Nakti Dam Bird Sanctuary

A Winter Haven for Migratory Birds • Jamui’s Pristine Wetland

Overview

Nakti Dam Bird Sanctuary is a protected wetland and bird sanctuary established on 22 July 1987 in Jamui district, Bihar. Spanning approximately 3.33 km², the sanctuary encompasses the reservoir formed by Nakti Dam, surrounded by dry deciduous forest and rocky hillocks. Every winter (October to March), thousands of migratory birds—such as bar-headed geese, red-crested pochards, and painted storks—congregate here, making it one of Bihar’s premier birdwatching destinations. The wetland also supports local aquatic fauna, rich butterfly and dragonfly populations, and serves as an Important Bird Area under BirdLife International.

Established

22 Jul 1987

Area

3.33 km²

Best Time

Oct - Mar

Nearest Town

Jhajha (9 km)

Visiting Hours

6 AM – 5 PM

Entry Fee

₹50

Wildlife & Habitat

Avifauna: Bar-headed Goose, Red-crested Pochard, Painted Stork, Spoonbill, Northern Shoveler, Gadwall, Common Teal, 136 species documented.
Resident Birds: Indian Courser, Chestnut-bellied Sandgrouse, Yellow-wattled Lapwing, Indian Robin, Pied Kingfisher.
Habitat: Freshwater reservoir, shallow margins, surrounding dry deciduous forest, rocky hillocks, marshy fringes.

Birding & Activities

Guided Birdwatching

Early-morning guided tours by local ornithologists—spot migratory and resident species, learn identification techniques.

Photography

Panoramic views of the reservoir attract photographers—ideal during sunrise and sunset for silhouettes of flocking birds.

Nature Walks

Short treks around dam embankments and nearby hillocks—spot butterflies, dragonflies, and small mammals in the dry forest.

Conservation & Community

The sanctuary is managed by the Bihar Forest Department, with wetland protection measures implemented during peak winter months to minimize fishing and human disturbance. Local fishing communities support conservation by adhering to seasonal fishing restrictions, and eco-tourism initiatives involve villagers as guides. The area is designated an Important Bird Area, and ongoing surveys document waterfowl populations and wetland health.

Nearby Attractions

Nagi Dam Bird Sanctuary

Only 4 km away—twin wetland sanctuary with similar winter migrations of waterfowl and storks.

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Lachhuar Jain Temple

Approximately 50 km away—ancient temple complex frequented by Jain pilgrims.

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Deoghar (Baba Baidyanath Dham)

About 80 km from sanctuary—famed Shiva temple and major pilgrimage site in Jharkhand.

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Accommodation & Dining

Forest Rest House (Jhajha)

Basic guest rooms with forest views—book through the Bihar Forest Department office in Jamui.

Jhajha Town Hotels

Several budget and mid-range hotels (e.g., Hotel Raj, Hotel Blessings) offering local cuisine and comfortable rooms 10 km from the sanctuary.

Camp & Homestays

Local homestays in nearby villages provide home-cooked meals and a glimpse into rural life—with basic camping facilities available on request.

Travel Tips

Best time: November–February for peak migratory bird presence.
Carry binoculars, camera with telephoto lens, and field guide.
Wear neutral-colored clothing; early morning hours are the most active.
No food or plastic allowed near the reservoir—avoid littering.
Limited shade—carry water, sunscreen, and a hat for protection.

How to Reach

By Train: Nearest station is Jhajha (9 km), with regular trains from Patna, Gaya, and Kolkata. Jamui (31 km) also connected.
By Road: State-run buses and private cabs available from Jamui and Jhajha to Nakti entrance gate. Well-paved roads until sanctuary.
By Air: Patna Airport (199 km) and Deoghar Airport (57 km) are the nearest. Hire taxi from either airport to reach Jhajha, then local transport.