Tal Chhapar Sanctuary: Churu’s Hidden Paradise for Blackbucks & Birdwatchers

Tal Chhapar Sanctuary in Rajasthan’s Churu district is a hidden paradise for wildlife lovers, photographers, and birdwatchers. Known as the “Blackbuck Paradise of Rajasthan,” it is home to one of India’s largest populations of blackbucks along with hundreds of migratory and resident birds. Spread across just 7.19 sq. km, this unique grassland ecosystem offers a rare glimpse of desert biodiversity at the edge of the Thar Desert.

Location & Geography

Tal Chhapar lies about 210 km from Jaipur, 132 km from Bikaner, and 85 km from Churu, making it easily accessible for travelers.

The sanctuary is a flat saline depression (tal) at an elevation of around 302 meters above sea level. Its landscape resembles an African savanna, with golden grasses, scattered acacia trees, and shallow ponds that collect monsoon water.

 Wildlife at Tal Chhapar Sanctuary

Blackbucks: The Star Attraction

The sanctuary is home to over 2,500 blackbucks, one of the largest populations in India. It’s common to see herds of 500–700 blackbucks gracefully roaming the open grasslands. Their favorite food is the unique “Mothiya grass”, whose pearl-like seeds are not only delicious but also nutritious.

Other Mammals

• Desert Fox

• Jungle Cat

• Desert Cat

• Nilgai

• Chinkara (though rare inside the sanctuary)

Birdlife: A Birdwatcher’s Paradise

Tal Chhapar lies along a major migratory route, making it a hotspot for over 250 species of birds. Visitors can spot:

• Harriers (Montagu’s, Marsh, Pallid, and Hen Harrier)

• Eagles (Imperial Eagle, Tawny Eagle, Short-toed Eagle)

• Demoiselle Cranes, Bar-headed Geese, Black Ibis

• Resident birds like Skylarks, Ring Doves, Green Bee-eaters, Indian Roller, and the rare Indian Spotted Creeper

During winter, flocks of up to 2,000 Demoiselle Cranes transform the sanctuary into a spectacular birding destination.

 Flora & Ecosystem

Tal Chhapar represents one of Rajasthan’s rare dry grassland ecosystems. The sanctuary is dominated by:

• Mothiya grass – the lifeline for blackbucks

• Thorny shrubs like Khejri, Ber, and Khair

• Prosopis and Acacia trees

• Saline soil plants and sedges

This ecosystem is fragile yet vital, supporting both resident and migratory species.

 Conservation Challenges

While Tal Chhapar remains a biodiversity hotspot, it faces several challenges:

• Illegal salt mining disturbing natural water flow

• Overgrazing by livestock from nearby villages

• Invasive plants like Prosopis juliflora affecting native grasses

• Stray dogs posing a threat to young blackbucks

Efforts are ongoing to protect the sanctuary, with proposals to declare it an Eco-Sensitive Zone, ensuring sustainable tourism and conservation.

 Best Time to Visit

• November to February – Ideal for birdwatching, especially migratory species

• August to October – Post-monsoon greenery makes the sanctuary scenic and perfect for photography

Early morning and late evening safaris are the best times for spotting wildlife.

 Accommodation & Travel Tips

• Accommodation is available at Sujangarh town, with eco-lodges and guesthouses.

• The Forest Department also manages a rest house inside the sanctuary with limited rooms.

• Nearest railway station: Chhapar

• Nearest airport: Jaipur International Airport (210 km)

Travel Tips:

• Carry binoculars and camera gear for birding.

• Wear comfortable cotton clothes and sun protection.

• Respect sanctuary rules – no littering, no loud noises, and maintain distance from wildlife.

• Hiring a local guide enhances your experience and supports eco-tourism.

 Why Visit Tal Chhapar Sanctuary?

• Witness one of India’s largest blackbuck populations.

• Spot rare migratory birds like harriers, eagles, and cranes.

• Experience a unique grassland ecosystem at the edge of the Thar Desert.

• Enjoy offbeat Rajasthan travel, away from crowded tourist spots.

 Quick Facts