Ramsar Sites in India are internationally recognized wetlands designated under the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands (1971) for their ecological, biological, and hydrological importance. These wetlands play a crucial role in biodiversity conservation, flood control, groundwater recharge, climate regulation, and supporting livelihoods.
As of February 2026, India has 98 Ramsar Sites spread across different states and Union Territories, covering lakes, rivers, mangroves, marshes, and coastal wetlands. India’s growing Ramsar network highlights the country’s commitment to wetland protection, sustainable development, and environmental conservation.
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Recently Added New Ramsar sites in India: 97 and 98 Ramsar sites in India
India has recently expanded its network of internationally important wetlands with the designation of two new Ramsar sites, bringing the country’s total to 98 Ramsar sites under the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands — an international treaty for wetland conservation and sustainable use. On 31 January 2026, the Patna Bird Sanctuary in Etah district, Uttar Pradesh, and Chhari‑Dhand in Kutch district, Gujarat, were officially recognized as the 97 and 98 Ramsar sites in India, respectively.
The Patna Bird Sanctuary is a vital freshwater wetland and wintering ground for numerous migratory birds, while Chhari‑Dhand, a unique seasonal saline wetland at the edge of the Banni grasslands and the Rann of Kutch, supports a diverse range of wildlife, highlighting India’s rich and varied wetland ecosystems.
What is a Ramsar Site?
A Ramsar Site is a wetland area that is recognised as being of international importance under the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands, an international treaty adopted in 1971 in Ramsar, Iran. The main objective of this convention is to promote the conservation and wise use of wetlands across the world.
Ramsar Sites are selected based on their ecological, biological, hydrological, and environmental value. These wetlands may include lakes, rivers, marshes, mangroves, estuaries, floodplains, peatlands, and even man-made reservoirs. Such areas are important because they support rich biodiversity, especially migratory birds, help in water purification, reduce flood risks, recharge groundwater, and maintain climate balance.
When a wetland is declared a Ramsar Site, the country commits to protecting it through proper management, sustainable use, and conservation measures. The status also brings international recognition and encourages better monitoring and protection of the wetland ecosystem.
Total Ramsar Sites in India (1981–2026)
The Total Ramsar Sites in India (1981–2026) are as follows:
| No. | Ramsar Site (State) | Year |
|---|---|---|
| 1. | Chilika Lake (Odisha) | 1981 |
| 2. | Keoladeo National Park (Rajasthan) | 1981 |
| 3. | Loktak Lake (Manipur) | 1990 |
| 4. | Wular Lake (Jammu & Kashmir) | 1990 |
| 5. | Harike Lake (Punjab) | 1990 |
| 6. | Sambhar Lake (Rajasthan) | 1990 |
| 7. | Kanjali Lake (Punjab) | 2002 |
| 8. | Ropar (Punjab) | 2002 |
| 9. | Kolleru Lake (Andhra Pradesh) | 2002 |
| 10. | Deepor Beel (Assam) | 2002 |
| 11. | Pong Dam Lake (Himachal Pradesh) | 2002 |
| 12. | Tso-Moriri (Ladakh) | 2002 |
| 13. | Ashtamudi Wetland (Kerala) | 2002 |
| 14. | Sasthamkotta Lake (Kerala) | 2002 |
| 15. | Vembanad-Kol Wetland (Kerala) | 2002 |
| 16. | Bhoj Wetland (Madhya Pradesh) | 2002 |
| 17. | Bhitarkanika Mangrove (Odisha) | 2002 |
| 18. | Point Calimere Wildlife & Bird Sanctuary (Tamil Nadu) | 2002 |
| 19. | East Calcutta Wetlands (West Bengal) | 2002 |
| 20. | Chandertal Wetland (Himachal Pradesh) | 2005 |
| 21. | Renuka Wetland (Himachal Pradesh) | 2005 |
| 22. | Hokera Wetland (Jammu & Kashmir) | 2005 |
| 23. | Surinsar-Mansar Lakes (Jammu & Kashmir) | 2005 |
| 24. | Rudrasagar Lake (Tripura) | 2005 |
| 25. | Upper Ganges River (Uttar Pradesh) | 2005 |
| 26. | Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary (Gujarat) | 2012 |
| 27. | Sundarban Delta (West Bengal) | 2019 |
| 28. | Nandur Madhameshwar (Maharashtra) | 2019 |
| 29. | Nawabganj Bird Sanctuary (Uttar Pradesh) | 2019 |
| 30. | Keshopur-Miani Community Reserve (Punjab) | 2019 |
| 31. | Beas Conservation Reserve (Punjab) | 2019 |
| 32. | Nangal Wildlife Sanctuary (Punjab) | 2019 |
| 33. | Sandi Bird Sanctuary (Uttar Pradesh) | 2019 |
| 34. | Samaspur Bird Sanctuary (Uttar Pradesh) | 2019 |
| 35. | Saman Bird Sanctuary (Uttar Pradesh) | 2019 |
| 36 | Parvati Arga Bird Sanctuary (Uttar Pradesh) | 2019 |
| 37. | Sarsai Navar Lake, Etawah (Uttar Pradesh) | 2019 |
| 38. | Asan Reserve (Uttarakhand) | 2020 |
| 39. | Kabar Tal (Bihar) | 2020 |
| 40. | Lonar Lake (Maharashtra) | 2020 |
| 41. | Sur Sarovar / Keetham Lake (Uttar Pradesh) | 2020 |
| 42. | Tso Kar Lake (Ladakh) | 2020 |
| 43. | Sultanpur National Park (Haryana) | 2021 |
| 44. | Bhindawas Wildlife Sanctuary (Haryana) | 2021 |
| 45. | Thol Lake Wildlife Sanctuary (Gujarat) | 2021 |
| 46. | Wadhwana Wetland (Gujarat) | 2021 |
| 47. | Khijadia Bird Sanctuary (Gujarat) | 2021 |
| 48. | Haiderpur Wetland (Uttar Pradesh) | 2021 |
| 49. | Bakhira Wildlife Sanctuary (Uttar Pradesh) | 2021 |
| 50. | Koonthankulam Bird Sanctuary (Tamil Nadu) | 2021 |
| 51. | Satkosia Gorge (Odisha) | 2021 |
| 52. | Karikili Bird Sanctuary (Tamil Nadu) | 2022 |
| 53. | Pallikaranai Marsh Reserve Forest (Tamil Nadu) | 2022 |
| 54. | Pichavaram Mangrove (Tamil Nadu) | 2022 |
| 55. | Pala Wetland (Mizoram) | 2022 |
| 56. | Sakhya Sagar (Madhya Pradesh) | 2022 |
| 57. | Nanda Lake (Goa) | 2022 |
| 58. | Gulf of Mannar Marine Biosphere Reserve (Tamil Nadu) | 2022 |
| 59. | Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary (Karnataka) | 2022 |
| 60. | Vembannur Wetland Complex (Tamil Nadu) | 2022 |
| 61. | Velode Bird Sanctuary (Tamil Nadu) | 2022 |
| 62. | Sirpur Wetland (Madhya Pradesh) | 2022 |
| 63. | Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary (Tamil Nadu) | 2022 |
| 64. | Udayamarthandapuram Bird Sanctuary (Tamil Nadu) | 2022 |
| 65. | Tampara Lake (Odisha) | 2022 |
| 66. | Hirakund Reservoir (Odisha) | 2022 |
| 67. | Anshupa Lake (Odisha) | 2022 |
| 68. | Yashwant Sagar (Madhya Pradesh) | 2022 |
| 69. | Chitrangudi Bird Sanctuary (Tamil Nadu) | 2022 |
| 70. | Suchindram–Theroorm Wetland Complex (Tamil Nadu) | 2022 |
| 71. | Vaduvur Bird Sanctuary (Tamil Nadu) | 2022 |
| 72. | Kanjirkulam Bird Sanctuary (Tamil Nadu) | 2022 |
| 73. | Thane Creek (Maharashtra) | 2022 |
| 74. | Higham Wetland Conservation Reserve (Jammu & Kashmir) | 2022 |
| 75. | Shalbugh Wetland Conservation Reserve (Jammu & Kashmir) | 2022 |
| 76. | Nagi Bird Sanctuary (Bihar) | 2023 |
| 77. | Nakti Bird Sanctuary (Bihar) | 2023 |
| 78. | Ankasamudra Bird Conservation Reserve (Karnataka) | 2023 |
| 79. | Aghanashini Estuary (Karnataka) | 2024 |
| 80. | Magadi Kere Conservation Reserve (Karnataka) | 2024 |
| 81. | Karaivetti Bird Sanctuary (Tamil Nadu) | 2024 |
| 82. | Longwood Shola Reserve Forest (Tamil Nadu) | 2024 |
| 83. | Nanjarayan Bird Sanctuary (Tamil Nadu) | 2024 |
| 84. | Kazhuveli Bird Sanctuary (Tamil Nadu) | 2024 |
| 85. | Tawa Reservoir (Madhya Pradesh) | 2024 |
| 86. | Khecheopalri Wetland (Sikkim) | 2025 |
| 87. | Udhwa Lake (Jharkhand) | 2025 |
| 88. | Sakkarakottai Bird Sanctuary (Tamil Nadu) | 2025 |
| 89. | Therthangal Bird Sanctuary (Tamil Nadu) | 2025 |
| 90. | Gokul Jalashay (Bihar) | 2025 |
| 91. | Udaipur Jheel (Bihar) | 2025 |
| 92. | Gogabil Lake (Bihar) | 2025 |
| 93. | Kopra Jalashay (Chhattisgarh) | 2025 |
| 94. | Menar Wetland Complex (Rajasthan) | 2025 |
| 95. | Khichan Wetland (Rajasthan) | 2025 |
| 96. | Siliserh Lake (Rajasthan) | 2025 |
| 97. | Patna Bird Sanctuary (Uttar Pradesh) | 2026 |
| 98. | Chhari-Dhand (Gujarat) | 2026 |
State-wise Ramsar Sites in India
The following tables list all Ramsar Sites in India, organized state-wise.
| State | Ramsar Sites (Year) |
|---|---|
| Andhra Pradesh | 1. Kolleru Lake (2002) |
| Assam | 1. Deepor Beel (2002) |
| Bihar | 1. Kabar Tal (2020) 2. Nagi Bird Sanctuary (2023) 3. Nakti Bird Sanctuary (2023) 4. Gogabil Lake (2025) 5. Gokul Jalashay (2025) 6. Udaipur Jheel (2025) |
| Chhattisgarh | 1. Kopra Jalashay (2025) |
| Goa | 1. Nanda Lake (2022) |
| Gujarat | 1. Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary (2012) 2. Khijadia Bird Sanctuary (2021) 3. Thol Lake Wildlife Sanctuary (2021) 4. Wadhwana Wetland (2021) 5. Chhari Dhand Wetland Reserve (2026) |
| Haryana | 1. Bhindawas Wildlife Sanctuary (2021) 2. Sultanpur National Park (2021) |
| Himachal Pradesh | 1. Pong Dam Lake (2002) 2. Chandertal Wetland (2005) 3. Renuka Wetland (2005) |
| Jammu & Kashmir | 1. Wular Lake (1990) 2. Hokera Wetland (2005) 3. Surinsar-Mansar Lakes (2005) 4. Higham Wetland Conservation Reserve (2022) 5. Shalbugh Wetland Conservation Reserve (2022) |
| Jharkhand | 1. Udhwa Lake (2025) |
| Karnataka | 1. Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary (2022) 2. Ankasamudra Bird Conservation Reserve (2023) 3. Aghanashini Estuary (2024) 4. Magadi Kere Conservation Reserve (2024) |
| Kerala | 1. Ashtamudi Wetland (2002) 2. Sasthamkotta Lake (2002) 3. Vembanad-Kol Wetland (2002) |
| Ladakh | 1. Tso-Moriri (2002) 2. Tso Kar Lake (2020) |
| Madhya Pradesh | 1. Bhoj Wetland (2002) 2. Sakhya Sagar (2022) 3. Sirpur Wetland (2022) 4. Yashwant Sagar (2022) 5. Tawa Reservoir (2024) |
| Manipur | 1. Loktak Lake (1990) |
| Maharashtra | 1. Nandur Madhameshwar (2019) 2. Lonar Lake (2020) 3. Thane Creek (2022) |
| Mizoram | 1. Pala Wetland (2022) |
| Odisha | 1. Chilika Lake (1981) 2. Bhitarkanika Mangrove (2002) 3. Satkosia Gorge (2021) 4. Anshupa Lake (2022) 5. Hirakund Reservoir (2022) 6. Tampara Lake (2022) |
| Punjab | 1. Harike Lake (1990) 2. Kanjali Lake (2002) 3. Ropar (2002) 4. Beas Conservation Reserve (2019) 5. Keshopur-Miani Community Reserve (2019) 6. Nangal Wildlife Sanctuary (2019) |
| Rajasthan | 1. Keoladeo National Park (1981) 2. Sambhar Lake (1990) 3. Menar Wetland Complex (2025) 4. Khichan Wetland (2025) 5. Siliserh Lake (2025) |
| Sikkim | 1. Khecheopalri Wetland (2025) |
| Tamil Nadu | 1. Point Calimere Wildlife & Bird Sanctuary (2002) 2. Koonthankulam Bird Sanctuary (2021) 3. Karikili Bird Sanctuary (2022) 4. Pallikaranai Marsh Reserve Forest (2022) 5. Pichavaram Mangrove (2022) 6. Gulf of Mannar Marine Biosphere Reserve (2022) 7. Vembannur Wetland Complex (2022) 8. Velode Bird Sanctuary (2022) 9. Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary (2022) 10. Udayamarthandapuram Bird Sanctuary (2022) 11. Chitrangudi Bird Sanctuary (2022) 12. Suchindram–Theroorm Wetland Complex (2022) 13. Kanjirkulam Bird Sanctuary (2022) 14. Vaduvur Bird Sanctuary (2022) 15. Karaivetti Bird Sanctuary (2024) 16. Kazhuveli Bird Sanctuary (2024) 17. Longwood Shola Reserve Forest (2024) 18. Karaivetti Bird Sanctuary (2024) 19. Sakkarakottai Bird Sanctuary (2025) 20. Therthangal Bird Sanctuary (2025) |
| Tripura | 1. Rudrasagar Lake (2005) |
| Uttar Pradesh | 1. Upper Ganges River (2005) 2. Nawabganj Bird Sanctuary (2019) 3. Parvati Arga Bird Sanctuary (2019) 4. Saman Bird Sanctuary (2019) 5. Sandi Bird Sanctuary (2019) 6. Samaspur Bird Sanctuary (2019) 7. Sarsai Navar Lake, Etawah (2019) 8. Sur Sarovar (Keetham Lake) (2020) 9. Bakhira Wildlife Sanctuary (2021) 10. Haiderpur Wetland (2021) 11. Patna Bird Sanctuary (2026) |
| Uttarakhand | 1. Asan Reserve (2020) |
| West Bengal | 1. East Calcutta Wetlands (2002) 2. Sundarban Delta (2019) |
Ramsar Sites in Andhra Pradesh
| No. | Ramsar Site | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Kolleru Lake | Largest freshwater lake in India, located between the Krishna and Godavari river deltas, important habitat for migratory birds. |
Ramsar Sites in Assam
| No. | Ramsar Site | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Deepor Beel | Permanent freshwater ox-bow lake near Guwahati, important habitat for migratory birds. |
Ramsar Sites in Bihar
| No. | Ramsar Site | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Kabar Taal (Kanwar Lake) | Asia’s largest freshwater oxbow lake, formed by the meandering Burhi Gandak River, major habitat for migratory birds. |
| 2 | Nagi Bird Sanctuary | Man-made reservoir, located on Nagi River, omportant wintering ground for migratory birds, home to over 133 bird species. |
| 3 | Nakti Bird Sanctuary | A man-made wetland formed by the Nakti Dam, habitat for over 150 bird species, known for large winter congregations of birds. |
| 4 | Gokul Jalashay | A oxbow lake located on the southern edge of the Ganga (Ganges) River., over 50 bird species are found. |
| 5 | Udaipur Jheel | Oxbow lake, supports migratory birds. |
| 6 | Gogabil Lake | Oxbow lake wetland, located in the Trans-Gangetic Plains, flanked by the Mahananda River to the northeast and the Ganga River to the south. |
Ramsar Sites in Chhattisgarh
| No. | Ramsar Site | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Kopra Jalashay | A significant man-made wetland, first Ramsar Site in the Chhattisgarh, supporting over 60 migratory bird species. |
Ramsar Sites in Goa
| No. | Ramsar Site | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Nanda Lake | Goa’s first wetland designated as Ramsar site, located in South Goa (near Quepem/Curchorem), known for its migratory waterbirds, acting as a vital freshwater habitat adjacent to the Zuari River. |
Ramsar Sites in Gujarat
| No. | Ramsar Site | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary | India’s largest wetland bird sanctuary, the lake dates back to the 15th century, a vital habitat for over 250 bird species like flamingos and pelicans. |
| 2 | Thol Lake Wildlife Sanctuary | Man-made reservoir wetland, its shallow freshwater lake, protecting over 320 bird species. |
| 3 | Wadwana Wetland | Reservoir on Orsang River, constructed in 1909-10 by the Gaekwad rulers of Baroda State for irrigation, habitat for migratory birds along the Central Asian Flyway. |
| 4 | Khijadia Bird Sanctuary | Situated near the confluence of two rivers: the Ruparel River and the Kalindri River, coastal wetland with freshwater and saline zones, important habitat for migratory birds. |
| 5 | Chhari Dhand Wetland Reserve | A seasonal saline wetland, Located in Kutch district of Gujarat, situated between the Banni grasslands and the salt flats of Kutch |
Ramsar Sites in Haryana
| No. | Ramsar Site | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Sultanpur National Park | Over 250 bird species have been recorded, part of Central Asian Flyway, sahibi river flows through the park, Sultanpur Jheel located in the park and main source of water. |
| 2 | Bhindawas Wildlife Sanctuary | Largest wetland in Haryana, freshwater lake, major habitat for migratory waterbirds, supports flood control. Situated around the Bhindawas Lake, More than 30,000 variety of migratory birds, it as an Eco-sensitive zone sahibi River flow through the sanctuary. |
Ramsar Sites in Himachal Pradesh
| No. | Ramsar Site | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Pong Dam Lake | Also known as Maharana Pratap Sagar, a large, man-made reservoir, created in 1975 by building India’s highest earth-fill dam on the Beas River, a haven for over 220 bird species, including ducks, herons, plovers, and gulls. |
| 2 | Chandertal Wetland | High-altitude freshwater lake situated at approximately 4,337 meters (14,229 ft), unique alpine ecosystem, important habitat for migratory birds, Known as the “Moon Lake” due to its crescent shape, located near the Kunzum Pass, which connects the Lahaul and Spiti valleys. the lake is a primary source of the Chandra River, which later joins the Bhaga River to form the Chandrabhaga (Chenab). |
| 3 | Renuka Wetland | Natural freshwater lake, supports diverse bird species, shaped like a sleeping woman and fed by springs, named after Goddess Renuka (mother of Parshuram); features temples and hosts the large Renuka Ji Fair. |
Ramsar Sites in Jammu and Kashmir
| No. | Ramsar Site | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Wular Lake | Asia’s second-largest freshwater lake (189 sq km), fed primarily by the Jhelum River, serving as a vital habitat for migratory birds and a key source of fish for local communities, it’s known for its scenic beauty, including the central Zaina Lank island, making it a popular spot for boating, birdwatching, and enjoying sunsets, despite facing threats from siltation. |
| 2 | Hokera Wetland | Also known as Hokersar, largest bird reserve in the Kashmir Valley, known as the “Queen Wetland of Kashmir”, serves as a critical habitat for migratory birds. |
| 3 | Surinsar-Mansar Lake | Twin lakes with freshwater ecosystem, mythological significance (linked to the Mahabharata’s Arjuna). |
| 4 | Hygam Wetland Conservation Reserve | Freshwater wetland, key habitat for migratory and resident birds, acting as a critical flood buffer in the Jhelum river basin, located near Wular Lake, faces challenges from siltation that threatens its wetland character. |
| 5 | Shalbug Wetland Conservation Reserve | Small wetland, located in the Jhelum river delta near Srinagar and Ganderbal, crucial for resident and migratory birds, threatened by siltation. |
Ramsar Sites in Jharkhand
| No. | Ramsar Site | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Udhwa Lake | Freshwater oxbow lake, Jharkhand’s only bird sanctuary, first Ramsar Site of state, formed by two Ganga River backwaters, Pataura and Barhel lakes, connected to the Ganga and Rajmahal Hills, important habitat for migratory birds, supports fisheries and local water management. |
Ramsar Sites in Karnataka
| No. | Ramsar Site | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary | Also known as Pakshi Kashi of Karnataka, spread across a cluster of small islands on the Kaveri River, Formed by an embankment built by Mysore’s King Kanteerava Narasimharaja Wadiyar (1645-1648), later protected due to ornithologist Salim Ali’s efforts, Riverine ecosystem with six islets, a vital breeding ground. |
| 2 | Ankasamudra Bird Conservation Reserve | A man-made temporary lake (tank bed) with Acacia nilotica trees, fed by Tungabhadra backwaters, serves as a crucial breeding/roosting ground, housing over 35,000 birds from ~240 species. |
| 3 | Aghanashini Estuary | Estuarine wetland, rich in mangroves and aquatic biodiversity, supports fishing communities. A free-flowing river mouth where the Aghanashini River meets the Arabian Sea, notable for its mangroves, diverse fish/bird life, and high productivity, threatened by potential industrial development like ports and aquaculture. |
| 4 | Magadi Kere Conservation Reserve | A human-made wetland, provides habitat for more than 165 bird species, an Important Bird and Biodiversity Area (IBA). |
Ramsar Sites in Kerala
| No. | Ramsar Site | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Ashtamudi Wetland | Large coastal lagoon, It is the second-largest wetland in Kerala, supports migratory birds and mangrove ecosystems. |
| 2 | Sasthamkotta Lake | Largest freshwater lake in Kerala, provides drinking water, habitat for aquatic biodiversity and birds, ancient Sastha temple on its banks. |
| 3 | Vembanad-Kol Wetland | Longest lake in Kerala, a vital brackish tropical ecosystem, it’s characterized by backwaters, lagoons, and marshes, fed by multiple rivers, and is crucial for local livelihoods. |
Ramsar Sites in Ladakh
| No. | Ramsar Site | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Tso-Mori | High-altitude freshwater lake in the remote Changthang Plateau of Ladakh, known for its deep blue waters and serene beauty, designated as the world’s highest Ramsar Wetland Site (4,522 meters (14,836 ft)), it’s fed by springs and snowmelt, supports unique wildlife (birds, marmots, rare snow leopards), features the historic Korzok Monastery, requiring an Inner Line Permit for visitors due to its proximity to the Line of Actual Control |
| 2 | Tso Kar Lake | A high-altitude (4,660 meters (15,280 feet)) salt lake situated in the Rupshu Plateau of southeastern Ladakh, it is the smallest of Ladakh’s three prominent high-altitude lakes, alongside Pangong Tso and Tso Moriri. |
Ramsar Sites in Madhya Pradesh
| No. | Ramsar Site | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Bhoj Wetland | Man-made reservoir near Bhopal, comprises two historic lakes—the Upper Lake (Bhojtal) and the Lower Lake, the Upper Lake (Bhojtal) was built in the 11th century by King Bhoj, and the Lower Lake formed from its overflow nearly 200 years later, supporting numerous migratory birds, fish, and aquatic life, serving as a crucial recreational spot. |
| 2 | Sakhya Sagar | Artificial freshwater lake within Madhav National Park, near Shivpuri, known for supporting rich biodiversity, including migratory birds and Mugger crocodiles, and offering boating and scenic views. |
| 3 | Sirpur Wetland | A significant human-made wetland, supporting nearly 190 bird species, reptiles, and fish, created over 130 years ago by Maharaja Shivajirao Holkar. |
| 4 | Yashwant Sagar | A freshwater reservoir and dam on the Gambhir River, known for supplying water to Indore. |
| 5 | Tawa Reservoir | Large man-made lake created by the Tawa Dam on the Tawa River (Narmada River tributary), Part of the Satpura Tiger Reserve, it’s a popular tourist spot for boating, fishing, and exploring nearby wildlife. |
Ramsar Sites in Maharashtra
| No. | Ramsar Site | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Nandur Madhmeshwar Sanctuary | Nandur Madhmeshwar Dam at the confluence of the Godavari and the Kadva rivers, Maharashtra’s first Ramsar site, important habitat for migratory birds. |
| 2 | Lonar Lake | Crater lake formed by meteorite impact, a saline-alkaline lake, it the only known hypervelocity crater in basalt rock on Earth, supports migratory and resident birds. |
| 3 | Thane Creek | A large brackish estuary on the Arabian Sea, famous as Asia’s largest creek, a vital habitat for flamingos and mangroves, home to the Thane Creek Flamingo Bird Sanctuary in Navi Mumbai, It’s a crucial birding spot, attracting thousands of migratory birds, especially flamingos in winter (Dec-May). |
Ramsar Sites in Manipur
| No. | Ramsar Site | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Loktak Lake | Largest freshwater lake in northeast India, Famous for floating phumdis, Supports migratory birds, World’s only floating national park, Keibul Lamjao National Park, situated in the lake’s southern part, protecting the rare Sangai deer (dancing deer). |
Ramsar Sites in Mizoram
| No. | Ramsar Site | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Pala Wetland | Also known as Pala Tipo or Palak Lake, First designated Ramsar site in Mizoram, Forming part of the Palak Wildlife Sanctuary, Home to notable species like the Hoolock Gibbon and Phayre’s Leaf Monkey, Revered by the local Mara people. |
Ramsar Sites in Odisha
| No. | Ramsar Site | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Chilika Lake | Designated as India’s first wetland of international importance in 1981, Asia’s largest brackish water lagoon, connects to the Bay of Bengal, Home to the world’s largest population of Irrawaddy dolphins and millions of migratory birds, Key islands include Nalabana (a bird sanctuary) and Kalijai Island. |
| 2 | Bhitarkanika Mangrove | India’s second-largest mangrove ecosystem and largest mangrove ecosystem in Odisha, This deltaic region formed by the Brahmani, Baitarani, Dhamra, and Patasala rivers, Often called India’s Amazon, A critical habitat for numerous bird species and estuarine fish, Famous for largest saltwater crocodiles population in India and The world’s largest Olive Ridley sea turtle nesting beach at Gahirmatha, Declared a Wildlife Sanctuary (1975) and National Park (1998). |
| 3 | Satkosia Gorge | Freshwater riverine wetland in eastern Odisha, Carved by the Mahanadi River, Located within the Satkosia Tiger Reserve, Important for wildlife including gharials and migratory birds. |
| 4 | Tampara Lake | Freshwater lake situated on the right bank of the Rushikulya River, Wetland supports 60 species of birds and 46 fish species, This lake is used for Indian Army’s water activities training centre. |
| 5 | Hirakud Reservoir | Large man-made reservoir formed by the Hirakud Dam on the Mahanadi River, One of the world’s longest earthen dams, Hosting numerous migratory bird species annually. |
| 6 | Anshupa Lake | Oxbow lake located on the left bank of the Mahanadi River, Critical for migratory birds and local biodiversity. |
Ramsar Sites in Punjab
| No. | Ramsar Site | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Harike Lake | Northern India’s largest man-made wetland in Punjab, formed by the confluence of the Sutlej and Beas rivers in 1952, supporting over 400 bird species (including migratory ones) and endangered wildlife like the Indus river dolphin. |
| 2 | Kanjali Lake | Freshwater lake, part of the Kanjli Wetland in Kapurthala, created in 1870 as an irrigation reservoir fed by the Kali Bein river, supporting many aquatic and bird species. |
| 3 | Ropar Wetland | Man-made freshwater wetland, created on the Sutlej River in 1952, located at the foothills of the Shivalik range, crucial breeding and resting ground for over 150 bird species, attracting many migratory birds. |
| 4 | Keshopur-Miani Wetland | Freshwater wetland, India’s first community-managed reserve, situated at the Beas-Ravi river confluence, known for migratory birds. |
| 5 | Vyas Protection Reserve | Shallow wetland, covers a 185 km stretch of the Beas River in Punjab, flowing from the Himalayan foothills to the Harike Headworks, supporting 500+ bird species, known for the critically endangered Indus River Dolphin. |
| 6 | Nangal Wildlife Sanctuary | A man-made wetland in the Shivalik foothills, formed by the Bhakra-Nangal Project’s reservoir on the Sutlej River, known for migratory birds. |
Ramsar Sites in Rajasthan
| No. | Ramsar Site | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Keoladeo National Park | Located in Bharatpur district of Rajasthan, also known as Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary, Gambhir and Banganga rivers passes through the park, UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous bird sanctuary, major stopover for migratory waterbirds. |
| 2 | Sambar Lake | India’s largest inland saline (salt) lake, known for its vast salt flats, significant salt production, a crucial Ramsar site for migratory birds like flamingos, offers experiences like astrotourism. |
| 3 | Menar Wetland Complex | Shallow freshwater wetland, Formed by three ponds, Braham talab, Dhand talab and Kheroda talab, providing habitat for 110 species of waterbirds, of which 67 are migratory. |
| 4 | Khichan Wetland | Located in Rajasthan’s Thar Desert, known for attracting massive wintering flocks (up to 22,000) of migratory Demoiselle Cranes, these birds migrating from Central Asia, comprises two water bodies, Ratri nadi (river) and Vijaysagar talab (pond). |
| 5 | Siliserh Lake | Man-made reservoir in the Aravalli Hills, built in 1845 by Maharaja Vinay Singh to supply water to the city, known for its natural beauty and avian life. |
Ramsar Sites in Sikkim
| No. | Ramsar Site | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Khecheopalri Wetland | Sacred high-altitude freshwater lake in West Sikkim, featuring unique flora and fauna like the critically endangered Baer’s Pochard, Revered by Buddhists and Hindus as a wish-fulfilling lake (Sho Dzo Sho). |
Ramsar Sites in Tamil Nadu
| No. | Ramsar Site | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Point Calimere Wildlife and Bird Sanctuary | Coastal wetland, important for migratory birds and flamingos, rich in mangroves and salt pans. |
| 2 | Koonthankulam Bird Sanctuary | Freshwater wetland, supports thousands of migratory waterbirds, Important Bird and Biodiversity Area (IBA), forming part of the Central Asian Flyway. |
| 3 | Chitrangudi Bird Sanctuary | Seasonal freshwater wetland, also known as “Chitrangudi Kanmoli”, crucial nesting and wintering ground for migratory water birds like storks, egrets, and herons. |
| 4 | Karikili Bird Sanctuary | Shallow freshwater lake, comprises two rain-fed non-perennial irrigation tanks, important stopover for migratory birds, rich avifaunal diversity. |
| 5 | Pichavaram Mangrove | Pichavaram is the world’s second-largest mangrove forest, between the Vellar and Coleroon estuaries in the Cuddalore District, a vital habitat for various bird species (herons, egrets, pelicans). |
| 6 | Pallikaranai Marsh Reserve Forest | Freshwater marsh in Chennai, supports migratory and resident birds, serves as a natural flood control system for Chennai. |
| 7 | Gulf of Mannar Marine Biosphere Reserve | India’s first marine biosphere reserve, known for coral reefs, seagrass, mangroves, dolphins, dugongs, and sea turtles; encompassing 21 islands and designated by UNESCO. |
| 8 | Vembannur Wetland Complex | A human-made irrigation tank, known for its significant bird population, an Important Bird and Biodiversity Area (IBA). |
| 9 | Vellode Bird Sanctuary | Small freshwater wetland, located in the Erode District, centered around Periyakulam Lake, which is a man-made water reservoir, important for migratory waterbirds. |
| 10 | Udhayamarthandapuram Bird Sanctuary | Seasonal wetland, primarily relies on an irrigation tank as its main water source, irrigation tank receives water from the Mettur Dam, breeding and staging ground for numerous waterbird species like Asian Openbill Storks, Darters, Ibis, and migratory ducks. |
| 11 | Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary | One of India’s oldest bird sanctuaries, covers an area of approximately 30 hectares (74 acres), supports thousands of migratory and resident birds. |
| 12 | Suchindram Theroor Wetland Complex | Composed of large ancient tanks (Suchindram & Theroor), serves as a critical habitat and nesting ground for numerous wetland birds, located on the Central Asian Flyway. |
| 13 | Vaduvur Bird Sanctuary | Composed of small man-made reservoirs interconnected by an ancient network of canals, fed by the Mettur reservoir. |
| 14 | Kanjirankulam Bird Sanctuary | Seasonal freshwater wetland, hosting numerous resident and migratory birds, especially heron species like Painted Storks and Spot-billed Pelicans, Adjacent to Chitrangudi Bird Sanctuary, |
| 15 | Karaivetti Bird Sanctuary | A significant inland freshwater wetland and recently designated Ramsar site, crucial for migratory birds along the Central Asian Flyway, offering breeding/feeding grounds for thousands of water birds, including endangered species like Bar-headed Goose, and providing habitat for the Indian Flap-shelled Turtle. |
| 16 | Longwood Shola Reserve Forest | 116-hectare tropical montane forest (shola). home to endangered birds like the Nilgiri Laughing Thrush. |
| 17 | Kazhuveli Bird Sanctuary | A vital brackish wetland on the Coromandel Coast, known as South India’s second-largest brackish lake, attracting migratory birds from Central Asia and Siberia. |
| 18 | Nanjarayan Bird Sanctuary | Freshwater wetland, restored by King Nanjarayan centuries ago, serving as a crucial feeding ground for migratory birds. |
| 19 | Sakkarakottai Bird Sanctuary | Seasonal freshwater wetland, serve as nesting sites for numerous resident and migratory birds, acts as a key stopover on the Central Asian Flyway. |
| 20 | Therthangal Bird Sanctuary | Freshwater wetland, known for supporting diverse birdlife, including migratory species. |
Ramsar Sites in Tripura
| No. | Ramsar Site | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Rudrasagar Lake | Freshwater lake, famous for the beautiful Neermahal water palace built in its center built by King Bir Bikram Kishore Manikya in 1930, serving as a summer palace for Tripura’s royals, attracting tourists with its scenic beauty and cultural festivals like the Neermahal Jal Utsav (boat race). |
Ramsar Sites in Uttar Pradesh
| No. | Ramsar Site | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Upper Ganges River (Brijghat to Narora Stretch) | The Upper Ganges River (Brijghat to Narora Stretch) is a shallow 82 km stretch, designated as India’s only riverine Ramsar site, known for supporting endangered species like the Ganges River Dolphin and Gharial, significant Hindu religious importance (holy baths/cremations at Brijghat, Anupshahr). |
| 2 | Nawabganj Bird Sanctuary | Freshwater wetland, officially renamed the Shaheed Chandra Shekhar Azad Bird Sanctuary, a wetland and bird habitat in the Unnao district, famous for hosting hundreds of species, especially migratory birds from Siberia and Central Asia during winter (Nov-Feb), located on the Kanpur-Lucknow highway. |
| 3 | Sandi Bird Sanctuary | Also known as Dahar Jheel, established in 1990 to conserve habitats for local and migratory birds like the Sarus Crane in the Hardoi district, recognized as an Important Bird Area by BirdLife International and Bombay Natural History Society, located near the River Garra. |
| 4 | Samaspur Bird Sanctuary | Shallow freshwater wetland in Uttar Pradesh’s Raebareli district, established in 1987, known for its six interconnected lakes and rich birdlife, attracting over 250 resident and migratory species like Vultures, Kingfishers, and Surkhab. |
| 5 | Saman Bird Sanctuary | Located in the Mainpuri district of Uttar Pradesh, notified in 1990, primarily to conserve the Sarus Crane population, 5.25 sq km seasonal oxbow lake on the Ganges floodplain also hosts thousands of other waterbirds. |
| 6 | Parvati-Arga Sanctuary | Located in the Gonda District, known for its two oxbow lakes, Parvati and Arga, serving as a critical wintering ground for over 40,000 migratory birds. |
| 7 | Sarasai Navar Lake | Located in the Etawah District of Uttar Pradesh, renowned as a crucial habitat for the endangered Sarus Crane (Uttar Pradesh’s state bird), adjacent Hajari Mahadev temple draws pilgrims. |
| 8 | Sur Sarovar (Keetham Lake) | Located in the Agra district, also known as Keetham Lake, famous for migratory birds. |
| 9 | Haiderpur Wetland | A UNESCO Ramsar site, located within the Hastinapur Wildlife Sanctuary in Muzaffarnagar and Bijnor districts, formed by the Bijnor Ganga Barrage; it’s a vital habitat for over 330 bird species and rare wildlife like swamp deer, serving as a crucial stopover on the Central Asian Flyway for migratory birds. |
| 10 | Bakhira Wildlife Sanctuary | Located in Uttar Pradesh’s Sant Kabir Nagar district, associated with the Bakhira Tal (largest natural wetland in Eastern Uttar Pradesh), primary sources of water for Bakhira Tal are natural rainfall and the Ami River (Rapti tributary), hosting thousands of wintering migratory waterfowl and resident birds, serving as a vital habitat along the Central Asian Flyway. |
| 11 | Patna Bird Sanctuary | Located in Etah district of Uttar Pradesh, smallest (1.09 km2) bird sanctuary in Uttar Pradesh |
Ramsar Sites in Uttarakhand
| No. | Ramsar Site | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Asan Barrage | Man-made freshwater wetland, also known as Dhalipur Lake, located at the confluence of the Asan and Yamuna rivers, lake is popular for bird watching. |
Ramsar Sites in West Bengal
| No. | Ramsar Site | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | East Calcutta Wetlands | Urban wetland ecosystem, supports wastewater recycling, fishery, and migratory birds. |
| 2 | Sundarban Wetland | Largest mangrove forest in the world, UNESCO World Heritage Site, habitat for Royal Bengal tigers, supports fisheries and biodiversity. |
First Ramsar Sites in India
Chilika Lake (Odisha) and Keoladeo Ghana National Park (Rajasthan) were the first two Ramsar Sites in India, recognized together on 19 August 1981.
1. Chilika Lake
Chilika Lake was declared a Ramsar Site in 1981, making it the first Indian lake to receive this international recognition. It is Asia’s largest brackish water lagoon and the second-largest in the world. The lake covers an area of about 1,165 square kilometres along the eastern coast of Odisha. It is bounded by the Daya and Bhargavi river plains in the northeast, the Eastern Ghats in the northwest and west, and the Bay of Bengal to the south and southeast.
2. Keoladeo National Park
Keoladeo Ghana National Park is a famous bird sanctuary located in Bharatpur district, Rajasthan, at the confluence of the Gambhir and Banganga rivers. It covers an area of 28.73 square kilometres and is about 50 km west of Agra. It is a man-made and human-managed wetland and was declared a Ramsar Site in 1981. The park was also inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985. Keoladeo is known for hosting thousands of migratory birds. Earlier, the Siberian Crane used to migrate here during winter, making the park globally famous for bird conservation.
Largest Ramsar Sites in India
India has several large and ecologically important wetlands recognized as Ramsar Sites under the Ramsar Convention. These wetlands are vital for biodiversity, climate regulation, flood control, and migratory birds. The following table lists the largest Ramsar Sites in India by area:
| Rank | Ramsar Site | State | Area (hectares) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Sundarbans Wetland | West Bengal | 4,23,000 |
| 2 | Vembanad–Kol Wetland | Kerala | 1,51,250 |
| 3 | Chilika Lake | Odisha | 1,16,500 |
| 4 | Bhitarkanika Mangroves | Odisha | 65,000 |
| 5 | Hirakud Reservoir | Odisha | 65,400 |
Smallest Ramsar Sites in India
While India is home to some of the largest and most famous wetlands, it also has several small but ecologically important Ramsar Sites. These smaller wetlands, often less than a few hundred hectares in area, play a vital role in biodiversity conservation, supporting rare and endangered species, and sustaining local communities. The following table lists the smallest Ramsar Sites in India by area:
| Rank | Ramsar Site | State | Area (hectares) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Renuka Wetland | Himachal Pradesh | 20 |
| 2 | Vembannur Wetland Complex | Tamil Nadu | 20 |
| 3 | Therthangal Bird Sanctuary | Tamil Nadu | 29.295 |
| 4 | Nanda Lake | Goa | 42 |
| 5 | Chandertal Wetland | Himachal Pradesh | 49 |
What is Ramsar Convention?
The Ramsar Convention, officially known as the Convention on Wetlands of International Importance, is an international treaty dedicated to the conservation and sustainable use of wetlands. It was adopted on February 2, 1971, in the Iranian city of Ramsar, after which the convention is named. The treaty came into force on December 21, 1975.
The Ramsar Convention is the first global treaty focused on wetland conservation, highlighting the importance of these ecosystems for environmental balance and sustainable development.
The primary objective of the Ramsar Convention is to protect wetlands worldwide, recognizing their ecological, economic, cultural, and scientific significance. Wetlands play a crucial role in supporting biodiversity, providing habitat for migratory birds, controlling floods, purifying water, and regulating climate.
Countries that are signatories to the Convention, called Contracting Parties, commit to:
- Designating at least one wetland as a Ramsar Site.
- Promoting the wise and sustainable use of wetlands across their territory.
- Cooperating internationally to conserve migratory species and wetland ecosystems.
India Joined Ramsar Convention
India is a signatory to the Ramsar Convention and became a party to the treaty on October 1, 1981. On this date, India designated Chilika Lake in Odisha and Keoladeo National Park in Rajasthan as its first Ramsar Sites, marking the beginning of its formal commitment to wetland conservation.
What is Montreux Record?
The Montreux Record is a list of Ramsar Sites that are facing or are likely to face significant ecological changes. It was established under the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands to highlight wetlands that require priority conservation and restoration efforts.
The record is named after Montreux, Switzerland, where the list was first adopted. A wetland is added to the Montreux Record when it is identified as being under threat due to human activities, pollution, invasive species, water mismanagement, or other environmental pressures.
Key points about the Montreux Record:
- It is not a punitive list; instead, it aims to draw attention and mobilize support for conservation.
- Countries can request technical and financial assistance for the restoration of wetlands on the record.
- Inclusion in the Montreux Record often helps focus global and national resources on protecting these vulnerable ecosystems.
Montreux Record Sites in India
The Montreux Record in India serves as a warning and conservation tool, helping focus national and international efforts on wetlands that are under threat, while restoration initiatives can lead to their successful removal from the list. Currently, 2 Indian sites are listed under Montreux Record: Keoladeo National Park (Rajasthan) and Loktak Lake (Manipur).
1. Keoladeo National Park Montreux Record
Keoladeo National Park, a globally significant bird sanctuary, was added to the Montreux Record in 1990. The site faced threats from water scarcity, encroachment, and changes to its ecological character, which prompted its inclusion.
2. Loktak Lake Montreux Record
Loktak Lake, known for its floating phumdis and rich biodiversity, was placed on the Montreux Record in 1993. Its ecosystem was under pressure due to pollution, human interference, and technological developments, necessitating conservation measures.
3. Chilika Lake Montreux Record
Chilika Lake, India’s largest brackish lagoon, was listed in the Montreux Record in 1993 because of siltation issues. Thanks to restoration efforts, it was removed from the record in 2002, becoming a successful example of wetland management in India.
World Wetlands Day
World Wetlands Day is observed every year on February 2nd to highlight the importance of wetlands and their role in maintaining healthy ecosystems. The first World Wetlands Day was celebrated on February 2, 1997, marking the anniversary of the signing of the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands in 1971
The purpose of the day is to raise awareness about the ecological, economic, and cultural value of wetlands, including their support for biodiversity, water regulation, and climate resilience. Every year, a special theme draws attention to a particular aspect of wetland conservation or a related environmental issue.
Around the world, governments, NGOs, and local communities organize educational programs, workshops, clean-up drives, and awareness campaigns to engage people in protecting these critical habitats. World Wetlands Day reminds us of the urgent need to preserve and restore wetlands, ensuring they continue to provide benefits for both nature and human society.
World Wetlands Day Theme
Each year, World Wetlands Day is celebrated with a specific theme to focus attention on a particular aspect of wetland conservation and raise awareness about global and local challenges. The theme highlights issues such as wetland restoration, biodiversity protection, water management, and climate resilience, guiding governments, organizations, and communities in their educational and conservation efforts. By emphasizing a theme, the day encourages people to reflect on the importance of wetlands, take action to safeguard them, and support sustainable practices that preserve these vital ecosystems for future generations.
| Year | World Wetlands Day Theme |
|---|---|
| 1997 | First World Wetlands Day (no formal theme) |
| 1998 | Water for wetlands, wetlands for water |
| 1999 | People and wetlands – The vital link |
| 2000 | Celebrating Our Wetlands of International Importance |
| 2001 | Wetland world – A world to discover! |
| 2002 | Wetlands: Water, Life and Culture |
| 2003 | No wetlands – no water! |
| 2004 | From the mountains to the sea – Wetlands at work for us |
| 2005 | There’s wealth in wetland diversity – don’t lose it! |
| 2006 | Livelihoods at risk |
| 2007 | Fish for tomorrow? |
| 2008 | Healthy Wetlands, Healthy People |
| 2009 | River basins and their management |
| 2010 | Wetlands, biodiversity and climate change |
| 2011 | Wetlands and forests |
| 2012 | Wetlands and tourism |
| 2013 | Wetlands and water management |
| 2014 | Wetlands and agriculture |
| 2015 | Wetlands For Our Future |
| 2016 | Wetlands for our Future – Sustainable Livelihoods |
| 2017 | Wetlands for Disaster Risk Reduction |
| 2018 | Wetlands for a Sustainable Urban Future |
| 2019 | Wetlands and Climate Change |
| 2020 | Wetlands and Biodiversity |
| 2021 | Wetlands and Water |
| 2022 | Wetlands Action for People and Nature |
| 2023 | Wetland Restoration |
| 2024 | Wetlands and Human Wellbeing |
| 2025 | Protecting Wetlands for Our Common Future |