Bird watching

India’s vast geographical range is home to a large variety of resident birds, with the number increasing manifold with the arrival of migratory birds in winter. Besides, the national parks and sanctuaries, there are innumerable places to bird in India. Here is a list of five that you must see.
Mishmi Hills, Arunachal Pradesh
A canvas of white and green, Mishmi hills are situated at the Northeastern tip of Arunachal Pradesh. The hills are a diverse lot, ranging from the lush green plains and dense forests to the snow-capped mountains of the lower Himalayan ranges. Along with the variety of the topography comes a coloured package of birds. A birder’s paradise, these hills offer views of over 680 species of birds, including Sclater’s monal, fire-tailed myzornis, black-headed greenfinch and grey-headed bullfinch. Sub-tropical weather can be expected from 5 degrees to 38 degrees Celsius.
Keoladeo National Park, Rajasthan
For those whose interests do not end at birds, Keoladeo National Park in Rajasthan offers additional wildlife apart from the winged creatures. Also known as Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary, the area is a man-made collection of wetlands, woodlands and grasslands. As one could imagine, the mosaic of terrain are home to a bunch of species- 366 bird species, 50 species of fish, 13 species of snakes, 7 amphibian species and 5 species of lizards. Among the 366 bird species are grey hornbills, painted storks, sarus cranes, open-billed storks and cormorants. The area is away from the city, a quiet reserve ideal for bird-watching. 
Mangalajodi, Odisha
On first thought of birding in Odisha, Chilika Lake is an obvious priority. The large lagoon is home to thousands of birds and offers spectacular views. However, for a birder, the offbeat experiences hold a more enamouring memory than those commercially popular. Mangalajodi is one such location. Nestled on the northeast frontier of Chilika Lake, the hamlet is a haven for around 100 species of birds, including open-billed storks, black-tailed godwits and black-winged stilts. After an unforgettable birding trip, you can also travel to the nearby village of Brahmandi potters to shop for artisanal works of clay or visit the vivid Shiva temple.
Bhigwan, Maharashtra
Located near the commercial town of Baramati in Maharashtra, the backwater of the Ujani Dam on the Bhima River is a little-known birding paradise. Home to nearly 230 species of resident and winter migratory birds, it is a delightful place to watch the birds at close quarters. Some of the local fishermen will agree to take you across the lake in their row boats. Flamingos and bar-headed geese are some of the common visitors in winter. According to local reports, in March 2016, birders were delighted with the rare sighting of the Red Phalarope, a wader that breeds in the Arctic region.
Thattekad Bird Sanctuary, Kerala
It seems like God’s own country keeps on giving to those who visit. Nestled in Kerala’s Ernakulam district is Thattekad Bird Sanctuary, home to an impressive 250 species of birds. From crimson-backed sunbirds, Nilgiri wood pigeons, black baza and Sri Lanka frogmouths to Malabar parakeets, Nilgiri flycatchers and white-bellied woodpeckers. Thattekad is the only bird sanctuary in the state but still provides a memorable experience attracting many birders to the sole site in Kerala. Photographers may especially find themselves particularly excited.