Harike Wetland & Bird Sanctuary

Harike Wetland and Bird Sanctuary, Amritsar Overview

Considered to be the largest man-made wetland in northern India, Harike Wetland, also known as ‘Hari - ke - Pattan’ is situated on the border of Tarn Taran Sahib district. Sprawling over 4100 hectares of land area, the wetland is spread over Amritsar, Kapurthala and Ferozepur in Punjab. The highlight of the wetland is the gorgeous lake called the Harike Lake, that is situated in the heart of the region and that draws a large number of tourists to the place. There is also a bird sanctuary in the wetland that is known to attract hordes of birdwatchers and nature lovers.

Constructed in 1952, the wetland actually came to exist when a barrage was built at the confluence of rivers Beas and Sutlej. Boasting of a rich biodiversity, the park is considered a haven for birdwatchers as the wetland is home to a large number of exotic and endangered migratory birds who come here during the winter season. Till date, around 375 species of birds have been recorded here. Among the most popular wildlife include birds like crested pochard, common pochard and tufted duck, reptilian fauna like Indus river dolphin, smooth-coated otter and seven species of rare freshwater turtles, and mammals like Indian otter, the jungle cat, jackal, Indian wild boar and the common mongoose etc. The wetland was declared a sanctuary in 1982 and also a Ramsar site by the International Body of Wetlands under the UNDP in 1990. You are expected to take prior permission from forest officials for entry.

1. Migratory Birds

Harike Wetland is renowned for its rich avian biodiversity, attracting approximately 200 bird species annually, especially during the winter. These migratory birds, hailing from distant locations like (Read More) the Arctic and Siberia, include notable species such as cotton pygmy goose, tufted duck, Pallas's gull, brown-headed gull, and Indian skimmer. During the peak season, the wetland hosts around 45,000 ducks, creating a haven for bird enthusiasts and ornithologists alike.

2. Wildlife at Harike Wetland

Harike Wetland is renowned for its diverse wildlife, hosting a variety of birds, amphibians, turtles, snakes, fish, and invertebrates. The sanctuary boasts seven species of turtles and 26 species of f (Read More)ish, including the testudines turtles, smooth Indian otter, and various fish breeds like catla, channa, rohu, and cyprinus. Notably, the sanctuary played a crucial role in rediscovering the supposedly extinct Indus dolphin. Terrestrial animals like Indian wild boar, common jackal, jungle cat, and mongoose also inhabit the area. The wetland is adorned with lush greenery, featuring diverse plant and tree species.