Salim Ali Sarovar

A mere reference to Dr. Salim Ali and a flutter of colorful chirpy birds would fill your imagination. The legendary ornithologist left an indelible mark on India's ecology and created enough awareness among people to not only develop bird watching as a hobby but also inspire many to work towards conservation of the bio-diversity hot spots. Salim Ali Sarovar (Salim Ali Lake) is one such site in the heart of Aurangabad. The site offers views of a serene lake compound and of the well manicured Mughal Garden (also known as Himayat Bagh) in the vicinity. Though created during Aurangzeb's time, this historic lake has been recently revamped and opened to public in 2014. One of the new features of this Sarovar that is attracting visitors is a 60-ft watch tower. Birdwatchers flock early mornings and late evenings with binoculars and cameras to enjoy the scene.

Situated near Delhi Gate, Salim Ali Sarovar and its garden is host to a variety of life. Trees, climbers and shrubs mark the garden, while the water body supports a variety of marine life. Parts of the lake are covered with algae and a variety of fish survive underneath. The site hosts resident as well as migratory birds. It is common to spot varieties of ducks, doves, coots, moorhens, waterhens and egrate. The best season to visit this bird sanctuary is during the cool weather between October and March.