Demoiselle Cranes of Keechen, Rajasthan
The Demoiselle cranes are a migratory bird species that visit India during winter. These birds are known for their elegant and graceful appearance, with a greyish-brown plumage and a white head and neck. One of the most unique aspects of these birds is their long, slender legs, which are used for wading through shallow water and tall grasses.
Khichan, a small village in the Indian state of Rajasthan, is famous for the unique relationship that it shares with the Demoiselle cranes. Every year, between August and March, thousands of these birds flock to Khichan, where they are welcomed by the villagers.
The tradition of feeding the cranes began in the 1970s when a local resident started leaving grain and water out for the birds. Over time, the number of cranes visiting the village increased, and the villagers began to take care of the birds as if they were their own. Today, the villagers of Khichan provide more than 2000 kilograms of grain every day to feed the cranes.
The Demoiselle cranes have become a symbol of unity and harmony in the village. The villagers have a deep respect for these birds and believe that they bring good luck and prosperity to the community. The annual crane festival, which is held in January, is a celebration of the relationship between the villagers and the cranes.
In addition to their cultural significance, the Demoiselle cranes of Khichan play an important ecological role. These birds help to maintain the balance of the ecosystem by controlling the populations of insects and other small animals. They also help to disperse seeds and nutrients, which promotes the growth of vegetation.
Overall, the Demoiselle cranes of Khichan are a unique and important part of the cultural and ecological landscape of India. Their relationship with the villagers of Khichan is a testament to the power of human-animal bonds and the importance of protecting our natural heritage.
What to See
If you’re planning a visit to Khichan to see the Demoiselle cranes, there are a few things you should know to make the most of your experience. Here are some of the top things to see and do in Khichan:
Visit the Khichan Bird Sanctuary –
This sanctuary is the main attraction in Khichan, where you can observe the cranes in their natural habitat. You can see the cranes feeding and wading in the water, and watch them fly in and out of the sanctuary during the early morning and late afternoon. There are also observation decks and viewing areas for visitors to get a closer look at the birds.
Attend the annual Crane Festival –
The Crane Festival is a celebration of the unique relationship between the villagers and the cranes. The festival is held every year in January and is a great opportunity to see the birds up close, as well as experience traditional music, dance, and food.
Explore the village –
The village of Khichan is a great place to explore, with its narrow streets, beautiful havelis (traditional homes), and friendly locals. You can learn about the history and culture of the village, as well as sample some of the local cuisine.
Visit nearby attractions –
Khichan is located near other popular tourist destinations in Rajasthan, including Jaisalmer, the Thar Desert, and the historic city of Bikaner. You can plan a day trip or multi-day excursion to explore these nearby attractions.
Volunteer or contribute to the feeding program –
If you want to get involved in the conservation efforts for the Demoiselle cranes, you can volunteer your time or make a contribution to the feeding program. This will help to support the local community and ensure that the cranes continue to thrive in Khichan.
Overall, a visit to Khichan to see the Demoiselle cranes is a unique and unforgettable experience. Whether you’re a nature lover, bird watcher, or cultural enthusiast, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in this beautiful and welcoming village.
Where to Stay
Khichan is a small village in Rajasthan, but there are a few options for accommodation if you’re planning to visit the area. Here are some suggestions for where to stay in Khichan:
- Khichan Village Guest House – This is a popular guest house in the village, located near the bird sanctuary. It offers clean and comfortable rooms with basic amenities and a rooftop restaurant with great views of the cranes.
- Khichan Desert Camp – This camp is located in the nearby Thar Desert and offers tented accommodation with modern amenities. It’s a great option if you want to experience the desert landscape and wildlife.
- Hotel Rajshree – This hotel is located in nearby Phalodi and offers comfortable rooms with air conditioning and basic amenities. It’s a good option if you’re looking for a more modern and comfortable stay.
- Laxmi Niwas Palace – This palace is located in the nearby city of Bikaner and offers luxurious rooms with traditional decor and modern amenities. It’s a good option if you’re looking for a more upscale and refined stay.
Overall, accommodation options in Khichan are limited, but you can find comfortable and affordable options in the nearby cities and towns. Keep in mind that the village is quite remote, so it’s a good idea to plan your accommodation in advance.
Nearby Attraction with KM
There are several nearby attractions that you can visit from Khichan. Here are some of the most popular ones, along with the approximate distance in kilometers (km) from Khichan:
- Jaisalmer – Jaisalmer is a beautiful city located about 137 km from Khichan. It’s known for its stunning sandstone architecture, historic fort, and desert landscape.
- Phalodi – Phalodi is a town located about 26 km from Khichan. It’s known for its beautiful havelis, ancient Jain temples, and salt lake.
- Bikaner – Bikaner is a city located about 139 km from Khichan. It’s known for its beautiful palaces and temples, including the Junagarh Fort, Lalgarh Palace, and Karni Mata Temple.
- Pokhran – Pokhran is a small town located about 125 km from Khichan. It’s known for its historic fort, beautiful temples, and proximity to the Thar Desert.
- Osian – Osian is a small village located about 120 km from Khichan. It’s known for its ancient temples, including the Sachiya Mata Temple and the Jain Temple.
These nearby attractions are great options for day trips or longer excursions from Khichan. You can hire a taxi or car to take you to these places, or you can book a tour through a local travel agency.
FAQ
here are some frequently asked questions (FAQs) about Khichan and the Demoiselle cranes:
- What are Demoiselle cranes?
Demoiselle cranes are migratory birds that breed in Central Asia and winter in parts of India, including Khichan. They are one of the smallest species of crane and are known for their elegant appearance and distinctive call.
- Why do the Demoiselle cranes come to Khichan?
The Demoiselle cranes come to Khichan during the winter months to escape the harsh climate in Central Asia. The villagers in Khichan have been feeding the cranes for several decades, which has created a reliable food source for the birds and has helped to increase their population in the area.
- When is the best time to visit Khichan to see the cranes?
The best time to visit Khichan to see the cranes is from November to February, which is when the birds are in the area for the winter. During this time, you can see the cranes in large numbers at the bird sanctuary and around the village.
- Is it safe to visit Khichan?
Yes, Khichan is a safe and welcoming village. The villagers are friendly and hospitable to visitors, and the area is generally peaceful and safe. However, like with any travel destination, it’s a good idea to take common-sense precautions to stay safe, such as being aware of your surroundings and not walking alone at night.
- Are there any other attractions to see in Khichan?
Aside from the Demoiselle cranes, Khichan is known for its beautiful havelis, traditional homes with intricate architectural details. You can also explore the village and learn about the history and culture of the area, as well as enjoy the local cuisine. Additionally, you can take day trips to nearby attractions such as Jaisalmer and Phalodi.
