Keetham Lake Sur Sarovar
A Ramsar-recognized wetland sanctuary near Agra, famous for migratory birds and home to a sloth bear rescue center.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Peak bird migration season
Keetham Lake Sur Sarovar
Best Time
Peak bird migration season
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A Ramsar-recognized wetland sanctuary near Agra, famous for migratory birds and home to a sloth bear rescue center.
"A good place to visit in Agra for Nature lovers, offering a beautiful lake and birdwatching opportunities."
Carry Your Own Snacks
No food available inside. Pack water & snacks, and don't litter! :water_wave:
Beware of Monkeys!
Keep your belongings secure and avoid feeding the monkeys. :monkey_face:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Migratory Bird Spectacle
Keetham Lake
Witness a vibrant array of migratory birds like herons, geese, and pelicans during the cooler months.
Serene Lake Views
Keetham Lake
Enjoy the tranquility of the clear, expansive lake, a vital groundwater recharge system.
Agra Bear Rescue Facility
Adjacent to Keetham Lake
Visit the sanctuary dedicated to rehabilitating former 'dancing bears'.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Best Time to Visit for Birdwatching
Pack Smart for Your Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Carry Your Own Snacks
No food available inside. Pack water & snacks, and don't litter! :water_wave:
Beware of Monkeys!
Keep your belongings secure and avoid feeding the monkeys. :monkey_face:
Best for Nature Lovers
Ideal for birdwatchers and those seeking a peaceful escape from city life. :bird:
Vehicle Recommended
The area is vast, so a vehicle is helpful for exploring. :car:
Tips
from all over the internet
Carry Your Own Snacks
No food available inside. Pack water & snacks, and don't litter! :water_wave:
Beware of Monkeys!
Keep your belongings secure and avoid feeding the monkeys. :monkey_face:
Best for Nature Lovers
Ideal for birdwatchers and those seeking a peaceful escape from city life. :bird:
Vehicle Recommended
The area is vast, so a vehicle is helpful for exploring. :car:
Photography Paradise
Bring your camera for stunning shots of birds and the serene landscape. :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Keetham Lake is praised as a peaceful natural retreat, especially for birdwatching and nature photography. Visitors appreciate the serene lake and the conservation efforts at the adjacent bear rescue facility. However, the lack of amenities like food stalls and high canteen prices are noted drawbacks.
"Soor Sarovar Bird Sanctuary, or informally known as Keetham Lake, is a bird sanctuary and wildlife park spanning 403 hectares and falls under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) government of India.
This place serves multiple purposes like a water reservoir, a migratory birds habitat, a wildlife conservation and protection ecosystem and a popular nature escape for Agraites, visiting travellers & bird watching cum wildlife photography enthusiasts.
A Ramsar site(No. 2440) is a wetland recognised internationally as important under the Ramsar Convention. This intergovernmental treaty focuses on conserving and sustainably using wetlands and was established in Ramsar, Iran, in 1971.
Entry ticket - ₹40 per person (as on August, 2025). Vehicle access and photography are permitted. Beware of monkeys 🐒.
Visiting hours - 0900AM to 0500PM
No food, drinking water or refreshments available inside, so carry your own from outside, but DON'T LITTER.
Good place to hang out with the people you love to spend your time with 👫
Located adjacent to the river Yamuna this lake works as a groundwater recharge system for the surrounding areas."
Tejpal Verma
"You can just see the lake here. Nothing else. It is completely protected. There is no boating or water sport. Bear park is there with 80 bears but you can hardly see them. So if you want to just look at Lake go there. There is nothing else to do."
Vimal Kumar
"A very beautiful lake inside keetham bird sanctuary...lots of migratory birds visit here. Lake water is very clear. One must definitely visit this place. Birdwatchers may find this place heaven for birdwatching. Food should be bought earlier because here is no food stall inside. A bird information centre is also here to gain knowledge regarding birds."
Tanmay De
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Keetham Lake, also known as Sur Sarovar Bird Sanctuary, is located off the Agra-Delhi route (NH 2). You can hire a taxi or take an auto-rickshaw from Agra city. It's about a 30-40 minute drive depending on traffic. Some travelers recommend having a vehicle for easier exploration within the sanctuary grounds.
While buses run on NH 2, getting directly to the sanctuary entrance might require a short auto-rickshaw ride from the nearest bus stop. Hiring a private vehicle is generally more convenient for a direct and comfortable journey.
The sanctuary is quite spread out. While you can walk, many visitors find it beneficial to have a vehicle to cover larger distances and reach different viewing points more efficiently.
Keetham Lake is a well-known spot for locals and nature enthusiasts, especially for birdwatching. While not as famous as the Taj Mahal, it's considered one of the 'lesser known good spots' in Agra for a peaceful nature escape.
Yes, you can reach Keetham Lake by bike, and it's a pleasant ride, especially during the cooler months. However, be prepared for the distances within the sanctuary if you plan to explore extensively on foot after parking your bike.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entry ticket for Keetham Lake is approximately ₹40 per person. There might be separate charges for vehicle entry and photography, so it's good to confirm upon arrival.
The sanctuary is typically open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. It's advisable to visit during the morning hours for the best birdwatching opportunities.
No, advance booking is generally not required for Keetham Lake. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance upon arrival.
Yes, there is often a separate fee for using cameras within the sanctuary, which can be around ₹500.
Yes, Keetham Lake is a protected bird sanctuary and wildlife park, recognized as a Ramsar site (No. 2440), highlighting its international importance as a wetland.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Keetham Lake is primarily known for its birdwatching opportunities, especially for migratory birds. You can also see the lake itself, which is a significant groundwater recharge system. The adjacent Agra Bear Rescue Facility is another key attraction.
Contrary to some information, reviews suggest that boating is not available at Keetham Lake. The focus is on conservation and observing nature.
There are very limited facilities inside the sanctuary. It's crucial to carry your own drinking water and snacks, as there are no food stalls or refreshment options available.
The Agra Bear Rescue Facility, located next to Keetham Lake, is dedicated to the rescue and rehabilitation of sloth bears, particularly those previously used for 'dancing' performances.
Absolutely! Keetham Lake makes for a wonderful day trip from Agra, offering a refreshing change of pace with its natural beauty and wildlife. It's a great spot for nature lovers and photographers.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
No, there are no food stalls or restaurants inside Keetham Lake. Visitors are strongly advised to bring their own food and drinks from outside.
There is reportedly only one canteen present, and some reviews mention that the prices there are quite high. It's best to pack your own food to avoid high costs and limited options.
Since there are no dining options within the sanctuary, you'll need to plan to eat before or after your visit. Agra city offers a wide range of dining options, from local street food to more upscale restaurants.
While picnicking is not explicitly mentioned, it's generally acceptable in natural areas as long as you clean up thoroughly and do not litter. Remember to carry all your waste out with you.
Yes, you are allowed to bring outside food and drinks. This is highly recommended as there are no facilities available inside the sanctuary.
📸 📸 Photography
The best photography spots are along the lake's edge, offering clear views of the water and the birds. Early morning light is ideal for capturing the vibrant colors of the migratory birds. The Agra Bear Rescue Facility also offers unique photo opportunities.
Yes, there is typically a separate camera fee, which has been reported to be around ₹500.
You can photograph a variety of resident and migratory birds, including herons, geese, pelicans, and many other waterfowl. You might also spot turtles in the lake.
A telephoto lens is highly recommended for capturing birds in detail from a distance. A wide-angle lens can be useful for landscape shots of the lake and surrounding greenery.
Drone usage is generally prohibited in protected wildlife areas and national parks to avoid disturbing the animals. It's best to assume drones are not permitted.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Key tips for families: Pack plenty of snacks and drinks, as facilities are limited. Keep a close eye on children, especially around monkeys, and ensure they don't litter. The vastness of the area means a vehicle can be helpful to avoid tired little legs.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Photography essentials: A telephoto lens is a must for bird photography. Consider bringing a tripod for stability, especially in low light conditions. Be prepared for the camera fee and ensure your gear is protected from dust and potential moisture.
🌿 Nature & Wildlife Lovers
For the best experience: Visit during the winter months for peak bird migration. Explore the different vantage points around the lake and consider visiting the Agra Bear Rescue Facility for a broader wildlife experience. Remember to practice responsible tourism by minimizing your impact on the environment.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Avian Paradise: Birdwatching at Keetham Lake
To maximize your birdwatching experience, aim for an early morning visit. The cooler temperatures and softer light are ideal for spotting birds as they become active. Bring a good pair of binoculars and a telephoto lens if you're serious about photography. The bird information center on-site can also provide valuable insights into the species you might encounter.
Remember to maintain a respectful distance from the birds and avoid making loud noises that could disturb them. The tranquility of the lake is key to attracting and retaining these beautiful creatures.
Beyond Birds: The Agra Bear Rescue Facility
While the primary focus of Keetham Lake is its avian population, the bear rescue center provides a compelling secondary attraction. It's a place that evokes empathy and highlights the importance of wildlife protection. Visitors can observe the bears in a more naturalistic environment, understanding the dedicated work being done to ensure their well-being.
It's important to approach this visit with sensitivity. The bears are in a sanctuary for their recovery, and observing them should be done with respect for their space and rehabilitation process.
Keetham Lake as a Ramsar Site
The lake also serves as a vital groundwater recharge system for the surrounding areas, demonstrating its importance beyond just wildlife. Its clear waters and the surrounding ecosystem are carefully protected, making it a valuable natural asset for Agra and the wider region.
As a protected area, visitors are expected to adhere to conservation guidelines, ensuring that the delicate ecosystem remains undisturbed. This includes proper waste disposal and maintaining a quiet presence to avoid stressing the wildlife.
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