Delhi is a city of secrets and one of its best-kept secrets is the Okhla Bird Sanctuary, located in Noida on the banks of the Yamuna River. Few know about this hidden gem, but everyone appreciates it when they visit it.
The Okhla Bird Sanctuary is located just across the Yamuna River, at the entrance of NOIDA in Uttar Pradesh. Specifically, it is located at Noida Plaza, N Block, Pocket K, Sector 95, Noida. This lies at the edge of the city, where Delhi ends and Uttar Pradesh begins.
The Okhla Sanctuary is easily accessible by car and metro. If you are going there by car, you can drive to the edge of the sanctuary and then walk for about 50 meters to get inside. Cars are not allowed inside the sanctuary to limit pollution and to protect the birds from loud sounds.
The best time to visit the Okhla Bird Sanctuary is in the winter months between October and March. The Okhla Bird Sanctuary timings are 7 am to 5:30 pm while the Okhla Bird Sanctuary entry fee is a nominal Rs. 30 for Indian citizens and Rs. 350 for foreigners.
The sanctuary covers over 4 sq. km are home to over 188 species of plants, herbs, shrubs, trees and grasses. Many of these plants are rare species and some are on the endangered list.
The sanctuary is also home to over 320 bird species including 69 migratory birds. Some rare species of birds come here from far away and can be hard to spot without the use of binoculars.
Besides plants and birds, the sanctuary is also home to 10 species of mammals. These include Nilgai, Indian Mongoose, Black-Napped Hare and Jackals along with 8 species of reptiles, 2 species of amphibians and over 30 species of butterflies and insects.
One of the best and most convenient places to stay in Noida when you visit the Okhla Bird Sanctuary is Nio by Tarika. This modern and stylish hotel is strategically located to provide easy access to many of Noida’s tourist places, including the Okhla Bird Sanctuary.
The hotel offers comfortable rooms, great service and delicious cuisine along with some impressive venues and conference rooms for parties, business conferences and other events. Overall, Nio by Tarika offers a great experience that is value for money and very convenient for out-of-town guests.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Ans. The Okhla Bird Sanctuary is open from 7 am to 5:30 pm, Monday to Friday. The best time of year to visit the sanctuary is in the winter months between October and March as the weather is nice and many migratory birds can be spotted during this time.
Ans. No. Cars have been banned from entering the Okhla Bird Sanctuary to prevent pollution and vehicles from scaring away the birds.
Ans. To enter the Okhla Bird Sanctuary, there is a nominal fee of Rs. 30 for Indian citizens and Rs. 350 for foreigners.
Ans. To enter the Okhla Bird Sanctuary, there is a nominal fee of Rs. 30 for Indian citizens and Rs. 350 for foreigners.
Ans. No cars are allowed inside the sanctuary and visitors are strictly prohibited from making loud noises, playing loud music, carrying firearms, making fires, throwing stones, littering, using plastic bags, smoking and engaging in socially unacceptable behaviour.
Ans. The Magenta line stops at Botanical Gardens, the nearest Metro Station to the Okhla Bird Sanctuary.
