The Time of the day between Daylight and Night or Darkness is Twilight. Simply means after sunset or before sunrise time you can see beautiful tri color sky with diffused and sometimes pinkish sky. At this moment The Sun is below the horizons but sunrays are disordered due to atmosphere of Earth and it make color of twilight.
Difference between Twilight And Dusk :
Time between Sunset and Dusk is called Twilight. At twilight moment there is little bit light in the sky. When the Sun is at 18 degree below the horizon that point is called Dusk. There is no sunlight at Dusk point.
Types of Twilight :
There are three types of Twilight
- Civil Twilight ( nearest to the Horizon )
- Astronomical Twilight ( fareast from Horizon )
- Nautical Twilight ( Fareast from Horizon )
About Thol Bird Sanctuary :
Thol Bird Sanctuary is located near Thol Village in Kadi in Mehsana District Gujarat. It was made in 1912 for irrigation tank. Later on the winter visitor birds and also lots of migratory birds came here it was declared as an Sanctuary in 1988. Thol Lake or Thol Bird Sanctuary is one of most favorite place for bird watchers. Here you can find lots of resident birds, Migratory Birds, Waders , Water birds, Serpents, Tortoies, Squirrels, Monitor Lizards etc. The different kinds of birds is the beauty of Thol Lake.
Twilight Sky At Thol Lake :
I oftenly visit Thol Lake for birding. During winter season i went for flemingos and pelicans specially. Winter is best time for Thol Lake. When my cousine came from USA we visited Thol Sanctuary. Generally i went early morning at 7 AM but my cousine was very exited to visit thol so we came early 5 AM at Thol Lake. There was a darkness at Thol Lake and also The gate open at 6 AM. so we wait for open the gate. When the gate was open and we just enter the lake we saw Twilight sky . A tri color sky looks amazing. I had never seen that type of sky before. Different shade of sky before 10 minutes of sunrise. That was experienced that we are in heaven. My cousine was very happy to see Twilight sky.
Gear Used : Canon 6 D camera, Canon 50 mm lens
How to Reach Thol Lake : Thol lake is near to Ahmedabad. Distance from Ahmedabad is around 25-30 km. So nearest Airport is Ahmedabad and Railway Station is Ahmedabad. You can go by road from Ahmedabad.
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The Indian White Eye bird actually name changed from Orientle White Eye. It is small passarine bird from white eye family. This bird can easily identify because of its white ring on eye. A small bird with white ring on eye looks beautiful. Its a resident breeder in India. I found it at Himachal Pradesh when i was on trek to Manali. Small bird found in small trees and woodland.
Description About Indian White Eye :
- Size of bird is very small about 8-9 cm.
- Color is yellow on upper parts and yellow throat and vent and white ring on eye.
- Belly is white grey also yellow in some subspices.
- It feed nectar and small insects.
- Total 11 subspices recorded.
- Breeding season is February to september and April is peak.
- They build nest in very short time and lay pale blue eggs.
Birding At Manali :
Manali is one of the best place for birding. Bird watchers oftenly came here and do lots of bird photography. There are lots of birds spices are found here. Better you go by trek so you can explore more birding area of manali. Chandrakhani Pass is very good place at height of 9000 ft above where you can found Himalayan Monal. Also lots of snow at this place so you can enjoy the nature beauty of the place. Amazing Landscapes you can take from here of Himalayan Mountain Range.
Indian White eye is Least concern bird in the IUCN bird list. It found in many areas.
Gear Used : Canon 1000 D, Canon 100-400 mm Lens
Photo Taken at Dobhi Base camp outskirts of YHAI.
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Verditer Flycatcher is summer visitor to Himalayas and North East India. I found it at Manali when i was on trek to chandrakhani pass. Flycatchers are really beautiful birds to see and to catch. The color of Verditer flycatcher is really amazing blue. Its attract to your eyes. Himalayan range is full of birds. Specially birds are migrated and also winter visitors.
About Verditer Flycatcher :
- It is blue in color and dark patch between the eyes and above the bill base.
- Male is Entirely greenish blue, brighter forehead and throat and black lores.
- It is not confusable with any other flycatcher.
- Female is similar but duller and greyer and dusky lores.
- Pale blue flycatcher is confusable with female verditer flycatcher.
- Voice song comprises series of rapid, undulating, strident notes ascending the scale.
- It found in open forest, tall trees in open areas, groves and gardens.
Himachal Pradesh Birds / Manali Birds :
Manali is very good to bird watchers. Go by trek from Dobhi to Chandrakhani Pass. Trek organized by many but i suggest go with Youth Hostel YHAI. From Dobhi you can get good birds and by moving to chandrakhani pass about 10000 ft height you can get lots of birds. I found more than 35 spices of different birds during my trek. Trekking is good experience to get in touch with nature closely. You can get amazing landscapes here of Himalayas and Himalayan Range with beautiful sunrise and sunset.
Gear Used : Canon 1000 D, Canon 100-400 mm lens
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Diwali is the large festival of India. Diwali is celebrated on 15th day of the Hindu month of Kartika. Mostly Diwali is in October or in November month. Diwali is Hindu festival but it also celebrated by Sikhs,Jains and many other religions too. Diwali is an important religious festival. More than 800 million people celebrate this festival.
What is the festival of Diwali : Diwali is celebrated by Hindu month Kartika on 15th day of calendar. Diwali festival is lasts for Five days. Diwali is also called Deepavali in Hindi word. It is also a Festival of Light or Raw of Lights or Raw of Diyas. 5 days festival starts New year for Hindu religion.
Facts and story about Diwali/Deepavali Festival : Diwali is festival of Joy. Also festival of prosperity. This festival is celebrated for the Victory of Good over Devil. Diwali is celebrated for Victory of Lord Rama over Ravan. Long years ago Ravan the king of Lanka Nagri kidnaped Lord Ram's wife Sita from jungle. Lord Ram attacked Lanka nagari and defeated Ravan on Dashera. Dashera is the tenth date of Navaratri. In this big war Lord Ram defeated Ravan and free his wife Sita from Ravan's custody. After defeated Ravan Lord Ram return to Ayodhya Nagari and when he returns Ayodhya that day celebrated as Diwali. People of Ayodhya decorated their home and city by lighting with Diyas ( lighted Lamp ) and welcomes Lord Ram and Sita.
Five Days Of Diwali ( Deepavali ):
First Day : On the new moon day of hindi month Kartik people prey Goddess Laxmi of wealth and prosperity. Goddess Laxmi appeared in Ocean known as "Samudra Manthan " by on one side Demons and other side Devataas. So the Laxmi Pujan is become tradition in Diwali. So The first day of Diwali known as " Dhanteras ".
Second Day: Second day is called Kali Chaudas. On this day Lord Krishna destroyed Narakasur so this day also known as Narak Chaturdasi.
Third Day : The day is actual Deepavali or Diwali. On that day Goddess Laxmi worshipped along with Lord Ganesha. People light their homes with Diyas on that day.
Forth Day : This day is celebrated in different forms across India. In Gujarat or western side it celebrated as Bestu Baras ( New year ). In north side it celebrated as Goverdhan Puja and Vishwakarma Day.
Fifth Day : This day is celebrated as Bhai Dooj. It is also called Bhai Beej and Bhai fota in bengal.
Tradition and Joy : There is a National Holiday on Diwali. In schools there is long vacation for students to enjoy Diwali. In tradition of Diwali people were Kurtas as traditional dress in many states of India. People buy new cloths and wear new cloths in 5 days of Diwali. There are lots of discounts in garments and all items used at home before Diwali. So in Diwali people get major discount in shopping. Kids are interested in wearing new cloths and fireworks or firecrackers. People make Rangoli on the entrance of their house to attract Goddess Laxmi. Lighting up Diyas is tradition of Diwali. Lots of different types of Diyas available in market. Ladies also clean their house before Diwali came. Business man starts new accounting books on Diwali. Different types of fireworks are available in market. Give gifts to relatives is also tradition in Diwali to start New Year and new goals of life. Now a days people send Diwali greetings via E-mail to relative who live in different country. Before trend of E-mails people send greetings card to relatives. For Diwali decoration some people make new color to their house, making Rangoli at entrance, decorate home door with TORAN for safety to their family.
Television Serial : For the story of Lord Ram, Laxman ( brother of Lord Ram ) and Sita the RAMAYAN Television serial is very famous. It describe full story of Ram and Ravan.
Letest news in India about Ayodhya Mandir : By the end of 2019 the judgement pending on Ayodhya land has to be ended in the history of India. The land dispute of Ayodhya Nagari has been ended by the Supreme Court of India. So the born land of lord Ram is now going to turn into big Temple ( AYODHYA TEMPLE ). The temple Bhumi Pujan has been done in 2020 and started to make historical Lord Ram Temple of Ayodhya.
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What is Double Exposure Photography ? : Well Double exposure is a new technique of 2 photos combined and make a single frame. Simply Take 2 photos and make it 1 photo in camera. This technique is support in DSLR cameras ( not all Dslr cameras ) to click 2 different images and merge into 1 image. Actually you can do it in photoshop or some other software but in camera technique gives amazing experience of double exposure photography.
My first Double Exposure Photo : I just heard about this techniques from my friend and i was eagrly waiting to shoot good subject in Double exposure photography. Near days Sharad Punam Full Moon is coming and i plan for it to shoot Double exposure moon photo. I need good location so i choose Narmada Dam near Prantij village. I got good result but i could get better. That is my first time double exposure photography so result may be poor. I take 2 shots and camera merged it. First i take moon close up with 100-400 mm lens and then second image take in landscape and merged with first moon image.
What you need for Double exposure photography : Tripod, Good DSLR camera, Different Lenses like zoom and wide angle, Remote shutter
Sharad Punam : Sharad Purnima :
Sharad poonam is also known as Kojagiri poonam and Raas Poornima. On that day the moon was very bright. This day is dedicated to Goddess Laxmi. In west Bengal this day is known as Laxmi Puja ( Lokkhi Puja ) . On the full moon day of the Lunar Month the harvest festival is falling. And its makes end of the monsoon season.
What Sharad Means :
As per Hindu calendar it contains six seasons. Sharad is followed by Hemant and preceded by Varsha. The seasons are Vasant, Grishma, Varsha, Hemant, Sharad, Shishir. Each season of two months. Sharad season is from September to October. In Sharad season the sky is very clear after monsoon season.
Sweets of Sharad Poonam :
After Goddess Laxmi puja it followed by some delicious sweets like Rice Kheer also known as Payesh or Doodh Pauha in Gujarati, Coconut Ladoo ( Narkel Naru ) offered as Naivedya to Goddess and Goddess Laxmi's Vahan Owl.
Full Moon Photo landscape :
On Sharad Poonam day me and my friends going to a good landscape location where we find good Horizon and Moon Rising of Full moon. We get good location of Narmada Dam near to my place and we get some good Full Moon Double exposure photos with River Dam location. Double exposure photography is really interesting and get some good but manipulated results in one RAW file of your camera. In one frame i got full Moon photo with 400mm zoom lens and in another shot i take 30 sec long exposure shot with 18-55mm lens of dam and the merge image results are stunning.
How to shoot Double exposure in Mobile and DSLR ? :
There are also some apps on mobile may be paid basis for double exposure photography named Image Blender, Double Exposure , Enlight etc... New DSLR camera of Canon, Nikon, Sony etc may support double exposure photography up to 9 stops. So you can combine 9 images into 1.
I will try with new subject next time and post it . If any query for Double exposure photography feel free to write me i am happy to help you.
Camera Used : Canon 80 D, Canon 18-55 mm lens, Canon 100-400 mm lens.
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Great barbet or asian barbet generally found in himalayas. It is the largest barbet in barbet family. It lives in forests above 3000 m height. I found it during my Manali trekking at 8000 ft height. There are about 80 spices of barbet. More than 10 spices found in India. It generally found at tall tree branches so difficult to see and take a photos. But sometimes you are lucky that you get better pictures too.
Description About Great Barbet :
- Size of Great barbet is 12-13 inch and weight aprox 190-290 gm.
- They eat fruits and insects.
- The adult has brown back ,blue head ,large yellow bill and red went.
- Nesting season is April to July.
- The color of this barbet is really a great combinations by god.
- They also found in Nepal , Bhutan and bangladesh.
- They generally found in lower to middle altitudes of himalays.
- Great Barbet male territorial call is kay-oh very loud.
- Also Great Barbet call is repetitive piou-piou-piou .
Birds of Manali :
Manali is one of the best place for birding. While you go with leisure tour you cannot get much birds but when you go in trekking then you get most of birds in unexlpored areas. Also trekking is good for your fitness too. Himalayas are really amazing for trekking and birding.
Camera Used : Canon 1000 D, Canon 100-400 mm lens
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Tiger is national animal of India. Ranthambore is located in Rajasthan at Sawai Madhopur. It really amazing feel to see tiger in its habitat. My trip to Ranthambore National Park in Rajasthan, I was very lucky to see the Ranthambore Tigress Mala T-39 Named Noor in her habitats. During trip i want morning safari because its good time to see tiger during his/her movements. The Tigress Noor/Mala is resident dominant tigress who travels currently in Singhdwar - sultanpur - kala pila pani - khemcha kund. She found in normally Zone 1,2 and 6. She used to share is territory with male dominant Ranthambore Tiger T-24 named Tiger Ustad. Tigress Noor/mala has kid in 2012 name Sultan T-72.
Ranthambore Safari Booking :
For booking safari at Ranthambore National Park you can visit https://www.ranthamborenationalpark.in/online-safari-booking-ranthambore.html
from here you can book your safari. I suggest book Jeep safari morning or evening. Canter safari is cheaper then Jeep safari but there are more than 20 people in it. So by chance if you see Tiger then in canter its over crowd to see Tiger so i suggest book Jeep Safari. There are also some agents who can book your safari in canter or Jeep with taking extra money.
How Many Tigers in Ranthambore National Park ?
Well There are almost near to 80 Tigers/Tigress/Cubs in Ranthambore National Park. Among them there are 20 Tigres , 30 Tigress and more than 25 cubs and subadults approximately. Numbers may change after 2021.
Famous Tigers/ Tigress Of Ranthambore National Park :
T-39 ( Tigress Mala ), T24 ( Ustad ), T-28 ( Sitara ), T-41 ( Junglee ) and Bina 1 and 2 are most famous Tigers/ Tigress of Ranthambore national Park. Now a days T-19 named Krishna is the Queen of Ranthambore National Park. It is female cub of Machli ( T- 16 ) also Queen of Ranthambore. The King of Ranthambore is T-24 Ustad.
I am very afraid while shooting T-39 noor because she was very close to me and passed through our car. It was breathtaking experience a wild animal near you. Generally people says morning safari is the best for animals but we got it in the evening safari. So its all about your luck.
When Ranthambore National Park Open :
Question is When Ranthambore National Park is Open ? Well answer is - Ranthambore National Park safari is open for tourist from October to June every year. During monsoon it remains closed for tourist.
Ranthambore National Park Safari Prices :
For jeep safari in Ranthambore national park is 1700 per person as of now for Indian Citizen and 3500 for Foreign citizens. And Canter price almost 1200 for Indians and 2500 for Foreigners.
Identification of Tigress Noor/ Tigress Mala T39 :
- The first siting of tigress noor was in 2009.
- She is also known as Mala, Noor and sultanpur too.
- She is known for her beauty and amazing wavy pattern on her body.
- The identification of tigress noor/mala is diamond symbol on her body.
- She was in zone 1,2 and 6. Her age is around 14 years.
- For another identifications her left ear was broken.
- Above right eye inverted trishul like mark.
- Two prominent Y on right leg.
Is Ranthambore Worth Visiting ?
Definately yes Ranthambore is worth visiting. Ranthambore jungle is very nice to travel even you can not see the Tiger. There are lots of other spices to see in the jungle. Also travel in a jungle is one of most beautiful experience in a open jeep. Its really trilling experience.
Are Tigers endangered in India ?
Well Yes you can say the Tigers or Bengal Tigers are endangered in India. There are increase in their population during 2006 to 2018 from 1400 to 2900 approx. Tigers are poaching for its skins and other body parts. But Currently India has largest population of Tigers in the World.
About Ranthambore National Park Safari :
Ranthambore national park is good for tiger lovers. Tigers siting at Ranthambore National Park is high. You can book your Ranthambore safari online. Also tatkal booking before 24 hours via agents but its on your luck that you get your safari booking. So book your safari online first then plan your travel. For safari Jeep drive is best. Also kenter mini bus safari available but too much crowed around 20 peoples. So go for jeep drive. Morning time is best for game drive in Jungle all over India. Also evening drive is good. Its all about your luck to get seen tiger. I seen tiger in evening drive. After Ranthambore trip you can go for Jaipur or Agra for next destination. Ranthambore is the best place for wildlife in Rajasthan. Siting of tigers are also good here.
Ranthambore Resorts and Hotels :
There are many options at Ranthambore for hotels and Resorts. Hotels are quite cheaper then Resorts . Hotels and resorts at ranthambore national park are very good and aslo some popular resorts like Fern resort, Regenta resort Vanya Mahal ranthambore , Nahargarh ranthambore, Oberoi Vanya vilas etc are some luxury resorts in Ranthambore. Hotels starting price from 2500-3000 INR to 5000 INR approx. And luxury resorts price around 7000 to 10000 INR depend on season and Time. During diwali time the resorts price are at high. So if you are planning on Diwali time then plan to book early as possible. I stay at Vanya Mahal Resort and its beautiful resort to stay at ranthambore.
Ranthambore nearest tourist places :
Most people came ranthambore for Tiger Safari for 2 days but if you want to explore some nearest places at Ranthambore are Ganesh Temple, Ranthambore Fort, Trinetra Ganesh Temple and Kachida. At Ganesh Temple you can do some hiking at fort side . Also you can see Heritage fort of Ranthambore too. There are some local guides who want to guide to Ganesh Temple and charge high so please if you need guide then make sure about money what he takes first. Otherwise they are misbehaving with you and you have to pay money what he ask.
Location of Photos : Ranthambore National Park, Rajasthan, Zone 6 Evening Safari
How to Reach Ranthambore : Nearest Airport : Sanganer Airport is nearest Airport, Also you can go to Jaipur and from Jaipur you can go by road.
Nearesrt Railway station : Sawai Madhopur about 10 km distance
Camera Gear : Canon 6 D, Canon 80 D, Canon 100-400 mm lens
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Grey Headed Swamphen Or Sultana Bird: Purple swamphen bird is water bird and also a backyard bird too. There are six spices of purple swamphen. It is also known as Sultana Bird. Purple swamphen bird is chicken size bird. It has large feet and bright plumage and red bill. It is generally found near lower water areas in wetlands. It is easily identifiy and also easy to find because of its color purple catches easily to your eyes towards it.
Six spices of swamphen are :
- Western Swamphen
- African Swamphen
- Grey headed swamphen
- Black backed swamphen
- Philippine swamphen
- Australasian swamphen.
In Gujarat generally it found at wetland areas like Thol Lake, Nalsarovar, Pariej wetland etc. Also some low water area they are found.
Some Facts about Grey-Headed swamphen :
- Purple swamphen can fly long distance .
- They are good swimmer too.
- They can make loud bleating and hooting call.
- They are seasonal breeders.
- Swamphen live in pair .
- They eat small fishes and snails like invertebrates.
- Color of Purple swamphen is like a peacock and a red bill on its head looks beautiful.
Purple swamphen is very good in color so the pictures are looking bright. Some of pictures are taken from my old camera so they may be not so good but i tried my best. Above image taken from my canon with 100-400 mm lens and in background and foreground a green grass make my image really fantastic.
Birds of Gujarat : Purple swamphen generally found in water areas and wetlands. My nearest place and bird sanctuary is Thol Lake. I often visit Thol Lake for birding. During winter season lots of Migratory birds came here and stay during winter. Swamphen bird is residence here and you can get them the whole year. They also breed here.
Gear used : Canon 100 - 400 mm lens, Canon 6 D , Canon 1000 D
Location : Thol Bird Sanctuary , Near Sanand , Gujarat
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Flycatchers are really beautiful birds. All species have their different specification and different from other birds. Rufous Gorgeted Flycatcher bird is one of them.In India it found in north side at Himalayan Mountain range.I got shot at manali when i was on trek of chandrakhanipass. Beautiful Bokeh with Flycatcher bird is really cool.
Binominal name : Ficedula Strophiata
Family :Muscicapidae
About Rufous Gorgeted Flycatcher Bird:
- Rufous Gorgeted Flycatcher is resident bird of Himalayas.
- Male Rufous Gorgeted Flycatcher has dark olive brown upper parts, blackish face and throat.
- Male flycatcher has prominent white forehead and eyebrow.
- Small rufous patch in center of grey breast and large white patches at sides of tail in male Rufous Gorgeted Flycatcher.
- Female Rufous Gorgeted Flycatcher has less distinct eyebrow, duller and less distinct rufous.
- Also female has paler grey face and throat.
- Juvenile Rufous gorgeted flycatcher has tail pattern as adult, underparts spotted with orange buff and orange buff throat and breast.
- Rufous Gorgeted Flycatcher bird call is a thin zreet-creet-creet-chirt-chirt ......
Manali is beautiful place to visit during winter and also in summer. If you go in winter you can see live snowfall and that is amazing experience. While if you are nature lover then go by trekking and enjoy untouchable nature. You can find lots of birds around you while you are on a trek to manali. It was my first long trek experience when i go. But i must say it is the only way to feel nature closely you go by trekking. And if it is Himalayan trek then no word to say, it is marvelous.
Photos taken at chandrakhani pass manali. Chandrakhani pass is the last point of our trek at about 10000 ft height. Its a heaven for bird watching and bird photographer. We really want Himalayan Monal at this point but we are not lucky enough to get it. But we are not disappointed because we found more than 30-35 spices of birds during our trek. We found good number of flycatchers at manali himachal pradesh. Rufous gorgeted flycatcher is beautiful bird and its color is grey so it mix up with tree so difficult to find.
Camera used : Canon 1000 D with 100-400 mm lens.
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Indian Wild Ass known as Gudhkhur, Khur or Indian Onager in local Gujarati language. The population was estimated around 4450 before 5-6 years. Indian Wild Ass population increasing in numbers and extending its range from Little Rann of Kutch to Great Rann of Kutch. Little Rann Of Kutch where found the world's largest population of Wild ass .The wild ass eat grass, leaves and fruits. Wild ass is very shy animal. If you want to go closer to them they ran away. I shoot photo from far distance with my tele lens. There was very low light at sunset and with tele lens u cant go much brighter image but i tried with sunset and wild ass together. Wild ass with sunset photo looks awesome.
Facts about Indian Wild Ass :
- The range of Indian Wild Ass is western India, Pakistan and Afghanistan .
- In India Indian wild ass found only in Gujarat in Great Rann of Kutch , Little rann of kutch in Wild ass Sanctuary.
- In Gujarat Indian wild ass also found in small numbers in Banaskantha, Surendranagar, Mehsana and some outskirts of wild ass sanctuary.
- Indian Wild ass feed grass, leaves and fruit plants.
- Indian wild ass is the fastest animal of India.
- Speed of Indian wild ass is around 70 to 80 km per hour.
- Monsoon is matting season of Indian Wild Ass.
- Indian wild ass related subspecies are Mongolian Wild Ass, Turkmenian Kulan, Persian Onager and Syrian Wild Ass .
- In India there is another Wild ass spices named Tibetan Wild Ass found in Leh Ladakh and Tibet areas,
About Wild Ass Sanctuary Gujarat :
Little rann of Kutch has two good sites one is Bajana where you can enter LRK from forest office. Another site is Dasada where good wetlands and outskirts area of amazing agricultural lands. From Bajana entrance route you can find amazing migratory birds and wild ass too. Lots of winter visitor birds and raptors found here. Best time to visit for raptors is November to February. Dasada village has good wetlands. Also some good wetlands area outside LRK where you can find migratory birds and some resident birds too. Also short eared owl found here and also endanger Bastard bird is found here. LRK is prefect sanctuary for wildlife and birders. Here you can find all types of birds and mammals. In little rann of kutch spices of invertibrates, insects, spiders, amphibians, reptiles, lizards, snakes etc are found. Sanctuary is in a desert of Kutch.
At the edge of sunset wild ass is beautiful subject to shoot. LRK has good horizon site to capture 360 degree view . Little rann of kutch is very good sanctuary for birders too. In winter season LRK, little rann of kutch is best place to visit for raptors. Lots of migratory birds and raptors are found here . Wild ass is looks like a donkey. Same body structure as donkey but only the difference is color. LRK is good place for wildlife photographer bcz you found mammals , birds, migratory birds, raptors and also owls and endanger spices of Bastard found here.
The running wild asses make frame very attractive. Also a golden light with Indian Wild Ass looks beautiful frame and theme photo of colors of rann.
Best time to visit LRK is November to march. You can go from Bajana wildlife sanctuary gate to enter.
LRK : Little rann of Kutch
Nearest village :: DASADA, BAJANA
From Ahmadabad to LRK distance about 100-120 km
Gear used : Canon 1000D, Canon 6D, Canon 100-400mm lens
Read moreAccentor is a small bird of prunellidae family. In India it is generally found in East Sikkim area. It built its nest low in a bush. When i was on a trip to Singalila National Park. I found at sandakphu area. Sandakphu is high altitude place in Singalila National Park located in West Bengal. From here you can see Mt. Kanchenjunga very clear which is highest peak of West Bengal. Lots of Birds here. To visit Singalila Park November to February you can found lots of snow and good landscapes too with snow on Mt Kanchenjunga. Also if you are going for birding you can visit March to May/June Month is the best . It is very cold weather during winter November to February at Singalila National park.
About Alpine Accentor Bird :
- Alpine Accentor bird is robin size bird. Length of bird is around 15 -17 cm.
- Bird just like similar to house sparrow in color with brown back streaked.
- Adult Alpine Accentor have red brown spotting on underparts
- Also adult have grey head too.
- In Asia Accentor found at 2000 m above height. Specially at Himalayas.
- It build nest in bush.
- It laying 3-4 plain (not spotted) eggs of sky blue color.
Singalila National Park :
Singalila national park is located in West Bengal. There are lots of birds in this sanctuary. Also its good for trekking at Sandakphu. From here you can see Mt. Kanchenjunga easily and very closely. Also a beautiful Himalayan Mountain range with snow. Amazing weather very cold in winter and moderate in summer. Summer season is the best for birding at sandakphu.
Alpine Accentor bird Binominal Name is Prunella Collaris . Total 9 subspices are recognised of Alpine Accentor bird.
Gear used : Canon 1000 D, Canon 55-250 mm Lens.
Road To Heaven is named to the road from Khavda to Dholavira in Kutch Gujarat. The road is so wonderful and scenery so it known as Road to Heaven . Khavda to Dholavira distance is around 58km but from Khavda there is a single line narrow road passes through small villages around 15-20 km approx. The main road starts after it and it is around 30-35 km approx. strait to Dholavira. Road is under constriction but almost 70-80% work done. The road heading to the city of Harappan Civilization Dholavira which is one of the largest site of Harappan Civilization and Indus valley Civilization.
Kutch is a largest district of Gujarat and also of India. Main City or Headquarter of Kutch District is Bhuj. Kutch is famous for White Desert or White Rann. In Every winter season from December to February celebrate “ Rann Utsav “ to attract foreigners and also locals. Tent City made in white desert to stay and also cultural programs arranged in it. The main Rann Utsav held in Dhordo of Kutch.
After visit White desert people also visit Dholavira which is nearest destination from Dhordo and also Kalo Dungar in between. From Dhordo you will have to go Khavda first and then from Khavda to Dholavira which is connected through “ Road To Heaven “. Dholavira is located at Khadir Bet. Khadir bet is separated because after monsoon the water filled outer side of bet. So the Road To Heaven is the way to connect Khadir bet to main city Bhuj.
About Road To Heaven Dholavira / Road to Heaven in Kutch :
- · It connected from Khavda to Dholavira.
- · Road to heaven distance around 30-35 km.
- · After monsoon the rain water on the both side of the road. You can see beautiful Greater Flamingo birds in between. Water level is low but muddy.
- · After winter in January –February the water on both side of the road is evaporated and turn into salt. Not all water but some areas during the road.
- · Water on the both side of the road or Salt/ white layer on both side of the road make the beauty of the road and that’s why it name as “ Road To Heaven “
- · When you are on the road there is hardly some traffic you face the open road with both side water or salt at morning or evening make the scenery like a Heaven.
I must suggest to visit Road To Heaven in Kutch while you visit Kutch. Also Visit Dholavira which is one of the largest Harappan Civilization site.
Places to visit near Road To Heaven :
Dholavira, Kalo Dungar, Dhordo, White Desert
Places to Visit near Bhuj : White Desert , Kadiya dhro, Chhatardi, Mandvi beach, Vijay vilas palace, Bhujyo Dungar, Smriti Van, Vande matram memorial
Camera Used : Canon 80D, Canon 6D, DJI Mavic Air2
It is the largest species of Flamingo bird family and also a most widespread species of flamingo family.It is found in India ,south east , middle east and Africa. It is migratory bird. They also breed in India. In Gujarat they breed in Rann Of Kutch , Little Rann of Kutch also found in Thol Bird Sanctuary. I often visit Thol sanctuary so got good shots of them. Best time for shoot them is may-Jun at Thol bird sanctuary bcz of water level is too low . It is been recorded that some flamingo birds are resident in Gujarat at many places like LRK, Khijadia sanctuary, Nalsarovar and Thol Sanctuary. They also breed here and stay for all seasons. So you can find greater flamingo birds in all seasons in Gujarat at many places.
Flamingo bird facts and description :
- Greater flamingo bird is the largest living spices of flamingo.
- Greater flamingo has no subspices.
- Flamingo color most of pinkish white in plumage. Wings are red and feathers are black in end.
- Greater Flamingo bird call is like honking.
- The average lifespan of flamingo bird is 30-40 years.
- Main Difference between Greater flamingo and lesser flamingo is height . Lesser flamingo is shorter than greater flamingo. Also Greater flamingo has pale pink bill and black tip. In other case lesser flamingo has dark crimson bill. Lesser flamingo is also more red in color than greater flamingos.
Greater Flamingo birds In Thol Lake : Thol sanctuary is often i visit. Flamingo birds are stay here all seasons. I got good numbers of Greater flamingo and lesser flamingo bird images in a group when i visit Thol. This is my best time with flamingos. Also i got some beautiful pictures of flamingo birds with group and also in duo with some masti. Flamingos looks very good in frame bcz of their color. Thol lake is good place for birders because more than 150 birds spices found here. Also some mammals like Blue bull and black buck also found here. Lots of water birds and tree birds found here. Also sanctuary is not so big so you can find all birds in around 6 sqkm area. Best time to visit thol lake is November to March. All migratory birds are visit in winter so that is best time. Early morning is best for birders.
Timing And Fees of Thol Sanctuary :
Thol Sanctuary open at 6 AM in morning and close at around 5 PM
Fees of Thol Sanctuary is 50 INR per person and camera fees are 200 INR. Car fees are 500 INR.
Weekend fees may change that actually i don't know about it.
Two flamingos with little egret in between of them with down head all. The images of flamingo bird making a good frame. Because of its color flamingo birds images are very attractive and also their grouping make a perfect frame of flamingo bird picture.
A morning pared time for flamingo birds. A beautiful Greater flamingo birds are in a raw make image nice and show their unity.
Perfact wingspan of Flamingo bird looks great. Pink Wings make image more attractive.
Solo Greater flamingo bird
Some masti time for two flamingo birds .
Above image shows the discipline of Flamingo Bird and looks like a morning pared they are doing .
https://youtu.be/9dVBrR9NSOo
A group of Flamingo Birds at Thol Lake make your frame awesome.
Location : Thol Lake, Gujarat
Thol lake is just 25 km approx. from Ahmedabad. You can visit one day for Thol lake is enough. Also you can find another migratory birds like pelicans , bar headed goose, river tern and many more resident spices.
Ahmedabad to Thol lake distance about 25km
Thol bird sanctuary is located in Kadi Taluka in Mehsana District near sanand Gujarat. It is an artificial lake located near village Thol. In 1912 thol lake was built and it was declared as a Sanctuary in 1988. The main use of lake is use of water for irrigation. The Thol Bird Sanctuary or a Thol lake wildlife Sanctuary India is a habitat of more than 150 spices of birds. Also it is famous for migratory birds Flamingos and Sarus Crane which breeds here.
About Thol Lake / Thol Bird Sanctuary
Thol lake is located near Thol village and its area around 38000 acres. Lake faces all season winter , summer and monsoon. During winter temperature goes to 8 degree and in summer temperature goes to 43 degree. Thol lake is under control of Forest and Irrigation department of Gujarat. Thol lake water storage capacity is around 84 million cubic meters. Thol wildlife sanctuary is declared as Eco Sensitive Zone .
Flora and Fauna Thol Sanctuary :
Thol lake has many vegetation plants like Zizyphus, Acacia nilotica, Ficus, Capparis, Azadirachta indica etc. There are also some mix flora of Marshy and Aquatic plants reported in Thol Lake.
Thol lake is protected area and it is very good habitat for water birds. In thol bird sanctuary there are more than 150 spices of birds found . Among these more than 60 % of birds are water birds. Flamingo bird is most prominent bird of Thol Lake. Also Sarus Crane nest in large number here.
Famous Migratory Birds of Thol Lake
• Flamingos
• Sarus Crane
• Great White Pelican
• Mallards
• Bar Headed Geese , Grey Headed Geese
• Waterfowl
There are also some spices reported here like Dalmatian Pelican, Indian Skimmer, Greater Spotted Eagle, Indian Vulture and white rumped Vulture etc. In Mammals Bluebull, Blackbuck and Golden jackal reported here.
Thol Lake Timing and Fees :
Thol lake open everyday at 6 AM in morning and close at 5.30 PM in evening. Entry fees for Thol Lake or Thol sanctuary is 50 INR for per person. Also Camera fees extra at 200 INR and if you go via car then car fees also 500 INR. Foreigner fees are 10 $ per person.
Best Time to Visit Thol Sanctuary / Thol Lake :
Best time early morning for Thol Lake. In winter if you go before sunrise you can see Twilight sky amazing with lake shore and birds sound .During all season Thol lake has its own beauty. Every season you can visit at Thol Lake. But mostly during winter from November to March season is best for Thol Sanctuary visit. Because during winter lots of Migratory birds came here and stay for long time so for birding winter season is best at Thol Lake. Also during summer some of birds stays here like flamingos and pelicans, geese etc. So you can also see them in summer too. Also during summer water level of lake is low so may be the birds you can get in deep or sometimes closer. During monsoon most people don’t visit but if you like macro photography then you must visit Thol lake in monsoon. You can get some excellent macro subjects like waterdrops , Spiders, Insects etc.
What to do and What not to do in Thol Lake / Keep in mind while visiting sanctuary in India :
• Keep silence in sanctuary
• Maintain discipline
• Keep sanctuary clean
• Do not throw plastic waste anywhere in sanctuary
• Protect wildlife
• Observe birds, mammals etc and protect them and identify them
• Follow rules of wildlife protection act -1972
• Don’t disturb birds and animals
• Don’t enter in sanctuary with liquor and inflammable objects
• Don’t make loud noice.
• Enter in sanctuary with permit only and keep receipt till you leave sanctuary
• Don’t feed birds and animals
Where to Stay near Thol Lake :
Well near to Thol Lake there are not good places to stay at night but you can go near to destinations like Kadi, Kalol or Gandhinagar , Ahmedabad where you can get good places to stay at night. Nearest I suggest Kalol around 15-18 km or you can go Ahmedabad around 25 km.
Places to Visit near Thol Lake :
If you are staying at Ahmedabad then go for Ahmedabad Darshan , Pol area of Ahmedabad and Adalaj Ni Vav ( Heritage places ) etc. Also go for fast food test at night at Manek Chauk and SindhuBhavan road there are lots of option for food lovers like Urban Chauk, Freezbee etc.
If you stay at Gandhinagar then visit Mahatma Mandir at Gandhinagar, Sarita udyan , Akshardham Temple etc.
I would suggest Modhera Sun Temple if you had some more time which is around 100km from Ahmedabad. For bird lovers and bird photographer I would suggest visit Little ran of Kutch (LRK) during Winter season, Pariej Lake, Indroda park Gandhinagar, Jessore Sanctuary Banaskantha etc.
How to Reach Thol Sanctuary :
Nearest airport is Ahmedabad and from Ahmedabad thol lake distance is around 30-40 km
Also for Railway station is Ahmedabad because you can get all frequency and destinations from Ahmedabad railway station.
Bahucharaji or Becharaji is located in Mehsana district Gujarat. It is a Hindu Temple of Hindu Goddess Bahuchara Mata.Bahucharaji Temple is in Bahucharaji town near shankhalpur village Mehsana. Bahucharaji Temple is in center of town. Bahucharaji temple managed by State Government. Ma Devi Bahucharaji is worshipped here as Goddess Bala Tripura Sundari.
Story of Bahucharaji temple
As per old people says Dandasur demon was stayed near Becharaji and won Patallok, Mrutyulok and Devloka all three lokas. The Devil has boon from Lord Shiva that a godeess appeared against him in small girl form. All 3 lokas Devas went to Goddess Parambaa to save them from demon. The Bahuchar mata appeared in form of small girl for fist time at Varakhadi tree . So bahuchar mata known as Bala Bahuchara Mata. Goddess killed demon with Trishul and bought peace for people of earth.
- Main vehicle of Bahuchar Mata is cock.
- Bala Yantra of Crystle and encased In gold is worshipped at temple.
- Bahuchar Mata carries sward on top right hand, Abhay mudra on bottom right, a text of scriptures on top left and trident on bottom left.
- In my family we believed that new born male child first time hair removed ( Mundan ) after 1 year in temple.
- It is also believed that any new child don’t speak properly then bought here and on his behalf cock donated to Mata and in few days child can speak properly.
- All over from India devotee came here and pray for blessing of Goddess. On purnima ( full moon ) day is special for devotees. On Chaitri Poonam 5 days fair arranged near the Temple and in city.
Where to Stay in Bahucharaji or Bechraji :
There are lots of Dharamshala , Hotels, Guest Houses in Bahucharaji. All places are in good rate available. People can also go to Mehsana , Shankhalpur for stay . Also people can go to Modhera Sun Temple for visit.
Bahucharaji Mata Temple Darshan Timing :
Bahucharaji Mata temple darshan timing is from 5.30 AM to 10 PM .
Nearest Airport : Ahmedabad
District : Mehsana
Pincode of Bechraji : 384213