The star attraction is undoubtedly the Greater Flamingo. Arriving in thousands, these elegant birds paint the backwaters of the Ujani Dam in shades of pink. But it’s not just about the flamingos; the wetland is a riot of biodiversity. From the majestic Great Thick-knee to the vibrant Kingfishers and majestic raptors like the Pallid Harrier, Bhigwan offers a front-row seat to nature's grand theater. The best time to visit? January and February, when the mist over the water adds a mystical quality to every photograph.
Bhigwan is located approximately 120–135 km from Pune on the Solapur highway. Tripadvisor
If you let me know when you'd like to visit, I can help you find: The best local boatman contacts. Recommendations for nearby, comfortable accommodation. A list of specialized photography gear you might need. The Guide: The Backwater of Bhigwan - Roundglass Sustain bhigwan birds upd
Besides flamingos, the sanctuary hosts a rich diversity of birds, including:
The wetlands of Bhigwan offer opportunities to observe a rich diversity of birdlife. The star attraction is undoubtedly the Greater Flamingo
across the Ujani Dam backwaters have triggered an unprecedented surge in avian nesting and breeding activity. Often called the "Mini Bharatpur" of Western India, the wetlands around Bhigwan—located roughly 105 kilometers from Pune—are witnessing dramatic transformations in bird behavior, driven by fluctuating monsoon cycles and a major new government eco-restoration initiative.
: Naturalists at major hubs like Kumbhargaon report intense breeding and nesting behavior among resident and late-staying species. From the majestic Great Thick-knee to the vibrant
Bhigwan Bird Sanctuary – Seasonal Migration Update Location: Bhigwan, Pune District, Maharashtra, India (Backwaters of Ujani Dam) Reporting Period: Winter Season (Oct – Mar)
And the birdwatcher, the guide, the retired professor, the poacher’s child—they will all look at the same sky, at the same V-shaped formation cutting across the brown haze, and for one irrational moment, believe that an “upd” can still mean hope .
Boat safaris (approx. 1.5–2 hours), photography, and grassland trails.