Asan Barrage, Bird Sanctuary

India is rich in birds, with over 13% of the world’s birds being found here. Blessed with the cool snows of the Himalayas, the dry heat of the Thar, the humid green of the South and the swamps and sea of our coastlines, India is home to some of the most sought after birds in the world. Watching birds in India is not just incredibly rewarding; it’s a step closer to truly understanding the Indian wild.

The wetland at Asan Barrage, is situated near the confluence of two perennial rivers Asan and Yamuna. The lake attracts a large number of waterfowl, both waders and divers. The birds listed as globally threatened species and in the IUCN Red Data Book have been observed at Asan. Though it may not be large in size, the sheer abundance of Avifauna makes it an ideal place for bird lovers, Ornithologists and Naturalists alike, who can travel easily up to the site, and see thousands of birds who have travelled miles to be there. Located just 40km from Dehradun, the Assan Barrage wetland has become popular as a bird sanctuary. Though not very large in size (just 4 sq km) the sheer abundance of birds that visit it, ensures that among both serious bird watchers and beginner enthusiasts frequently visit Assan Barrage.

The wetland at Assan Barrage is situated near the confluence of two perennial rivers the Yamuna and Assan (identified as the ‘Asmanvati’ of the Rigveda). The Assan Lake, which is commonly known as the Dhalipur Lake, has gained popularity as an important bird sanctuary, attracting a large variety of water-fowl - both waders and divers while the Sal forest nearby, is home to many woodland and scrubland bird species.

The uniqueness of the Assan Barrage is that it serves as a winter passage halt for trans- Himalayan migratory birds. These birds are spotted here on their way to southern India (October - November) and again on their way back (February - March). October-end the Assan barrage witnesses the arrival of migrants from Pale arctic region when over 90% of the water bird population comprises migrants. Many of the birds seen here are listed as globally threatened and in the IUCN Red Data book.

While the winter migrants that start arriving in October make winters the most exciting season for the bird lovers, but for the serious birdwatcher the other months of the year (early May to September end) offer just as exciting opportunities to see robust flocks of local migrants like Painted Stork, Open Billed Stork, Night Heron.

The place is a wonderful destination for sports facilities and also has catering and staying facilities. For wildlife lovers there is an added bonus during winter months, for migratory birds can be sighted in the vicinity. The wetland attracts a large number of tourists regularly from Dehradun and adjoining