Introduction:
Deepor Beel Bird Sanctuary is a unique destination for bird lovers and nature enthusiasts, located in Guwahati, Assam. Spread over an area of 414 hectares, this sanctuary is a natural habitat for various species of birds. The serene and picturesque surroundings make it an ideal spot for bird watching, nature walks, and photography.

About the Place:
Deepor Beel is a freshwater lake located in the south-western part of Guwahati, at a distance of about 13 kilometers from the city center. The beel is surrounded by hills on three sides and is a part of the Brahmaputra floodplain ecosystem. The sanctuary was created by the Department of Forests, Assam to protect and conserve the biodiversity of the region.

History of the Place:
The Deepor Beel has been mentioned in ancient texts as a natural lake that was formed due to tectonic movements. It has been an important wetland for birds and other animals since prehistoric times. The sanctuary was officially declared in 1989 to protect the unique ecosystem and to promote eco-tourism.

Facts About the Place:

Deepor Beel Bird Sanctuary is home to over 120 species of birds, including kingfishers, fishing eagles, and adjutant storks.
The beel is also a natural habitat for various species of fish, reptiles, and mammals like the water buffalo, deer, and wild boar.
The sanctuary has a watchtower for bird watching and photography.
The beel is surrounded by hills on three sides, adding to the scenic beauty of the place.

Entry Fees and Timings: The entry fee for Indian nationals is INR 50, while foreign nationals have to pay INR 500. The sanctuary is open from 7 am to 4 pm on all days of the week.

Charges for Photography and Video Camera: Photography is allowed inside the sanctuary, and visitors have to pay a fee of INR 500 for still cameras and INR 1000 for video cameras.

Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Deepor Beel Bird Sanctuary is from November to April, when the migratory birds arrive in large numbers. The weather during these months is pleasant, and the beel is full of water.

How Much Time It Will Take to See This Place?
It takes about 2-3 hours to explore the sanctuary and to enjoy bird watching and photography.

Where to Park Your Vehicle When Visiting This Place?
There is a parking area available near the entrance of the sanctuary.

Nearest Metro Stations/Railway Station/Airport:
The nearest railway station is Guwahati Railway Station, which is about 10 kilometers from the sanctuary. The nearest airport is Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport, which is about 22 kilometers from the sanctuary.

Activities to Do at This Place:

Bird watching
Nature walks
Photography
Boating (on request)

FAQs:

Q. Is boating available in Deepor Beel?
A. Yes, boating is available on request.

Q. Are there any food stalls inside the sanctuary?
A. No, there are no food stalls inside the sanctuary. Visitors are advised to carry their own food and water.

Q. Is there a watchtower inside the sanctuary?
A. Yes, there is a watchtower for bird watching and photography inside the sanctuary.

Q. What is the distance between Guwahati city center and Deepor Beel Bird Sanctuary?
A. The distance between Guwahati city center and Deepor Beel Bird Sanctuary is about 13 kilometers.

Q. Is it safe to visit the Deepor Beel Bird Sanctuary?
A. Yes, the sanctuary is safe to visit. However, visitors are advised to follow the rules and regulations set by the forest department to ensure their safety.

Q. Are there any accommodations available near the sanctuary?
A. Yes, there are several hotels and guesthouses available in Guwahati city, which is just 15 km away from the sanctuary.

Q. Can we bring our pets to the sanctuary?
A. No, pets are not allowed inside the sanctuary to avoid disturbance to the birds and other wildlife.

Q. What is the best time to visit the sanctuary?
A. The best time to visit the sanctuary is during the winter months between November and February when the migratory birds arrive in the sanctuary.

Q. Can visitors bring food into the sanctuary?
A. No, visitors are not allowed to bring food into the sanctuary.

Additionally, Deepor Beel Bird Sanctuary is also home to several other species of wildlife such as the Indian hog deer, wild boar, and water buffalo. The beel itself is an important wetland ecosystem and acts as a natural stormwater reservoir for the city of Guwahati. The area is also significant as a site for fish breeding and is an important source of fish for the local community.

Visitors to the sanctuary can indulge in bird watching, nature walks, and boating. The best time to visit is during the winter months between November and February when the migratory birds arrive in the sanctuary. The sanctuary is open to visitors from 7:00 am to 4:00 pm every day except Monday.

There is no entry fee for Indian visitors, but foreign visitors need to pay a nominal fee. Photography is allowed but there is a separate fee for video cameras. The sanctuary is easily accessible by road and visitors can park their vehicles at the designated parking area near the entrance.

In recent years, the sanctuary has faced threats from encroachment and pollution, and efforts are being made by the government and local organizations to protect the area. It is a must-visit destination for nature and bird lovers visiting Guwahati.

Safari and Other Ways to Explore the Sanctuary:

There are a few ways to explore Deepor Beel Bird Sanctuary. One popular option is to go on a bird-watching tour with a local guide who can help you spot different species of birds and provide information about the sanctuary’s ecosystem. You can also rent a boat to go on a bird-watching tour on the beel. In addition, there is a watch tower on the bank of the beel which is a great spot for bird-watching and photography.

Suggestion on Visiting this Place:

Deepor Beel Bird Sanctuary is a must-visit destination for bird lovers and nature enthusiasts. The best time to visit the sanctuary is during the winter months from November to February when the migratory birds arrive. However, the sanctuary is open all year round and you can visit it at any time.

Places to Include When Planning for This Trip:

If you’re planning a trip to Deepor Beel Bird Sanctuary, you can also include other nearby attractions in your itinerary such as:

Kamakhya Temple – one of the most popular temples in Guwahati
Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary – famous for its one-horned rhinoceros population
Manas National Park – a UNESCO World Heritage site and home to various species of animals and birds
Umananda Island – a scenic island on the Brahmaputra River with a famous Shiva temple

Travel Guide and Tips:

Best time to visit: November to February
Timings: 8:00 am to 5:00 pm
Closed on: None
Entry fees: Rs. 30 for Indian citizens and Rs. 500 for foreign nationals
Charges for photography: Rs. 50 for still cameras and Rs. 500 for video cameras
How much time it will take to see this place: Around 2-3 hours
Where to park your vehicle when visiting this place: There is a parking area near the sanctuary
Nearest railway station: Guwahati Railway Station
Nearest airport: Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport
Amenities available at the place: Restrooms, food stalls, and drinking water facilities are available within the sanctuary premises.
Other tips: Wear comfortable clothes and shoes, carry sunscreen and insect repellent, and avoid littering inside the sanctuary.

With its diverse birdlife and serene environment, Deepor Beel Bird Sanctuary is a perfect destination for those seeking a peaceful escape into nature. Make sure to add it to your itinerary when visiting Guwahati.