Behind the Scenes of Bharatpur, Rajasthan
The e-rickshaw drivers here are birding veterans with decades of experience. Many of them know every species by call, behavior, and nesting pattern. On one trip, my rickshaw guide spotted a dusky eagle-owl hidden deep in the banyan canopy, something I would have completely missed on my own. Their knowledge isn't from books, it's from years of patient observation.
These quiet moments between shoots are what make Bharatpur special: chai at the canteen with guides sharing stories, walking the same muddy paths at different times of day, learning which corner holds the best light at dawn. This is where photography becomes more than just capturing images, it becomes about understanding a place and the people who know it best.
My most memorable visit was in January, right after a cold wave had swept through. The park was unusually quiet, wrapped in thick morning fog that muffled every sound.
As I entered on foot, a spotted owlet peeked out from a tree hollow right by the trail, its yellow eyes fixed on me. Further in, I came across a pair of Sarus cranes dancing in a flooded patch. They were barely visible through the mist, but their calls were powerful enough to cut through the silence, a sound that stayed with me long after I left.
Whether it's a high-key image in harsh midday light or the golden hues of sunset, Keoladeo never fails to surprise you. The diverse birdlife and ever-changing conditions make it ideal for experimenting with composition. Here, you can truly practice using foreground and background elements to tell a story, not just capture a subject. Unlike many other parks, Keoladeo offers the freedom to walk around with your camera, getting low for ground-level perspectives or positioning yourself exactly where the light works best. This flexibility lets you compose thoughtfully, wait for the right moment, and create images that reflect your vision rather than settling for what's convenient.
Upcoming Wildlife Photography Workshop in Bharatpur 2025-2026
