Punjab is also spectacular breeding ground for variegated species of resident as well as migratory birds. The state houses cormorants, herons, storks, pelicans, grebes, darters and several other varieties of birds that are a real treat to behold. Hari-ke-pattan, Amritsar, National Wetland & Wildlife Sanctuary is an eminent bird reserve of the state where nearly 350 species of birds from as far as Siberia seek refuge during the chilly winters. The wetland is also a breeding ground for varieties of freshwater fish.
The Zoological Park, Chhatbir spreads across a rambling expanse and shelters as many as 52 varieties of animals and 62 varieties of birds. The zoo authorities take several measures to ensure that the animal enclosures closely resemble their natural habitats.
The tiger safari at Ludhiana and the deer park on the Neelon-Ludhiana highway are also popular tourist haunts. A glimpse of Punjab's diverse heritage can be obtained by a mere stopover at one or all of the following sanctuaries:
Hari-ke-pattan, Amritsar
The colorful and exuberant state of Punjab abounds in tradition, history, folklore, grandeur, architectural splendor as well as panoramic natural beauty. Among the various parks and sanctuaries in Punjab, the Hari-ke-pattan, Amritsar, National Wetland & Wildlife Sanctuary deserves special mention.
Punjab is noted for a multitude of reasons. The state with its rambling meadows also possesses a diverse natural heritage that is evinced by its numerous wetlands, bird reserves as well as menageries. Tourists have plenty of options ranging from the scintillating Lion Safari at the Chhatbir Zoo to kayaking in the waters of the Sutlej Wetlands or bird watching at Hari Ke Pattan.
Hari-ke-pattan, Amritsar, National Wetland & Wildlife Sanctuary is one of Punjab's eminent wetlands and bird reserves. The oasis of idyllic green is situated near the districts of Harike, Amritsar, Kapurthala and Ferozepur and hence is flooded with local citizens as well as tourists.
Kanjli Wetland, Kapurtala
Punjab, the hot seat of India's cultural extravaganzas abounds in scenic beauty. Apart from the panoramic rhapsodies manifested by its picturesque landscape, the state also boasts of a diverse natural heritage. Kanjli Wetland, Kapurtala is a perfect example of the state's opulent natural resources.
Kanjli Wetland came into being owing to the generous patronage of the Maharaja of Kapurthala. The erstwhile potentate had constructed a sparkling sylvan lake after building a barrage on the river Kali Bein. Many of Punjab's streaming rivers, rivulets and their tributaries discharge their water to the mighty Kali Bein, which subsequently flows to the tranquil lake. The lake gleaming under the saffron sunbeams like a mirage of quicksilver paints a charming picture of nature at its best.
On the leftmost extremity of the lake rests a dense forest that shelters several species of wildlife in its dark wilderness. The Maharaja, an ardent lover of nature had built his jungle retreat on the banks of the lake, based on splendid French architecture and lovingly named it The Villa. The royal successors of the Maharaja currently reside in The Villa that overlooks a breathtaking backdrop.
Satluj Water Body Wetland, Ropar
One of Punjab's prized possessions is its assorted flora and varieties of wildlife. The Satluj Water Body Wetland, Ropar is endowed with a reserve that shelters a large variety of animals and birds. The wildlife sanctuary also has recreational facilities provided through ample options of water sports for the adventure enthusiasts like angling, kayaking, canoeing, boating and long distance swimming.
Satluj Water Body Wetland at Ropar is dreams come true for birdwatchers and ornithologists alike. The bird reserve is one of a kind in the country and owes its nomenclature to a nearby village having the same name. Set in a stunning backdrop it houses several species of resident as well as migratory birds.
The picturesque reserve's stunning beauty is accentuated by the presence of a 30 km wide crystal clear lake that gleams in the slanting sunlight like a jewel in a brass setting. The melodious twitters of the variegated species of birds that form the sanctuary's pride of place occasionally break the tranquil quietude of the oasis of idyllic green.
Last Updated on : 05 April 2013
