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Uttar Pradesh

Soor Sarovar Bird Sanctuary

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January

4.1 - 27.7 °C

February

6.7 - 31.7 °C

March

10.1 - 38.6 °C

April

15.1 - 43.1 °C

May

20.5 - 46.1 °C

June

20.8 - 46.0 °C

July

21.7 - 41.3 °C

August

21.6 - 37.1 °C

September

20.7 - 37.4 °C

October

14.8 - 37.5 °C

November

9.4 - 33.2 °C

December

4.5 - 27.6 °C


Major Airports :

Agra Airport (AGR)

Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL)

Nearest Railway Station :

Agra City Railway Station (AGA)

Major Airports :

Agra Airport (AGR)

Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL)

A haven of serenity

Along the Delhi-Mathura highway lies the Soor Sarovar Bird Sanctuary, a haven of serenity where not only nature's wonders and charming birds captivate your soul, but you discover a place steeped in history and legend.

As you step through its gates, you will be greeted by a symphony of chirping birds and lush vegetation. Marvel at over 165 species of migratory and resident birds, some of which you will find gliding across the shores of Keetham Lake, feathers aglow in the soft morning light. Beautiful scenes like these are a common sight here, but the sanctuary offers more than just natural beauty.

This sanctuary is also a place of spiritual resonance, where the echoes of ancient love stories and poetic inspiration fill the air. It is primarily known as the place where the revered spiritual poet Soordas wrote "Bhakti Kavya," one of the finest pieces of devotional poetry ever written.

So welcome to Soor Sarovar Bird Sanctuary where you will discover a sanctuary for the soul amidst the bustling world filled with nature's beauty.

From a reservoir to an ecosystem

Originally, Soor Sarovar was not established as a protected sanctuary but rather as an artificial reservoir created to supply the water in Agra. However, this artificial lake soon blossomed into a vibrant ecosystem as time passed, drawing in many feathered visitors from far and wide. The sanctuary's strategic location, along vital migratory routes, made it an irresistible stopover for countless birds seeking refuge, sustenance, and a place to raise their young.

It wasn't until 1991 that the government recognised this wetland's true ecological value, and it was officially declared as Soor Sarovar Bird Sanctuary. Today, this 7.97 square-kilometre oasis boasts a vast central lake measuring an impressive 2.25 square kilometres with depths ranging from 4 to 8 metres. But the sanctuary's treasures don't end with its feathered inhabitants—it is also home to a thriving population of over 300 pythons. And is the biggest bear rescue centre.

Where the dancing bears found a home

One of the most incredible things about the Soor Sarovar Bird Sanctuary is the work being done to protect and rehabilitate the region's sloth bear population. Deep within this lush wetland oasis lies the Agra Bear Rescue Facility, a true sanctuary for these magnificent creatures.

There was a time when these bears were used by local tribespeople as a means of income, who would capture and mutilate the cubs, forcing them to "dance" for the entertainment of the public. Thankfully, the dedicated team at Wildlife SOS has worked tirelessly to put an end to this practice, rescuing over 170 bears and giving them a chance at a better life.

At the Agra Bear Rescue Facility, you will witness the love and compassion for wildlife. The rescued bears are nurtured in a natural environment mirroring their habitat to ensure their well-being. And if you spot the cute sloth bears who call this lush sanctuary home, well, your day is made.


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Timings

Opening time - 08:00 AM

Closing time - 06:00 PM

A paradise for nature photography

If you're a photography enthusiast, you're destined to fall in love with Soor Sarovar Bird Sanctuary.

The moment you step into the sanctuary, your eyes will start noticing wallpaper-worthy scenes. A beautiful waterfowl gliding across the serene Keetham Lake here. A graceful heron or an egret, its feathers shimmering in the sunlight there. Elegant kingfishers perched vigilantly on the lakeside vegetation. And don't forget to snap some bears and pythons whose antics would surely find a special place in your gallery. And all this against the sanctuary's varied landscapes that provide stunning backdrops for your creative vision.

This avian paradise is bursting with photographic possibilities, waiting to be discovered through your lens.

Other architectural wonders around

After exploring the natural wonders within the Soor Sarovar Bird Sanctuary, take a short drive to visit the iconic Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, Chini ka Rauza, and Sikandra, all showcasing the rich history and architecture of Agra.

So, pack your bags and get your camera and binoculars ready to observe and capture the natural splendour of the Soor Sarovar Bird Sanctuary. Discover a realm where nature, devotion, and history converge, igniting the senses and awakening the soul.