place where you can experience adventure, thrill, and relaxation at the same time. It is a place where you can create unforgettable memories with your family and friends. So, what are you waiting for? Plan your trip to Naina Devi Bird Reserve today!
