The Chambal valley is virtual paradise for the birds and over 150 avian species may be seen here. Udpuria Painted Stork breeding colony is a marvel of nature. Local villagers protect & conserve the habitat, so over 250 pairs arrive here to breed between August & March every year.

The Sanctuary extends on both the banks of the river and supports a rich wildlife, which includes Panther, Sloth bear, Wolf, Indian Gazelle, Neelgai, Civet Cat, Porcupine and Wild Cats. The Critically endangered Vulture species are regularly seen in the valley and Long-billed vultures breed on the cliffs. Great horned owl, Dusky horned owl, Gray heron and White necked storks are the prominent nesters in the valley.

The National Chambal Ghariyal Sanctuary was established in 1978 to protect rare aquatic retiles, particularly the Gavial, a rare long nosed reptile endemic to Indian River. The 26 Km. Boat Safari takes you inside the Sanctuary and gives you an opportunity to view Crocodile, Gavial,Otters many species of turtles and the unique flora of the river valley.

The Sanctuary extends on both the banks of the river and supports a rich wildlife, which includes Panther, Sloth bear, Wolf, Indian Gazelle, Neelgai, Civet Cat, Porcupine and Wild Cats. The Critically endangered Vulture species are regularly seen in the valley and Long-billed vultures breed on the cliffs. Great horned owl, Dusky horned owl, Gray heron and White necked storks are the prominent nesters in the valley.

Sonkhalia is an unassuming place, which you would miss unless you are specifically looking for it. A half skewed forlorn board on way from Kota to Ajmer informs you that you have arrived at Sonkhalia. Do not get misled by the forlorn look of the place and make enquiries or better still ask us to accompany you. We will show you the most amazing place where conservation of most endangered bustard species is a matter of public participation and few good men of the Department of Forest.

The local farmers grow the crops to suit the Lesser florican and Great Indian bustard and accord them enough protection by not disturbing their breeding areas. It is here that the birds gather to breed. A good monsoon further helps their cause and the Lesser floricans start arriving here by the end of July. The arriving males stake claim to their favourite mounds for most ludicrous nuptial display when they expose themselves to all sorts of hazards and need men’s help and understanding. Keep your distance and we assure you of some great photographic opportunities.

Rest of the year is good for photographing and watching the Great Indian bustard. In the breeding season we recommend that the birds be left alone. They may be watched and photographed from a safe distance. Many other grassland birds may also be seen here and during winter months we also take you to some excellent wetlands teeming with migratory waterbirds on the way to Sonkhalia from Kota.

We assure you of a great photographic expedition and thank you for your cooperation in conservation.

Sonkhalia is about 180 Km from Kota by road and we can arrange your transport and stay at Kota and Sonkhalia.