Morning Chirps And Mystic Ghats Birding In The Heart Of Varanasi

India.com

5 days ago

Varanasi is one of the most populated cities with history living there since ages, and is well known for its ancient temples and ghats located by the side of holy Ganges River. While it is mainly known for religious tourism and cultural heritage, very few people know that the city has hidden places where bird watching enthusiasts would get the chance to capture surprising birds. The city's beautiful chaos coupled with serene river sides makes wildlife to inhabit there. This essay will highlight some of the lesser known yet fascinating bird watching locations in Varanasi along with their unique features and ecological value.
The Underappreciated Non Man-Made Wonders of Varanasi
With more than 1.2 million people living in Varanasi, it is a metropolitan city, yet Varanasi has numerous green fields along with marshes which act as shelter for birds both migrating as well as residents of the area. These sites serve as home for multiple species leading to a large variety of birds, giving a unique opportunity to birdwatchers to have a close encounter with nature. Let's explore these amazing locations together.
1. Assi Ghat and the Assi River confluence
Even though Assi Ghat is a must visit place for tourists and pilgrims, the southern part of Varanasi is also interesting for the water birds due to the ecosystem created from the confluence of Ganges River and Assi River. This place hosts a number of waterbirds, especially during the winters when birds from central Asia and Siberia begin to arrive.
These waterbirds include the Indian Spot-billed Duck, Common Teal, Northern Pintail, and Little Grebe. Black-winged Stilt and Red-wattled Lapwing are some of the most known wading birds that you would expect to see at Assi Ghat. Going there in the early mornings or late afternoons works best, as the sun is not too bright, and you get to see a minimum number of people.
The nearby vegetation along the river provides enough cover for small birds such as White-throated Kingfisher, Purple Sunbird and Ashy Prinia. The ghat and the birds work in nature's perfect harmony to create stunning scenery for photographers.
2. Rajghat Wetlands
Rajaghat is located further upstream alongside the Ganges and is a concealed treasure for bird watching in Varanasi. This region's expansive wetlands and marshy areas attract a wide variety of aquatic, and terrestrial birds. Monsoons flood these wetlands which become fertile breeding and feeding grounds during this season.
Some of these species include the Paint Stork, Asian Openbill and the Grey Heron. The Brahminy Kite, and Black Kite are some of the more recognizable raptors that can frequently be found overhead examining the wetlands. Bittern and Moorhen are some of the more introverted birds that are commonly found hidden in the dense reeds and grasses. These birds are secretive and require sharp perceptive abilities to be spotted.
Rajaghat's distinct feature that sets it apart from the rest is the lack of peace and quiet of the other parts of Varanasi. This area suffers from an abundance of foot traffic, but this in turn allows birds to relax and behave more gregariously, which makes it possible for visitors to watch courtship displays as well as nesting builds.
3. Banaras Hindu University (BHU) Campus
Established in 1916, Banaras Hindu University is one of the largest residential universities in Asia, sprawling over an area of 1,300 acres. BHU has its own unparalleled charm. With its well-maintained gardens, tree-dotted landscapes, and artificial lakes, BHU is not only a learning center but also a green haven within the city. These microhabitats serve as ecological niches which sustain a diverse avifauna, or birdlife. From birdwatching enthusiasts, BHU is an ideal getaway from the cacophony of Varanasi's streets.
Some of the standout species observed within the university grounds include the majestic Indian peafowl, with its brilliant feathers and splendid tail fans. Other common species include Rose-ringed Parakeet, Oriental Magpie-Robin, and Indian Robin. The large trees on the de Toledo campus provide adequate nesting sites for various owls such as Spotted Owlet and Brown Hawk-Owl that can sometimes be seen roosting during the day.
BHU also boasts a stunning network of ponds that attract a variety of waterfowl including Cotton Pygmy Goose and Whiskered Tern. Birdwatchers ought to look for observers in the more secluded areas of the campus, particularly in the early hours of the morning when bird activity is greatest.
4. Sarnath Wildlife Sanctuary
About a 10 minute drive from Varanasi is Sarnath, widely known for its archaeological ruins and Buddhist stupas. As much as these facts might intrigue you, something not so widely known is that Sarnath houses a protected wildlife sanctuary which serves as an important nesting grounds for various species of birds. The sanctuary, which covers only about 1.5 square kilometers consisting of scrub forests, open grasslands, and small water bodies, was set in place with the intention of protecting the local wildlife and plants. However, even due to its small size it has outgrown its intended purpose.
Visitors to Sarnath Wildlife Sanctuary are treated to a delightful mix of resident and migratory birds throughout the seasons. Winter adds to the color of the landscape with flocks of Greater Flamingos, Ruddy Shelducks, and Bar-headed Geese. The Sarus Crane (World's Tallest flying bird) is a resident species loved by tourists while the Indian Courser also adds some flavor to the place throughout the year.
This region is quite flat and therefore is favorable for several ground birds like quails and larks to nest and breed. The presence of its other residents, the Indian Grey Mongoose, is bound to make wildlife lovers jump with joy. A guided walk can leave you with the beauty of these ecosystems and human civilization coexisting side by side.
5. Adampur Lake
To the north of Varanasi, Adampur Lake is a spectacular but lesser-known site for birdwatchers. This artificial lake or reservoir sustains an outstanding population of waterbirds and acts as a staging ground for some migratory bird species on their journey along the Central Asia Flyway.
Adampur Lake becomes a birdwatching center during the peak migration season, when one may sight Ferruginous Duck, Garganey, and Osprey among others. The lake's shallow waters abound with fish, which draw in riverine bird users like the Pied Kingfisher and River Tern. Egrets and cormorants can be readily seen sitting on the numerous rocks or diving below for food.
Intermediates at birdwatching will appreciate Adampur Lake since it is for the most part easy and accessible. Because the lake is so close to the main city, even those who do not intend to tour for long will be able to take advantage of a short lake visit and still have their problems solved.
What makes Varanasi a bird watching destination is the strange combination of urban life and wild nature that exists within the borders of the city. In contrast to the national parks or distant reserves, the birding places in Varanasi are always surrounded by the ancient tradition and modern city. This means people, wildlife, and everything in between interact dynamically.
Tips for Birdwatching in Varanasi
To enjoy your birdwatching trip in Varanasi, below are some helpful tips.
Timing Matters: Birds are most active during dawn and dusk, try to schedule your visits accordingly.
Dress Appropriately: Wear clothes that do not stand out like those with stripes so as to make the blend with the surroundings and not scare the birds away.
Bring Binoculars and Field Guides: Necessary items for spotting and distinguishing far or rare birds.
Respect Local Guidelines: Abide by any protective measures for the birds and their homes.
Engage with Locals: Be free to talk with the locals, some might save you valuable information about local birds.
Conclusion
Although Varanasi may not be viewed as a prime birdwatching location, its culture, history, and ecology make it uniquely special for nature enthusiasts. Each site, from the serene wetlands of Rajghat to the lively campus of BHU, has something new and different to offer. These hidden birdwatching opportunities enable you to appreciate Varanasi's natural treasures while aiding in the conservation of its delicate ecosystems. Whether you are an avid birdwatcher or just interested in the birds of this traditional city, Varanasi offers a one-of-a-kind experience of India's birding treasures.