Watch: Maharashtra Turns Pink As Flamingos Arrive In Large Numbers; Here’s How To Experience The Spectacle
Watch: Maharashtra Turns Pink As Flamingos Arrive In Large Numbers; Here’s How To Experience The Spectacle
Thousands of flamingos have once again arrived at Maharashtra’s wetlands and creeks, creating stunning pink landscapes and attracting nature lovers, photographers and birdwatchers from across the state.
Every year, migratory flamingos transform parts of Maharashtra into breathtaking shades of pink as they arrive in large numbers from Gujarat’s Rann of Kutch and Rajasthan’s Sambhar Lake. The birds usually migrate between late October and early May, with sightings peaking between February and March.
However, this year, the flamingo season has stretched longer than usual. According to tour organisers and birdwatching groups, flamingos arrived later in April and are continuing to remain in Maharashtra’s wetlands well into May, giving residents of Mumbai, Navi Mumbai and nearby cities like Pune extra time to witness the spectacular natural event.
Tour operators say flamingo-spotting experiences generally include a 45-minute boat ride through creeks and wetlands, along with access to biodiversity exhibits and audio-visual presentations explaining the ecological importance of these migratory birds.
Experts recommend carrying binoculars during the visit, although the flamingos are often visible from close distances as boats move carefully near the wetlands. Visitors are also advised to plan trips during sunrise or sunset, when the birds are most active and the lighting conditions are ideal for photography.
This year, organisers noted that flamingo sightings remained relatively low until February before numbers increased significantly from mid-April onwards, especially around the Navi Mumbai region. Tour hosts say the current period is likely the final peak before the birds begin their return migration.
Nature enthusiasts say these tours are also becoming popular educational outings for children, helping introduce urban families to biodiversity, wetlands and bird conservation.
Visitors joining flamingo tours are advised to reach boarding points at least 20 minutes before departure, wear life jackets throughout the ride and follow instructions given by crew members. Authorities and organisers also stress the importance of maintaining silence near the birds to avoid disturbing them in their natural habitat.
Tourists are discouraged from carrying food inside boats, making loud noises or moving around while sailing. Late arrivals are generally not accommodated once tours begin.
Several eco-tourism groups and local organisations conduct guided flamingo-spotting tours every year across wetlands and creeks surrounding Mumbai and Navi Mumbai, attracting thousands of visitors during the migration season.
