There has always been a certain mystery about forests that has fueled our fantasies. In a way, walking through a forest is like meditating. There is a sense of peace and calm about it. Amidst the sounds of the leaves rustling and birds calling, there is a sense of tranquillity.

Forests have a lot to offer – the ultimate support to mankind. One of the many activities that a forest trail bestows you with is birdwatching. There are many bird sanctuaries and nature walks all over the country that allows you to explore the outdoors in an exciting and interesting way. Or, simply a relaxing activity while escaping into nature.

So, go ahead and bookmark some of the beautiful forest trails to explore for therapeutic birdwatching in India:

1. Deepor Beel Wildlife Sanctuary, Guwahati, Assam

Deepor Beel has always been a heavenly and peaceful treat. If you’re looking for a perfect sundowner moment while looking at the verdant waters of the lake, these wetlands let your mind settle into a tranquil state leading to natural nirvana. Water birds can be seen perching and plunging headfirst into the water to snag a fish in the blink of an eye. Spectacular birds like pelicans, kingfishers, herons, egrets and other water birds add cheer to this unique atmosphere. Personally, I would recommend going during sunset time when the sky puts on a spectacular colour show while a folk of birds with the most calming chirping sounds make their movement in glorious circles in the evening sky.

Where: 4M74+6C2, Chakardeo Village, Guwahati, Assam
When: Open throughout the year

2. Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary, Uttarakhand

Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary in Kumaon, Uttarakhand, is an ornithologist’s heaven. The woodland walks through the forest may help you become rejuvenated and regenerated, thanks to the enchanting views of sublimely snow-sheathed Himalayan peaks. The most popular route is to hike to Zero Point, which provides a 360-degree vista of the high Himalayan peaks stretching from Himachal Pradesh in the northwest to Nepal in the east. From the shiny bright Verditer Flycatcher, and Eurasian Jay to the Bar-tailed Treecreeper – these birds will enchant you on your trail.

Where: PQ43+6H4, Binsar, Uttarakhand
When: Best time to visit this sanctuary is from February to April and October to November

Also Read: Tamil Nadu To Soon Have A ₹25-Cr Bird Conservation Centre Set Up Near Chennai

3. Thattekad Bird Sanctuary, Thattekad, Kerala

From a wildlife enthusiast, the Western Ghats possess a breathtaking landscape with their undulating tropical and shola forests. The belt is home to numerous endemic species of birds – from the Nilgiri Wood pigeon, and Malabar Trogon to Whistling Thrush. The trail through the sanctuary is considered one of the best birdwatching in India.

Where: 4MHP+WR9, Kothamangalam-Pooyamkutty Road, Nyayapally PO, Thattekad, Kerala
When: Open throughout the year

4. Village Walks In Mukteswar, Uttarakhand

Another birdwatcher’s paradise in the Himalayas is Mukteswar. What charms Himalayan villages is how their village walks let you explore the unadulterated nature. The trees and ancient oaks along the road, the gently sloping terrain covered with flat ferns, and the fresh mountain air soothe you. The walks are enhanced by a symphony in the air and the trees’ seeming capacity to swing, dance, and sing with the wind. From white-capped redstart, magpies, white-fronted woodpeckers and more, your eyes are going to be in for a treat.

5. Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary, South Goa

There’s more to Goa other than just beaches and parties. Besides being home to an abundance of lush vegetation, this sanctuary houses many endangered species of birds. Southern Goa should be enough for viewing the rarest of bird species without having to fly to the extremities of the planet. The Ceylon frogmouth, Malabar trogon, and white-bellied woodpecker are among the exotic migrants.

Where: 87MQ+H89, Mollem, Goa
When: Best time to visit this sanctuary is from October to April

Also Read: Jharkhand’s Udhwa Bird Sanctuary Hopes To Bag The Prestigious Ramsar Site Status

Which of these birdwatching trails in India would you be heading to next?

Cover Image Credits: Canva