Wildlife
Lala-Parjan Sanctuary
The Bustard's Last Refuge
Difficulty: EasyBest Time: November to March (Winter) - Early mornings are best
Explore
1
Size: ~2 sq km (Primary Zone)
2
Status: Wildlife Sanctuary (1992)
3
Key Species: Great Indian Bustard (GIB)
4
Habitat: Grassland & Scrub
5
GIB Status: Critically Endangered (<150 left globally)
Important Advisories
- • Critically Endangered Species: Sightings are rare and NOT guaranteed.
- • Strict Silence: Loud noises disturb the shy birds.
- • Stay on Tracks: Do not drive off-road to chase birds.
- • Telephoto Lens Required: Birds must be viewed from a distance.
- • No Plastic/Littering: Strictly enforced in the sanctuary.
Overview
The Lala-Parjan Sanctuary (Kutch Bustard Sanctuary), located near Nalia in Abdasa, is the smallest sanctuary in the country but holds immense ecological value. It is one of the last few habitats in Gujarat for the Great Indian Bustard (Ghorad), a majestic bird on the brink of extinction. The sanctuary is a mix of grasslands and scrub, resembling the African Savannah.
Wildlife Treasures
Great Indian Bustard (GIB) The star attraction. A large, ground-dwelling bird weighing up to 15kg. Sightings are extremely lucky.
Lesser Florican Another endangered bustard species found in the grasslands.
MacQueen's Bustard A winter visitor to the region.
Blackbuck & Chinkara Common sightings in the open plains.
Predators Indian Wolf, Jungle Cat, and Desert Fox can be spotted.
Visitor Information
Location ~20km from Nalia, ~110km from Bhuj.
Entry Fees Nominal entry fee charged by Forest Department (approx ₹50, subject to change).
Timing Dawn to Dusk (Best visibility just after sunrise).
Facilities Very basic. A watchtower exists for spotting.
Guides Local guides from Nalia are recommended to navigate and spot camouflaged birds.
Photography Tips
A lens of at least 400mm is recommended. The GIB is very shy and will fly or run away if approached. Use a bean bag for car support as tripods might be cumbersome in a vehicle. The golden light of Kutch evenings provides excellent backdrops for Chinkara and Blackbuck photography.
Gallery
Glimpses of the hidden gem
Great Indian Bustard - The flagship species
Golden grasslands of Lala-Parjan
Chinkara grazing in the sanctuary
The elusive Lesser Florican