Spread over just 1.42 sq km, Sultanpur has been attracting birds for over 100 years. Over 320 species have been listed here (almost one third of the species in the country). Its potential was only highlighted in 1969, at the Conference of the IUCN (World Conservation Union) in New Delhi thanks to the efforts of Peter Jackson (a journalist turned conservationist). It was declared a sanctuary in 1971, and upgraded to national park (the only one in Haryana) in 1991.

The entry gate of the park is to the left, off the main Gurgaon-Farrukhnagar district road, 3 km from Chandu Village. The parking facility is near the entry gate, which leads both to the sanctuary and the Rosy Pelican TRH. The complex also houses the Forest Department Office. A circular road starting from the entrance point encircles the sanctuary area. Several watchtowers mark this path. A museum, an interpretation centre and a library are located at the entrance, across from which is the ticket booth.

Park Entry Indians ₹5; Foreigners ₹40 Vehicle parking ₹10 Timings 6.30am-4.30pm Photography ₹25 Videography ₹500

TIP For schedules and rates of packages and tours, call Haryana Tourism.

THING TO SEE AND DO

Take a scope (or good binoculars) out, find a nice spot and birdwatch quietly. If you are starting in the early morning, a walk around the lake in a clockwise direction is best; the direction of the sun’s rays will also be conducive for clear viewing. A bund, broken in sections, runs right around the lake.

The area south of the park, accessible from the park itself because the fence between the two parts is broken, is often very rewarding. It is especially good for viewing Indian coursers (which come here to breed in winter), chestnut-bellied sandgrouse, yellowwattled lapwings, and bimaculated, Hume’s short-toed, and ashycrowned finch larks.

Great Egret (Casmerodius) at Sultanpur
Great Egret (Casmerodius) at Sultanpur

Museum and Library

The library stocks books on wild life. The museum has photos of the birds that visit Sultanpur; there is also information on the routes of the migratory birds.

WHERE TO STAY AND EAT

The Haryana Tourism Development Corporation has 14 rooms at the Rosy Pelican (Cell: 09582555626; Tariff: ₹2,175-2,975) at Sultanpur. It has a restaurant and a bar, and vast lawns. It has the added advantage of being located within the park complex.

When to go Open year round but October-March is a good time to spot migratory birds Location Close to Delhi, past the lush expanses along the Gurgaon-Farrukhnagar Road Air Nearest airport: Delhi Rail Nearest rail: Gurgaon