Sit back, relax and hear the sound of exotic Indian birds or get your binoculars and note the colours, plumage and other characteristics of Indian and the many species of birds that are found in abundance in the serene plantations and hills of India.

Where to go
Vast forest covers and verdant locations with rich bio diversity are often the choice for many travellers who are looking at the outdoors for a holiday option.

Bird watching is especially good in the Kuttanad backwaters and plantation areas of Kerala, the Himalayas at Spiti and in the Rajasthan desert and hills. The Uttarakhand belt is also a great place for bird watching especially with the Corbett National Park in the region.

Other top destinations for birding in India include Bandhavgarh in Madhya Pradesh, Chilika in Orissa, the Gir Forest in Gujarat, Kaziranga National Park in Assam and the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary in Goa.

Bird watching advice and information
It is just not about visiting the right places, it is about being there are the right time and having expert local knowledge to guide you.

1. To make the most of your bird watching time it is a good idea to be guided by a keen and experienced eye. If you are staying in a homestay ask your host to guide you to the best bird watchers and experts in the area if you are serious about this.
2. If you are entering a national park or a reserved forest ask make sure you have all the information you need about visiting and any permits which may be required. Birding can often be paired with wildlife spotting so consider a wildlife safari package.
3. Homestays which lie in relevant areas often have equipment like binoculars and camouflaging clothes or jackets which you will be able to borrow. Camping equipment for those who want to have a real outdoor experience can be made available.

Homestays which offer bird watching holidays are places where you will find like minded people who will only be too happy to share their birding experiences and stories with you. Get in touch if you would like more information about top destinations and homestays for bird watchers to visit.

Find out more about the different activities you can experience in India.