Bhigwan: A Birdwatcher's Paradise or Just Another Travel Destination?

Nestled on the border of Ahmednagar, Pune, and Solapur districts, Bhigwan is a picturesque town often referred to as a “watery forest.” The backwaters of the Bhima River, formed by the Ujani Dam, create a vast wetland known as the Ujani Backwaters. This region is a paradise for birdwatchers, attracting numerous migratory birds, including the majestic flamingos, and supporting a rich and diverse ecosystem. Bhigwan Bird Sanctuary is often called the “Mini Bharatpur” due to its abundant birdlife.

How to Reach

• From Mumbai: A scenic 5-6 hour drive

• From Pune: A comfortable 2-hour journey

Accommodation

The village offers homestays with basic amenities, which tend to fill up quickly on weekends.

Cuisine

Dining options within the village are limited, but homestays serve delicious, authentic

Fish thaali

Maharashtrian fish thalis and chicken thalis—both culinary delights. Alternatively, highway dhabas located 5-6 km away offer more food choices.

Things to Do

A 2-night stay is ideal to fully experience Bhigwan’s offerings, which include grassland safaris, boat safaris, and night safaris.

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Grassland Safari

Vast fields of sugarcane, onion, and jowar lead to the ochre-colored plains of Bhigwan’s grasslands. By March, these dry landscapes are dotted with leafless deciduous trees and lush neem trees, creating a striking contrast. Despite the harsh environment, wildlife thrives here.

Keep an eye out for:

• Gray fox families sheltering in rocky crevices

Gray fox

• Hyenas resting in the shade

Hyena

• Spotted eagles hunting at the waterhole

Spotted eagle

• An alpha female wolf, the ‘Queen of the Grassland,’ on her evening patrol

Wolf

• Montagu’s harriers searching for a safe roosting spot

Montagu's harrier

• Chestnut-bellied sandgrouse, expertly camouflaged on the ground, known for carrying water in their feathers to nourish their chicks

Chestnut-bellied sand grouse

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Boat Safari

The backwaters of Bhigwan are the lifeline of both birds and local fishermen.

A lone fisherman balances on his boat as the sun rises, casting a golden glow over the river

At sunrise, silhouettes of fishermen casting their nets against a golden-orange sky create a mesmerizing sight. The wetlands are alive with bird activity, making it a birdwatcher’s dream.

Frequent sightings include:

• Seagulls, River Terns, Spoonbills, Herons, Cormorants, and Ibises

Painted stork

Grey heron

• Flamingos and Painted Storks—the true showstoppers!

A vibrant flock of greater flamingos wades through a serene wetland, their pink plumage striking against the tranquil landscape.

A flamboyance of flamingos dazzles with pink and white hues, while their curved beaks and black-feathered accents add stunning contrast. Nearby, a mustering of painted storks skillfully catches fish in the marshlands, joined by herons, spoonbills, and pratincoles, creating a fascinating spectacle.

Fishing is the backbone of Bhigwan’s local economy. One unique sight is that of a fisherwoman balancing on a makeshift styrofoam raft, striking the water with a pole. According to our guide, this technique stuns the fish, guiding them towards the waiting nets.

Bhigwan is an extraordinary blend of nature, wildlife, and culture—offering a serene yet thrilling escape into the wild.

Click on the link for a tour guide, safari and stay recommendation: Agnipankh flamingo view point (Sandip Nagare - 9960610615)

Written by Fatema Baldiwala