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Hidden Gems

Kanwar Lake (Kabartal)

Described as Asia's largest freshwater oxbow lake, and Bihar's first Ramsar wetland of international importance.

Boats on the shore of Kanwar Lake, Begusarai
Photo: Mausam Nandan, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Kanwar Lake, also called Kanwar Taal or Kabartal, in Begusarai district is described as Asia’s largest freshwater oxbow lake. It is around six times the size of the Bharatpur bird sanctuary in Rajasthan.

In November 2020 the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change declared the wetland Bihar’s first Ramsar site, a wetland of international importance. In winter it draws migratory birds, which makes it a destination for birdwatchers.

Getting there

The lake is in Begusarai district, north-east of the town of Begusarai.

Visitor information

Winter is when migratory birds arrive. Check with the forest department for current access rules.

Timings, fees and access can change. Please confirm with official sources before you travel.

DistrictBegusarai
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