Rishikesh’s Best-Kept Secret for Birding and Wildlife Enthusiasts
Nestled in the pristine Himalayan foothills of Uttarakhand, the Sindhudi–Kumartha Biosphere in Mohanchatti near Rishikesh is fast emerging as one of the best birding destinations in North India.
Set against the lush buffer forests of Rajaji Tiger Reserve and spread along the tranquil banks of the Hyule River, a tributary of the sacred River Ganga, Sindhudi - Kumartha offers a rare convergence of geography, biodiversity, and conservation-led tourism.
For birders, wildlife photographers, and nature lovers from around the world, this region represents a new benchmark for bird watching in India.
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For bird photographers, the area offers exceptional opportunities for low-disturbance, close-range photography, enhanced by the natural lighting of river corridors and forest clearings.
A major milestone for bird conservation and responsible tourism in Uttarakhand is the establishment of the Garhwal region’s first Bird Hide in one of the sustainable retreats at Sindhudi. This thoughtfully designed structure allows first-time bird watchers and seasoned birders alike to observe birds in their natural habitat without disturbing their behaviour.
The Bird Hide has become a powerful tool for education, conservation awareness, and ethical wildlife viewing-setting a standard for sustainable bird tourism not just near Rishikesh, but across India.
Sindhudi-Kumarta has quickly gained recognition as a premier birding hotspot near Rishikesh, hosting hundreds of endemic and migratory bird species throughout the year. Its diverse habitats-riverine forests, Himalayan foothill vegetation, dense woodlands, and open forest edges-create ideal conditions for both resident and seasonal birds.
Among the many highlights are sightings of rare and sought-after species, including:
What truly sets Sindhudi–Kumartha apart as the best birding opportunity in India is its commitment to sustainability and coexistence. Over the past few years, eco-conscious resorts and campsites in the region have come together to create a conservation-driven tourism model that balances livelihood, ecology, and education.
Key initiatives include:
A standout effort is the not-for-profit initiative “Birdy Baat”, a one-of-its-kind program dedicated to training local youth in bird identification, bird guiding, and conservation practices. By empowering local communities, Birdy Baat ensures that conservation is not just imposed-but lived and sustained.
Stay Option: You can stay at Aranyam Rishikesh (www.aranyam.in)
Located in the Mohanchatti area of Pauri Garhwal district, this remarkable landscape lies less than 18 kilometres from Rishikesh city centre and only 15 kilometres from Tapovan, making it uniquely accessible while remaining untouched and wild.
Bird Watching Near Rishikesh with Easy Access
Unlike many remote birding destinations in India, Sindhudi–Kumartha enjoys excellent connectivity. International travellers visiting Rishikesh for yoga, wellness, or adventure tourism can now combine their journey with world-class bird watching and wildlife experiences-without long travel times.
Its proximity to Haridwar, Rishikesh and Dehradun airport makes it an ideal add-on for:
A Rising Star in Global Birding Circuits
Today, Sindhudi-Kumartha attracts eco-conscious travellers, birders, ornithologists, and wildlife photographers from across the globe. With its rare species diversity, responsible tourism framework, and breath taking Himalayan setting, it has rightfully earned its place among the most promising birding destinations in North India.
As global interest in sustainable travel and wildlife conservation grows, Sindhudi–Kumartha stands as a powerful example of how Rishikesh’s natural heritage can be preserved while offering unforgettable birding and wildlife experiences.
For anyone seeking authentic bird watching in India, away from crowds yet close to civilization, Sindhudi–Kumartha area is no longer a hidden gem-it is the future of birding near Rishikesh.
Sindhudi Kumartha Biosphere is popular place for following activities/ interests - Bird Watching.
