Soor Sarovar Bird Sanctuary Agra (Timings, History, Entry Fee, Images, Built by & Information)

Soor Sarovar Bird Sanctuary Agra Entrance Fee

Catagery	Indian [INR]	Foreigners [INR]
Still camera, digital/ non-digital / small movie camera / handycam	500/-	1000/-
Digital/ Movie camera	5000/-	10000/-
Scooter, Motor – Cycle	20/-	20/-
Car,Jeep [Light Vehicles]	100/-	100/-
Tourist bus	200/-	200/-
Forest Rest House (per suite/ per day)	300/-	900/-

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Soor Sarovar Bird Sanctuary (also referred to as Keetham Bird Sanctuary) is a lesser-known but captivating tourist destination near Agra. It’s home to over 160 migratory and resident birds. Far from the hustle and bustle of the city, it’s an immersive nature retreat.

The sanctuary is built around the beautiful Keetham Lake. It’s a proposed Ramsar site that forms the heart of this biodiversity hotspot.

Keetham Lake Sanctuary is a paradise for birdwatchers and nature lovers alike. It’s a delightful escape into a colourful world of birds. The sanctuary also houses over 300 pythons and scores of aquatic plant species.

The verdant forest surrounding the lake and the man-made islands also add to its beauty. For those interested in bird photography, it’s refreshing to visit Sur Sarovar Sanctuary and Lake. The place also has a bear rescue centre.

This forest reserve was declared a wildlife sanctuary in 1991. And the lake was renamed Soor Sarovar after the blind Hindu devotional poet Surdas who’s said to have lived in this region.

Where is Soor Sarovar Bird Sanctuary?

Soor Sarovar Bird Sanctuary is situated on the way to Mathura. After visiting the tourist attractions of Agra, you can plan a visit to the bird sanctuary. It’s 19 km away from the city. If you love a ride through the jungle, this is the place to be. You can drive your car/bike into the sanctuary until the thick forests, where the road tapers to a walking trail.

Image Gallery of Soor Sarovar Bird Sanctuary Agra

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Things to do at Soor Sarovar Bird Sanctuary

1. Watching exotic birds – With over 160 species of migratory and native birds, Sur Sarovar Bird Sanctuary Agra is a haven for bird watchers. The lake and the islands serve as shelter grounds for numerous species like Gray Herons, Cormorants, Bar-headed Goose, Spot Billed Ducks and others. Whether you’re an ornithologist or a nature lover, the sheer variety of birds here will leave you spellbound.

2. Go for animal sightings – Apart from the rich birdlife, the bird sanctuary also offers a close view of other wildlife species like monkeys and deer. Python sightings are also common. The sanctuary boasts a population of around 300 pythons.

3. Boating on Keetham Lake – The pentagon-shaped Keetham Lake occupies a significant portion of the sanctuary. It’s surrounded by lush greenery, and you can embark on a serene boat ride basking in the sounds of chirping birds. However, you must take permission from the authorities before boating.

4. Enjoying a nature trip – You can ride your own vehicle inside, in the buffer zone of Sur Sarovar Wildlife Sanctuary. It's an ideal place for nature lovers to soak the lush landscapes full of freshwater wetlands and dense greenery. You can also enjoy a view of River Yamuna in the sanctuary.

5. Having a picnic – The lush greenery, beautiful lake, and the gentle calls of birds create a perfect setup for a relaxing picnic. You can spend some quality time together with friends and family members. The sanctuary also has a small garden with swings for kids to enjoy and have their share of fun.

6. Visiting the bear park – Another point of interest in Sur Sarovar Bird Sanctuary is the bear rescue centre. Also known as Keetham Bear Park, this rescue centre shelters more than 300 dancing bears. And it’s considered to be the world’s largest single-bear sanctuary. It offers unique insights into the life of these magnificent creatures.

Soor Sarovar Bird Sanctuary Timings and Entry Fees

The sanctuary is open daily from 8 AM to 6 AM throughout the year. For the best experience, visit it in the winter months (between November and February). Most migratory birds visit the place during that time. It takes only about 2 hours to explore Soor Sarovar Bird Sanctuary.

Soor Sarovar Bird Sanctuary ticket price is ₹30 per person for Indians and ₹350 per person for foreigners. An extra fee for taking your bike, scooter or car is applicable. Still cameras and video cameras are also charged extra.

Things to keep in mind when visiting Soor Sarovar Bird Sanctuary

• Plan your visit during the migratory season.
• Avoid wearing bright clothes.
• Pack food and water for your visit.
• Carry binoculars.
• Beware of monkeys.
• Stick to the marked pathways.
• Walking and tracking are strictly prohibited.
• Secure permission beforehand for boating.

How to reach Soor Sarovar Bird Sanctuary?

Soor Sarovar Bird Sanctuary Agra is on the way to Mathura. It’s 18 km from Idgah bus stand, 19 km from Agra Cantt railway station, and 20 km from Agra airport. The international airport nearest the sanctuary is in Delhi (about 200 km away).

Now, here is how to reach Soor Sarovar Bird Sanctuary –

By bus – Buses are available from Agra to take you to the sanctuary. You can take a bus going towards Mathura/Vrindavan and get off on the highway near the Sur Sarovar entrance.

By auto/e-rickshaw – You can also take an auto-rickshaw to the bird sanctuary. They’re easily available from all parts of Agra.

By cab/taxi – The best and most comfortable way to get to Soor Sarovar Bird Sanctuary Agra is by taking a cab or taxi. You can book one for the day from the top car rental companies in Agra conveniently.

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Location Map for Soor Sarovar Bird Sanctuary Agra