The Naina Devi Himalayan Bird Reserve is a special place high up at 2,084 meters above sea level. It covers a big area of about 11,192 hectares and is located in Kilbury and Pangot, just 15 km north of Nainital. This place is like a protected area for birds, especially rare and endangered ones. They officially called it a ‘Reserve’ in 2007. People started visiting and enjoying this place in 2015, and it has become very popular, especially for those who love watching birds.
The Naina Devi Himalayan Bird Reserve is famous for having many different kinds of birds. It’s like a special place that helps keep these birds safe. If you’re visiting Nainital, it’s a must-see spot. People really enjoy being there.
This reserve is special because it has a lot of streams from the Ramganga river, making it even more attractive for people who love nature. These streams are important because they help the plants and animals in the reserve to grow well. So, if you love nature, this place is perfect for you to explore and enjoy its beauty.
Birds Species at Naina Devi Himalayan Bird Reserve Nainital
The Naina Devi Himalayan Bird Reserve in Nainital is home to many different kinds of birds. Some of the notable ones include.
- Cheer Pheasant
- Greater Spotted Eagle
- Red-headed Vulture
- Eastern Imperial Eagle
- Grey-crowned Prinia
- Black-crested Warbler
- Whistler’s Warbler
The reserve has tall pine and oak trees that provide a natural home for a variety of Himalayan Birds like Himalayan Griffon, Bearded Vulture, Goldcrest, Khalij Pheasant, Koklass Pheasant, Black-chinned Babbler, Hill Partridge, Black-throated Tit, Green-tailed Sunbird, Rock Bunting, and many more.
Animals at Naina Devi Bird Reserve
The Naina Devi Himalayan Bird Reserve in Nainital is home to various mammals like barking deer, yellow-bellied weasel, yellow-throated marten, stoat, and Himalayan Goral. Nearby, you’ll discover charming hamlets like Kilbury, Barapathar, and Vinayak, enhancing the picturesque landscape. The untouched mountain range surrounding these hamlets and the bird reserve provides a tranquil retreat for the soul.
Entry Fee & Timings
Entrance to the Naina Devi Himalayan Bird Reserve in Nainital is free of charge, and the reserve is accessible every day until sunset.
Activities at Naina Devi Himalayan Bird Reserve, Nainital
Naina Devi Himalayan Bird Reserve, adorned with a diverse avian population, stands as a haven for bird enthusiasts. Renowned ornithologists frequent this reserve to study its rich variety of bird species. Among the frequently spotted birds are the Eastern Imperial Eagle, Cheer Pheasant, Whistler’s Warbler, Great Spotted Eagle, and Red-headed Vulture.
Engaging in nature walks is a popular activity among tourists visiting this reserve. The reserve, enveloped by dense thickets of oak and pine trees, offers an ideal setting to connect with the wonders of nature. Morning and evening walks are particularly renowned. Additionally, visitors have the opportunity to embark on hikes to the nearby hamlets, enhancing the overall experience.
Best Time to Visit Naina Devi Himalayan Bird Reserve, Nainital
The optimal time to explore the Naina Devi Himalayan Bird Reserve is during the summer months, specifically in March, April, May, and June. During this season, the beauty of the reserve is accentuated, and the weather is notably pleasant, although evenings may occasionally become chilly.
For a family excursion, the summer season is considered ideal. Conversely, for a romantic getaway, winters present a charming gift, with the allure of snowfall adding a touch of romance. Beyond being a haven for birdwatchers, Pangot and the nearby area of Sigri boast breathtaking scenic beauty and a picturesque landscape, making it an ideal destination for both picnics and vacations.
Traveler Tips for Naina Devi Himalayan Bird Reserve, Nainital:
- When you plan your visit to the enchanting Naina Devi Himalayan Bird Reserve, keep these tips in mind for a memorable experience.
- Adhere to all rules and instructions provided by the authorities to ensure the safety of both visitors and the natural habitat.
- Before your journey, check the weather forecast, especially during the rainy season, to ensure optimal conditions for enjoying the beauty of the reserve.
- Bring binoculars and cameras to enhance your bird-watching experience and capture the stunning avian fauna found in the reserve.
- Engage in nature walks to immerse yourself in the lush surroundings, discovering the diverse flora and fauna that call the reserve home.
- Take advantage of the serene mornings and evenings for leisurely strolls, appreciating the beauty of the reserve at different times of the day.
- Explore nearby hamlets like Kilbury, Barapathar, and Vinayak through hiking, adding to the overall scenic beauty of your visit.
- Plan your visit in summer for a family-friendly outing, enjoying the beauty and serenity of the reserve.
- If you’re looking for a romantic escape, winter offers a picturesque landscape with the added charm of snowfall.
- Beyond bird watching, explore the nearby areas of Pangot and Sigri, known for their breathtaking scenic beauty, making them perfect for picnics and vacations.
How to reach
Address – Naina Devi Himalayan Bird Reserve, Pangot, Kilbury Road,Nainital, Uttarakhand, 263001, India
Latitude –29.3924° N, Longitude- 79.4534° E
By Road: The Naina Devi Himalayan Bird Reserve is situated 15 km away from Nainital City. Accessible by self-driving or hiring a taxi cab, the bird reserve is approximately 357 km from Delhi and 367 km from Agra. Private taxis are available at the bus stand for a convenient journey to the bird reserve.
By Train: For those traveling by train, the nearest railway station is Kathgodam Railway Station, located about 22 km from the Naina Devi Himalayan Bird Reserve, Nainital. A plethora of bus and taxi services operate from the railway station, ensuring easy transportation to the bird reserve.
By Air: If you prefer air travel, Pantnagar Airport stands as the nearest airport, approximately 97 km from the Naina Devi Himalayan Bird Reserve, Nainital. Private or shared taxi services from the airport offer a 2 to 3-hour journey to reach the bird reserve.
FAQs about Naina Devi Himalayan Bird Reserve, Nainital:
The Naina Devi Himalayan Bird Reserve, nestled at 2,084 meters above sea level, spans 11,192 hectares in Kilbury and Pangot, just 15 km north of Nainital. Officially designated as a ‘Reserve’ in 2007, it serves as a protected haven for rare and endangered bird species.
The reserve boasts a diverse avian population, including notable species like Cheer Pheasant, Greater Spotted Eagle, Red-headed Vulture, Eastern Imperial Eagle, Grey-crowned Prinia, Black-crested Warbler, and Whistler’s Warbler. Tall pine and oak trees provide a natural habitat for various Himalayan Birds.
Yes, the reserve is home to various mammals, including barking deer, yellow-bellied weasel, yellow-throated marten, stoat, and Himalayan Goral. Charming hamlets like Kilbury, Barapathar, and Vinayak enhance the picturesque landscape.
Entrance to the Naina Devi Himalayan Bird Reserve is free of charge, and the reserve is accessible every day until sunset.
Accordion
Visitors can enjoy bird watching, with renowned ornithologists frequenting the reserve. Nature walks, morning and evening strolls, and hikes to nearby hamlets like Kilbury are popular activities.
The optimal time to explore the reserve is during the summer months (March to June) for pleasant weather. Winter offers a charming landscape with occasional snowfall.
- Adhere to rules and instructions provided by authorities.
- Check the weather forecast, especially during the rainy season.
- Bring binoculars and cameras for bird-watching.
- Engage in nature walks and explore nearby hamlets.
- Plan visits in summer for families and winter for a romantic getaway.
The reserve is 15 km from Nainital City. By road, self-driving or hiring a taxi is convenient. The nearest railway station is Kathgodam, and Pantnagar is the nearest airport. Bus and taxi services are available for easy transportation.
