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Khijadia's Rise: How 52,400 Visitors Cement Gujarat's Eco-Tourism Map

Khijadia Bird Sanctuary is having a major moment, drawing over fifty-two thousand visitors this year. This Ramsar-listed wetland is a true biodiversity hotspot, with recorded bird species climbing to 332. The state has boosted the experience with new watchtowers and eco-friendly facilities. It's now a prime example of how conservation and tourism can successfully grow together in Gujarat.

Key Points: Khijadia Bird Sanctuary Draws 52,400 Visitors Boosting Gujarat Eco-Tourism

  • Over 52,400 visitors in 2024-25 cement its status as a flagship eco-tourism destination
  • Sanctuary recorded 332 bird species, up from 317 the previous year
  • Designated a Ramsar Wetland of International Importance in 2022 for its unique ecosystem
  • Enhanced infrastructure includes watchtowers and eco-huts for responsible tourism
  • Positioned as a symbol of ecological excellence ahead of the Vibrant Gujarat Regional Conference
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52,400 visitors cement Khijadia's place in Gujarat's eco-tourism map

Khijadia Bird Sanctuary attracts over 52,400 visitors, strengthening Gujarat's eco-tourism as a Ramsar wetland with 332 bird species recorded.

"Khijadia Bird Sanctuary stands out as a living example of Gujarat’s integrated development model—where environmental conservation and economic growth move in tandem. - Article"

Gandhinagar, Dec 17

Attracting over 52, 400 visitors during 2024-25, the Khijadia Bird Sanctuary has further strengthened Gujarat’s eco-tourism identity, emerging as a flagship example of conservation-led development.

As preparations gather pace for the Vibrant Gujarat Regional Conference (VGRC), the Ramsar-listed wetland near Jamnagar is being positioned as a symbol of the state’s ecological excellence and commitment to sustainability.

Ahead of VGRC 2026, Khijadia has come into sharp focus as one of Gujarat’s most significant natural landmarks. The Kutch and Saurashtra regions have steadily evolved into leading tourism hubs, offering a rare blend of natural landscapes, wildlife, coastal beauty, spiritual destinations and a rich cultural heritage.

From the White Rann to Saurashtra’s pilgrimage circuits, beaches and sanctuaries, the region offers visitors a diverse and immersive travel experience. Spread across more than 600 hectares, Khijadia Bird Sanctuary is globally recognised for its rare confluence of freshwater and saline ecosystems, creating an exceptional habitat for avian biodiversity.

According to the Forest and Environment Department, 317 bird species were recorded in 2023-24, a figure that rose to 332 species in 2024-25, underlining the sanctuary’s expanding ecological richness. This environmental significance received international validation in 2022, when Khijadia was designated a Ramsar Wetland of International Importance.

The state government has since enhanced visitor infrastructure with watchtowers, eco-huts, bird-watching platforms, interpretation centres, selfie points and informative signage, ensuring responsible tourism without compromising conservation goals. Khijadia’s ecological strength lies in its habitat diversity, where freshwater inflows merge with tidal movements from the coast to create natural creeks and marshes.

This dynamic system supports multiple micro-habitats, making the sanctuary one of India’s most vibrant birding destinations. It also reflects Gujarat’s scientific and planned approach to wetland conservation.

With the Vibrant Gujarat Regional Conference scheduled in Rajkot from January 10 to 12, 2026, Khijadia Bird Sanctuary stands out as a living example of Gujarat’s integrated development model—where environmental conservation and economic growth move in tandem.

The region’s biodiversity complements key state priorities such as tourism, agriculture, climate resilience and sustainable infrastructure, all of which will feature prominently at VGRC.

janvi/uk

- IANS

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Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
Over 52,000 visitors is impressive, but I hope the infrastructure can handle the crowd without disturbing the birds. We've seen places get ruined by overtourism. The article mentions 'responsible tourism' – authorities must ensure strict guidelines are followed. The increase in bird species is the real success story here.
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David E
As a bird photographer from the UK, I've been to many sanctuaries worldwide. Khijadia's unique freshwater-saline mix is exceptional. The Ramsar designation is well-deserved. Gujarat's focus on this ahead of VGRC is smart – it shows the world that development and nature can coexist. Can't wait to visit again!
A
Ananya R
Proud moment for Gujarat! From the White Rann to Khijadia, our state has so much to offer beyond just industry. This is the real 'Vibrant Gujarat'. Hope they promote similar models in other wetlands across India. The local communities must be benefiting from this tourism too, which is crucial.
S
Siddharth J
Good to see data-driven conservation. 317 to 332 species in a year shows the habitat is thriving. But the article reads a bit like a government press release. I'd like more independent reporting on water source management and long-term funding. Still, a positive story overall for our environment.
K
Kavya N
Perfect weekend getaway from Ahmedabad! Took my kids there and they loved the eco-huts and learning about different birds. It's heartening to see such places preserved. Hope they maintain the balance and don't let commercial activities take over. More power to our forest department! 🙏

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