Top 9 Places to See the Great Indian Bustard in the Wild

Once abundant across India’s grasslands, the Great Indian Bustard now faces extinction. With fewer than 200 left, these nine destinations offer rare opportunities to witness this majestic, critically endangered bird.

1. Desert National Park, Rajasthan

This sprawling expanse near Jaisalmer is the bird’s last stronghold, with vast dunes and arid grasslands offering ideal conditions.

2. Ramdevra Conservation Centre, Jaisalmer

Dedicated to captive breeding and habitat restoration, the centre plays a key role in ongoing conservation efforts for the species.

3. Kutch Bustard Sanctuary, Gujarat

Also known as the Lala–Parjan Sanctuary, it is a vital habitat offering protected grasslands specifically preserved for the Great Indian Bustard.

4. Jawaharlal Nehru Bustard Sanctuary, Maharashtra

Nestled in the Solapur district, this sanctuary is among the few remaining habitats where the bustard still clings to survival.

5. Rollapadu Wildlife Sanctuary, Andhra Pradesh

This lesser-known sanctuary supports a population of bustards alongside blackbucks, foxes, and other arid-land wildlife species.

6. Abdasa and Mandvi Talukas, Gujarat

These coastal grasslands host suitable dry scrublands that are critical for the bustard’s foraging and nesting behaviour.

7. Naliya Grasslands, Gujarat

Open flat terrain and sparse vegetation here provide the ideal environment for the ground-dwelling bustard’s movements and displays.

8. Tal Chhapar Sanctuary, Rajasthan

This protected area is known for blackbucks but also serves as a seasonal habitat for bustards during certain months.

9. Ghatigaon Sanctuary, Madhya Pradesh

Located near Gwalior, this sanctuary comprises flat dry forest patches that once supported a larger bustard population.