River Saraswati and Gujarat: Nal Sarovar and River Saraswati

Nal Sarovar is the original remnant of River Saraswati flowing from the Himalayas to Gujarat.

Sunrise at Nal Sarovar

Nal Sarovar could be a relic of the River Saraswati which might have flowed through the funnel of the Little Rann of Kutch into Saurashtra. There are about 100 archaeological sites around this Sarovar region. The shortest riverine route between Dholavira, Surkotada and Lothal could have been through a possible ancient river course which existed through the Nal Sarovar.

Flamingos enjoying the hospitality of Gujarat

Nal Sarovar Bird Sanctuary is a charming tourist attraction which people should not miss while on a pleasure trip to Ahmedabad. Nal Sarovar is 62 km to the West of Ahmedabad, in the state of Gujarat, India. Nal Sarovar is a delightful bird sanctuary. It is principally is a huge lake with a relaxing atmosphere amongst the marshes. It is inhabited by over two lakh migratory birds from Siberia in winters; it is the largest wetland bird sanctuary in Gujarat, and one of the largest in India.

White winged ducks at Nal Sarovar

Nal Sarovar is 18 miles long and 4 miles wide and measuring 75 square miles. The lake is shallow and its depth does not exceed 2 meters any where in the lake. There are around 300 Islands situated in the lake. Panvad is the biggest Island.

Our guests in a playful mood

Nal Sarovar attracts over 250 species of birds in the winter. It harbors a variety of flora and fauna. Thousands of migratory waterfowl flock to this sanctuary just after monsoon. Greater flamingoes migrate here from Kutch every year and one can find tall standing birds like painted and black-necked storks. The shallow area and ponds on the outer reaches of the lake attract the wading birds that feed in the shallow waters. Its migratory bird population, which visit Nal Sarovar between November and February include Rosy Pelicans, Flamingoes, White Storks, Brahmany Ducks and Herons. Ducks, geese, pelicans and flamingos are best seen early in the morning and in the evening. Nal Sarovar probably is a fantasy land for birds! It is estimated that over two lakh migratory birds from Siberia make Nal Sarovar their home every winter

Gulls at Nal Sarovar

Besides a few mammalian species including the endangered wild ass and the blackbucks also reside here.

Our guests in a holiday mood!

The islands within the lake are populated by migrating Bharwad shepherds. On the banks are the Padhars, who are excellent folk dancers, artisans and boatmen. One can hire country boats on the lake for bird viewing, and picnic at shacks the on the islands. It is best to make the trip to Nal Sarovar in your own or private hired vehicle. Eight routes have been fixed where bird watchers can spend one to six hours.

Come again next year - Phudchya Varshi Lavkar Yaa!!!

Nal Sarovar Bird Sanctuary offers opportunities to visitors to spend some quality time in the lap of Mother Nature. Its beauty and tranquility is surely going to steal your heart.