Sultanpur Bird Sanctuary, 46 kms southwest of Delhi, is a green retreat with a lake and wild birds. Declared a water-bird reserve in 1972, its grounds are lush with lawns and trees and shrubs and masses of bougainvillea. We recommend spending some time in the small museum and library in the reserve, as you will get a fair idea of the birds and creatures you are likely to see during your visit to the reserve. A good pair of binoculars is a must to clearly observe the wildlife from a safe distance, without disturbing them.

Sultanpur is essentially a bird watching place with few trees blocking the tourist's view of the lake. The birds can be easily spotted wading, swimming or flying. All this is possible, because the visitors are not allowed to paddle around in boats in this water bird sanctuary, thus allowing the birds to continue with their activities without human interference.You can very easily spot grey pelicans, cormorants, grey and pond herons, egrets, painted storks who tend to congregate and preen. The black-necked storks, white ibis and spoonbills can also be spotted.

Sultanpur Bird Sanctuary was a haunt of our very own birdman- Late Dr. Salim Ali- and, innumerable bird watchers who come to observe bird antics. There are hideouts, watchtowers and a museum of sorts for those keen on serious study.Another must-see is the Sultanpur Lake, the point around which the Sultanpur Bird Sanctuary has been developed. The lake is a picnic spot for the residents of Delhi and boating facilities are also available here. The lake has a good number of reptiles and it attracts a lot of migratory birds during winters.