As a landscape photographer, I’m always drawn to capturing the beauty of nature through my lens.
Recently, I yearned to explore a new genre of photography – bird photography.
Now, to start bird photography, I need to find migratory birds’ locations.
So, I started searching for the perfect location near my hometown, Ghatshila.
After searching for an hour online, I found this place known as Purbasthali Bird Sanctuary. It is also known as Purbasthali Pakhiralay or chupi kasthashali pakhiralay.
Join me as I take you on a captivating journey through the lush landscapes and hidden treasures of the Purbasthali Bird Sanctuary.
Table of Contents
Where is the Purbasthali bird sanctuary?
Purbasthali Bird Sanctuary is one of the most popular bird sanctuaries in West Bengal, India.
It is in the Purbasthali II CD Block of the Purba Bardhaman district of West Bengal.
Purbasthali Pakhiralay is approximately 128 kilometres from the capital city of West Bengal, Kolkata. Thus, making it an ideal weekend destination spot for Kolkata people.
It is well-connected to many well-known places in West Bengal.
For example, it is just a distance of 35 kilometres from the town of Katwa.
The bird sanctuary is just 25 kilometres far-off from the town of Mayapur. And in case you did not know, Mayapur is the headquarters of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON).
And, Purbasthali is just a distance of 14 kilometres from the town of Nabadwip. And again, in case you did not know, Nabadwip is the birthplace of Sri Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu, a famous saint and social reformer.
It is on the banks of the holy river Ganges.
The bird sanctuary is home to various exotic birds, including several migratory birds coming during the winter.
Dense vegetation and lush wooded forests surround the area. Therefore, making it a paradise for bird watchers and photographers.
What is Oxbow Lake – Chupi Char?
Chupi Char is a riverine oxbow lake within the Purbasthali Gangetic isle complex.
It is on the meandering course of the River Bhagirathi-Hooghly, a distributary of the River Ganges.
A cluster of small islands surrounds the large Oxbow Lake. These small islands are formed because of sedimentation by the low channel of water.
These islands comprise mustard fields and paddy fields that local villagers cultivate. Thus, Chupi Char provides a perfect habitat for birds to flourish.
The Oxbow Lake has a thin connectivity with the main course of river Ganga.
The area has transformed into a closed loop over the last 40 years, allowing the emergence of an 8 km long oxbow lake.
It is a popular destination for bird enthusiasts because of the diverse range of large and small bird species found in the area.
The oxbow lake, Chupi Char, is a unique place for bird watching and photographing thousands of migratory birds in their natural environment.
Bird Watching – Local and Migratory Bird Species Found in Purbasthali Pakhiralay:
Purbasthali oxbow lake, Chupi Char location, is a paradise for bird-watchers in the Burdwan district of West Bengal. It offers a unique and diverse opportunity to observe variety of birds in their natural habitat.
With the crystal clear water of the lake, it offers a serene and pristine environment for birds and visitors.
Please note that to get a closer look at the birds, I recommend you hire a boat with a trained boatman who can take you to the Oxbow Lake’s bird hotspots.
You can have a more immersive and fulfilling bird watching experience with their (guide-cum-boatman) expertise.
One of the most commonly observed bird species in Purbasthali is the White Breasted Kingfisher. It is a striking bird with a white belly, blue wings, and a red beak. You often find these birds perched on a branch overlooking the water, waiting for their prey to swim by.
People can see large numbers of Cormorants here. These birds have distinctive long necks and dark feathers. You will often see it drying its wings in the sun after a dive. These birds are excellent swimmers and divers. You can spot these birds on the river’s banks or in the water.
The Bronze Winged Jacana is a bird species adapted to aquatic environments. It has a striking appearance, with its metallic green wings and bronze-coloured body. It has long, slender legs enable it to walk on water lilies and other floating vegetation.
The Purple Swamphen is another bird species frequently seen in the wetlands of Purbasthali. This bird has bright purple feathers and a red beak. The Purple Swamphen is a large, brightly coloured bird. You can often find these birds wading through the water, searching for food.
The Pond Heron is another species of bird commonly spotted in Purbasthali. It has a distinctive white and brown striped neck and a long, pointed beak. You often find these birds perched on the branches of trees or wading in shallow water, searching for small fish and insects.
The Wood Sandpipers is a migratory bird found here during the winters. It has a striking appearance with its spotted wings and long, thin beaks. These birds have long, thin beaks to probe the mud for food.
The Lesser Whistling Duck is a bird species often seen in large flocks in Purbasthali. It is a small, elegant bird. It has a distinctive call that sounds like a whistle, hence its name. They are migratory birds and come to Purbasthali during winter.
The Common Coot is another waterbird that is frequently seen in the sanctuary. They are easily recognizable by black feathers and a white beak. You often see these birds diving into the water for food.
The Common Kingfisher is a small, brightly coloured bird with a distinctive turquoise back and orange underparts. You often see it diving into the water to catch small fish.
The Open-Billed Stork is a gigantic bird with a unique bill split in the middle. You often see it wading in the shallow waters, searching for food.
The Great Egret is a large, majestic bird with long white feathers and a yellow beak. You often see it wading in the shallow water, searching for fish and small prey.
The Pheasant Tailed Jacana is a unique bird species that are well adapted to living in marshy environments. It has a distinctive tail that resembles a pheasant’s seat and has long toes, enabling them to walk on floating vegetation.
The White Wagtail is another bird species commonly seen in Purbasthali. It is a small bird identified by its distinct black-and-white pattern on its feathers and long tail.
People can see the Black Headed Ibis in Purbasthali. These birds have distinct blackheads and long, curved beaks. You often found it wading in shallow water, searching for small fish and insects.
Purbasthali is home to the Pratincole bird species. It has long legs and a distinctive black-and-white striped neck. These birds are ground dwellers. You can see them foraging for food in the grasslands.
During the winter, there are a lot of pochards at the oxbow lake. But, the Red-crested pochards stand out among the many pochard species for their bright red bills and rushed colored heads. With their presence, the sanctuary became an oasis of colorful diversity. It creates a captivating spectacle for bird enthusiasts and nature photography enthusiasts alike.
The Common Pochard, a medium-sized diving duck, is one of the many species in the Purbasthali Pakhiralay. With its distinctive red head and grey body, this beautiful bird is a sight for any bird watcher visiting the sanctuary. Common pochards are like Red Crested Pochards but with a black bill. Male Red Crested Pochards are often confused with Common Pochards as both have rushed colored heads.
The Rudy Shelduck is a migratory bird visiting Purbasthali during winter. It is a beautiful bird with orange-brown feathers and a white head. You often see it swimming in the water or walking on the shoreline. These birds have distinct red beaks and feet.
Finally, you also often see Ospreys soaring high in the sky. They have distinctive white heads and brown feathers.
The Oxbow Lake offers a unique and unforgettable bird watching experience for bird enthusiasts of all levels.
Whether you are a seasoned bird-watcher or a beginner, Purbasthali Pakhiralay is a must-visit destination that offers a chance to witness large variety of migratory birds.
So pack your binoculars and head to Purbasthali for an unforgettable bird watching adventure!
Photography in Oxbow Lake–Chupi Char:
Chupi Char is one of the best Oxbow Lakes in India. The lakeside is home to several species of birds. It is a paradise for bird photographers.
The best time to take pictures of these beautiful birds in their natural habitat is early morning or late afternoon, when the light is just right for photography.
One of the best things about bird photography in Purbasthali is that the birds are relatively easy to spot and photograph.
The natural habitats in the region are well-preserved. In this Oxbow lake, the birds are not overly shy or skittish. So it is easier to get up close and capture stunning shots of the birds in their natural surroundings.
As an amateur bird photographer, I was lucky to find a local guide cum boatman, Mr Joyanto. He was familiar with the birding hotspots and their inhabitants.
Mr Joyanto was incredibly knowledgeable and helped me identify various species I might have missed. He also knew the best vantage points and the ideal times of day to capture certain bird behaviours, such as feeding or mating rituals.
Another wonderful thing about bird photography in Purbasthali is the sense of community among birders and photographers. It was heartening to see so many people who shared a common passion for birds and wildlife, and it made the entire experience even more rewarding. I met several other enthusiasts during my trip, and we shared tips and insights about our experiences.
Overall, my bird photography experience in Purbasthali was a truly unforgettable one. The natural beauty of the region, combined with the incredible diversity of migratory bird species, made for an enriching and fulfilling adventure. I came away with some stunning photographs and memories that will last a lifetime, and I can’t wait to return to this magical place again.
Tips and Suggestions for a Successful Boat Trip and Bird Photography:
Regarding bird photography in Purbasthali Bird Sanctuary, some tips and techniques can enhance your chances of capturing stunning images.
Foremost, a quality camera and lens are essential.
Experts suggest using a crop-sensor camera. It offers extra reach compared to full-frame cameras. For example, a 300mm focal length lens on a crop-sensor camera body will give you a 450mm focal length of reach. Therefore, it lets you get closer to your subjects without disturbing them.
However, if you have a full-frame camera with a high megapixel count, say over 45 MP. Then, you can switch to crop mode, like DX Mode in Nikon’s full-frame Cameras. It will help you get the same reach as the crop sensor camera body without sacrificing image quality.
It is obvious in Oxbow Lake that you will take photos of birds from a boat. So, it is important to use a fast shutter speed to compensate for any boat movement.
I recommend you use a shutter speed of at least 1/1000 second to freeze the motion of the birds. It will also reduce any blurring caused by the boat’s movement.
I always used a shutter speed above 1/1250 second. I took 311 images of birds in Chupi Char, the oxbow lake. Out of these 311 images, I shot about 217 on 1/1600 and 1/1800 shutter speeds.
You can use your camera’s shutter priority mode if you are an amateur bird photographer like me. Set your shutter speed to 1/1800 second and let your camera decide on ISO and aperture. Trust me; you can’t go wrong with 1/1800 shutter speed at shutter priority mode, anyway. Believe me; most of your images will be sharp with no blurs. Later, you will thank me for this tip.
Using a tripod or monopod can also help to steady your camera and get sharper images.
Lastly, practising patience and waiting for the right moment to capture a bird’s behaviour or movement is important.
Respecting the birds’ habitats and avoiding disturbing them is also necessary.
Using these tips and techniques, you can capture stunning bird photographs in Purbasthali Pakhiralay that showcase the beauty and diversity of the avian species in the region.
Other Activities and Attractions in Purbasthali:
Apart from birdwatching and photography, Purbasthali is also steeped in history and religion.
Purbasthali offers a range of other activities and attractions for visitors to explore.
Here are some of the must-visit places and things to do in Purbasthali:
Visit the Temples:
Purbasthali is also known for its beautiful temples and ruins, some dating back several centuries.
The most famous is the Purbasthali Kali Temple, dedicated to the Hindu goddess Kali.
The temple is located on the banks of the Ganges and is an important pilgrimage site for Hindus.
Other temples worth visiting include the Radha Gobinda Temple, the Nidaya Kalibari Temple, and the Shyam Sundar Temple.
Explore the Surrounding Villages:
The villages surrounding Purbasthali offer a glimpse into rural Bengal and its way of life.
You can walk through the fields and observe the locals engaging in traditional agricultural practices.
You can also visit the local markets and try some of the fresh produce grown in the area.
Take a Boat Ride on the Ganges:
The Ganges River runs through Purbasthali.
A boat ride on the river is a must-do activity. You can hire a boat beside the lake. Then, explore the river’s banks, spotting various bird species and enjoying the peaceful scenery.
Go Fishing:
Fishing is a popular activity in Purbasthali’s Oxbow Lake.
The Pakhiralay Guesthouse can arrange a fishing trip for you. They will also guide you in both net fishing and rod fishing activities. You can fish for various freshwater fish species, including Rohu, Catla, and Mrigal.
Attend Local Festivals:
Purbasthali hosts various festivals throughout the year. Attending these can be a great way to experience the local culture. The most famous is the Kali Puja, celebrated in October-November and a major local event.
Visit the place to explore various attractions, including ancient temples, traditional villages, unique wildlife, and exciting festivals.
Plan your itinerary to make the most of your trip to this beautiful location.
Detailed Itinerary for a 2-Day Trip to Purbasthali:
In case if you are interested to know how I planned my tour to Purbasthali Bird Sanctuary, then here’s my more detailed itinerary for a 2-day trip to Purbasthali Pakhiralay for bird photography:
Day 1:
10:00 AM: Arrival in Purbasthali.
Upon arrival in Purbasthali, check in to your hotel room by 11:00 AM. After checking in, take some time to get refreshed in your room and head to the hotel restaurant for lunch around 1 PM.
1:00 PM: Lunch
After lunch, head back to your room and rest for 2 hours to help your body and mind relax after the journey.
4:00 PM: Bird Photography
At around 4 PM, leave your hotel room and go to the oxbow lake called Chupi Char. Hire a boat with a trained boatman and ask him to take you to the best spots for bird photography. Spend the next 2 hours snapping bird images at the lake before returning to your hotel room by 6-7 PM.
7:00 PM: Evening Supper
Once you return to the hotel, have your evening supper provided by the hotel as a complementary service.
8:00 PM: Image Selection and Review
After supper:
- Return to your room and transfer all your images from your camera’s memory card to your system.
- Recheck the images on various factors, such as how many images are out of focus or in focus, what mistakes you have made, what birds you couldn’t capture, etc.
- Note these factors down as you need to remember them for future reference.
9:30 PM: Dinner
Next, return to the hotel restaurant for your dinner by 9:30 PM. After dinner, head back to the hotel room and get to sleep. It would be best if you got up early tomorrow morning. So, set the alarm for around 5:00 AM.
Day 2:
5:00 AM: Wake-Up and Breakfast
The next day, wake up around 5:00 AM with your alarm and get ready within 30-45 minutes. Take the breakfast packet from the hotel caretaker and reach oxbow lake by 6:00 AM.
6:00 AM: Bird Photography
Beside the lake, you will find many boatmen. Hire a boat with a trained guide cum boatman and ask him to take you to the local Amazon site for bird photography. You will cover the “Amazon bird hotspots” in about 6 hours. It is a great opportunity to capture some stunning images of the local birds.
12:00 PM: Lunch and Nap
After completing your bird photography session, return to your hotel room by noon. Follow the same routine as yesterday by having lunch and taking a nap.
4:00 PM: Sightseeing
Around 4:00 PM, you can leave your hotel and visit nearby places like the riverbank of Ganga, local village markets, temples, etc. It is a great opportunity to explore the local area and capture candid shots of people and their way of life.
6:00 PM: Return to Hotel
Come back to the hotel by 6-7 PM and have your supper.
8:00 PM: Image Review and Selection
Once again, transfer all your bird photography images from your camera’s memory card to your system. Scrutinize the images for quality and any other aspects that must be taken care of.
9:30 PM: Dinner
Have your dinner by 9:30 PM, and get back to your room for a tight sleep.
Day 3:
8:00 AM: Breakfast and Departure
Get up by 8:00 AM, get fresh, and have breakfast at the hotel restaurant.
Finally, leave for your hometown with beautiful memories and stunning bird photography images captured during your 2-day trip to Purbasthali.
Best Time to Visit Purbasthali Pakhiralay:
Purbasthali Bird Sanctuary is a paradise for bird photography, especially during the winter months of November to February.
During winter, it fills the wetlands of the sanctuary with various species of migratory birds.
The weather during these months is pleasant, with clear blue skies and cool temperatures, making it ideal for spending long hours outdoors.
The water levels are usually low during this time, concentrating the birds in specific areas, making them easier to spot and photograph.
The sanctuary is also home to many resident bird species, making it a suitable destination for birdwatching and photography throughout the year.
However, during the monsoon, the lake is full of water. So, except for a few large bird species, no other birds come to the area near the lake. Therefore, it becomes difficult for bird watchers and photographers to find birds.
It is advisable to check the weather forecast before planning your trip, as heavy rainfall may affect your bird watching or photography sessions.
How to reach Purbasthali Bird Sanctuary?
Here are the ways to reach Purbasthali Bird Sanctuary (Purbasthali Pakhiralay):
By Road:
Purbasthali is well-connected to nearby cities like Kolkata and Bardhaman by road.
National Highway 19 (NH-19) passes through Purbasthali, making it easily accessible by car or bus.
It takes about 3 hours to reach Purbasthali from Kolkata by road.
By Rail:
The nearest railway station is the Purbasthali Railway Station, a small railway station on the Bandel-Katwa line.
Trains from Howrah Junction (Kolkata) and Burdwan Junction (Bardhaman) stop at this station.
You can hire a taxi or auto-rickshaw from the railway station to reach your accommodation.
By Air:
The nearest airport to Purbasthali is Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport in Kolkata, about 128 km away.
You can hire a taxi or bus from the airport to reach Purbasthali.
By Bus:
Regular bus services are available from Kolkata and nearby cities to Purbasthali. You can take a bus from Esplanade or Garia Bus Stand in Kolkata to the Purbasthali Bus Stand. You can hire a taxi, auto-rickshaw, or toto from the bus stand to reach your Purbasthali accommodation.
Overall, Purbasthali is easily accessible by road, rail, and air. Multiple options are available for travellers to reach their exact location.
Purbasthali Accommodation Options Near Purbasthali Bird Sanctuary:
You can choose from two guesthouses near the oxbow lake Chupi Char for your stay in Purbasthali.
- Purbasthali Pakhiralay Guest House: It consists of cottage system rooms. BDO of Purbasthali is in charge of the maintenance of the property.
- Chupi Pakhiralay Guest House: It is a private guest house.
Both options provide comfortable accommodations. Both are conveniently located near Purbasthali Bird Sanctuary. Thus, allowing easy access to bird watching and photography opportunities.
Note: Apart from the above 2 guest houses, many more hotels are located near Purbasthali railway station.
During my visit to Purbasthali, I stayed at the Purbasthali Pakhiralaya Cottage Guesthouse.
The Cottage Guesthouse was an amazing place to stay.
The guesthouse is in a beautiful spot next to Chupi Char Lake. Lush greenery, a mango orchard, and a serene landscaped park surround it.
As I entered the guesthouse, the staff greeted me with a warm smile, making me feel welcomed and comfortable.
The guesthouse has different rooms (cottages) that range from deluxe to standard, depending on your budget and needs.
I chose a deluxe room, which was spacious and well-maintained.
It had modern amenities like air conditioning, an attached western bathroom with a geyser for hot water, and comfortable beds.
Large windows in the cottage room gave a beautiful view of the landscape outside. And the soft breeze that came through the windows added to the room’s overall charm and peace.
The Purbasthali Pakhiralay Guesthouse also has a restaurant that serves delicious Bengali cuisine.
The cottage staffs were helpful. But to my surprise, they also knew about the birds and their habitats.
When I stayed at the Pakhiralay Guesthouse in Purbasthali, I met Mr Abhijeet, who is in charge there. He gave me excellent advice regarding bird watching and photography. Mr Abhijeet guided me with the best time to go on a boat trip and the locations to spot different birds in Chupi Char. He also gave me tips on seeing as much of the lake as possible on just 2 boat trips. Thanks to his suggestions, I got some amazing photos and had an unforgettable experience. Mr Abhijeet is a true gentleman and a valuable resource for anyone visiting Purbasthali.
The guide-cum-boatman, Mr Joyanto Pramanik, was a wealth of information. He showed me some of the most stunning and elusive bird species I wouldn’t have been able to find on my own.
The guesthouse offers comfortable accommodations, delicious food, and a peaceful ambience. It is the perfect place to relax and unwind after a day of bird photography or bird watching.
The Guesthouse staffs are friendly. The Pakhiralay Guesthouse’s location is convenient and ideal for birders and nature enthusiasts.
Budgeting Your 2-Day Trip to Purbasthali: Guesthouse and Boatman Costs
Here’s a sample budget for a 2-day trip to Purbasthali:
Day 1:
- Accommodation (non-AC room): Rs. 1495 x 2 = Rs. 2990
- Boat trip with trained boatman (3 hours): Rs. 150 x 3 = Rs. 450
- Food expenses: Rs. 500
Total expenses on Day 1: Rs. 3940/-
Day 2:
- Accommodation (non-AC room): Rs. 1495 x 2 = Rs. 2990
- Boat trip with trained boatman (6 hours): Rs. 150 x 6 = Rs. 900
- Food expenses: Rs. 500
Total expenses on Day 2: Rs. 3940/-
Therefore, total expenses for 2 days: Rs. 7880/-
Note: If you opt for an AC room, the accommodation cost would be Rs. 1595 per head per day, so your total expenses would increase accordingly. Additionally, if you plan to engage in other activities like cycling, trekking, or visiting nearby places, you should also factor in those expenses.
Conclusion and Final Thoughts:
Purbasthali is a must-visit destination for bird photography enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Purbasthali offers a unique and unforgettable experience with its diverse bird species, stunning wetlands, and picturesque rural setting.
Whether you are a professional photographer or a casual bird-watcher, Pakhiralay’s Chupi Char’s beauty and serenity will leave a lasting impression.
So, pack your bags, grab your camera, and head to Purbasthali for an adventure you will remember.
And remember to share your experiences and photos with me!