The Sonkhaliya Grasslands, located in the Ajmer district of Rajasthan, India, are a sprawling expanse of flat, open grasslands that captivate visitors with their serene beauty and ecological significance. This unique destination is a hidden gem for nature enthusiasts, particularly birdwatchers, and offers a rare opportunity to witness the majesty of critically endangered species in their natural habitat. The flat, golden grasslands stretch as far as the eye can see, creating a tranquil atmosphere. The panoramic views and open skies make the Sonkhaliya Grasslands a picturesque retreat for anyone seeking a connection with nature.
Latitude: Approximately 26.45° N
Longitude: Approximately 74.63° E
Altitude: The grasslands lie at an average elevation of 400-500 meters (1,300-1,600 feet) above sea level.
Rainfall: 300 to 500 mm
Temperature: Min: 5°C; Max: 45°C
The Sonkhaliya Grasslands are one of the last strongholds of the Lesser Florican, a critically endangered bird species known for its courtship displays during the monsoon season. These small bustards are a rare sight, and spotting one is a highlight for birdwatchers.
Another critically endangered species, the Great Indian Bustard, is occasionally sighted in the grasslands. With its striking stature and significance in conservation, it draws birdwatchers and researchers from around the world.
In addition to the bustards, the grasslands are home to a variety of other bird species, including larks, pipits, quails, and raptors. The biodiversity of the region makes it a must-visit destination for ornithologists and photographers alike.
JEEP SAFARI
For a more adventurous safari experience, visitors can opt for a Jeep Safari. This allows a deeper exploration of the Sonkhaliya Grasslands in comfort while covering a wider area of the grasslands. Jeep safaris offer an opportunity to see wildlife, including large birds and smaller mammals, from a closer range.
Best Time: Winter for the best overall experience, and monsoon for bird watching.
Safari Experience: A professional driver and guide lead visitors on an off-road ride through the grasslands, where they may come across hidden areas with more abundant wildlife. Jeep safaris offer a combination of bird watching, photography, and wildlife observation.
Duration: 2-3 hours.
SUNRISE SAFARI
A Sunrise Safari offers a magical opportunity to witness the beauty of the grasslands and wildlife at dawn when the grasslands are tranquil and the birds are most active. It’s especially popular among photographers and nature lovers who want to capture the first light of the day illuminating the vast landscape.
Best Time: Early mornings, particularly during the monsoon and winter months.
Safari Experience: The safari begins before dawn, allowing participants to observe the gradual transformation of the landscape as the sun rises. This is the best time to witness birds in their natural habitat and capture the magical morning light on camera.
Duration: 1-2 hours, generally from sunrise until the early morning light fades.
NIGHT SAFARI
While not typical in all grasslands, a Night Safari is becoming increasingly popular in regions like Sonkhaliya where the clear skies and minimal light pollution make for ideal stargazing. The cool evenings of the winter months make it the perfect time for a night adventure.
Best Time: Winter months (October to February).
Safari Experience: This safari combines stargazing with the chance to spot nocturnal wildlife like owls, foxes, and small rodents. Guides use torches to identify animals and can share insights into nocturnal habits of local wildlife.
Duration: 2 hours.
The Lesser Florican is a shy bird, typical of grasslands. Its size is not more than a village hen and is known as “Khar Mor” in Hindi. This elusive bird is seldom spotted outside of its breeding season. During the breeding season, the male Lesser Florican demonstrates a peculiar mating ritual which includes jumping up to metres high in the sky, risking its life, flapping its wings like it’s been shot out of a spring and showing off its magnificent design of feathers and wings.
At the climax of its leap, the Lesser Florican has its head bent backwards and legs folded as if sitting. Then the male pronounces a special courting call often similar to a “tak tak tak” before it lands on the ground. To woo the female Lesser Florican, the male repeats this ostentatious performance several times a day. Sometimes, the male also does this to assert dominance, and if you’re lucky, you can even witness two males performing this lovely ritual while competing with each other! Truly a nature’s wonder to behold. Apart from the Lesser Florican, the Great Indian Bustard is a smaller bird and is rarely sighted in the winters. Another rare species found in this grassland is the Godawan.
Some other prevalent species in the region include Eurasian Eagle Owl, Spotted Owlet, Larks, Pipits, Quails, Francolins, Sandgrouse, Lapwings, Raptors, Coursers, Munias and Doves. Rock Bush Quails also frolic in the open meadows in packs, moreover, small groups of Rain Quails can also be witnessed while exploring the region. Scores of Grey Francolins can also be observed. Some Common Passerines included Southern Grey Shrikes, European and Indian Rollers, Plain and Ashy Prinias, Desert and Isabelline Wheatears, Pied-crested Cuckoos, plenty of Indian Bushlark, Ashy-crowned Sparrow Larks and Rufous-tailed Larks. The rich fauna of this land is fascinating to witness. The plethora of avifauna entertains the visitors by singing their birdsongs across the grassland.
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