Description
About:
Nestled near Pune, both Bhigwan & Saswad Grasslands are havens for birdwatchers and wildlife photographers. This 6,000 sq km expanse pulsates with life, belying its initial impression of a barren landscape. Despite its “semi-arid wasteland” classification, Bhigwan & Saswad is a thriving ecosystems teeming with over 350 bird species and 25 mammal species.
A Birdwatcher’s Paradise: Birders flock to Bhigwan & Saswad to witness a dazzling array of avian wonders. Grassland species include Indian Courser, Yellow wattled Lapwing, Greater Grey Shrike, Rock-bush Quail, Rain Quail, Greater Short-toed Lark, Indian Eagle-Owl, and Indian Peafowl. Bhigwan & Saswad offer a breathtaking birdwatching experience. The grasslands of Bhigwan & Saswad are a stage for a diverse cast of mammals. Home to the Indian grey wolf, the striped hyena, the Indian gazelle (chinkara) and the Bengal fox.
While teeming with life, Saswad faces threats like encroachment, agricultural expansion, and a proposed international airport project. These factors jeopardise the delicate balance of this irreplaceable ecosystem.
Nearest Train station: Pune
Target species expected: Bhigwan & Saswad in monsoon turn into a bird watcher’s paradise, one can sight grassland species including Indian Courser, Yellow wattled Lapwing, Greater Grey Shrike, Broad-tailed grassbird, Striolated bunting, Rock-bush Quail, Rain Quail, Greater Short-toed Lark, Indian Eagle-Owl, and Indian Peafowl. If we are lucky, we may also come across mammals like the Indian grey wolf, the striped hyena, the Indian gazelle (chinkara) and the Bengal fox.
Pricing: INR 22,300/-
Group Size: 5 Participants + 1 Leader sharing 2 Scorpio vehicles for birding.
Itinerary: Batch 2 – 5-7 September 2025
Day 1: Dive into the World of Saswad Grasslands
- Arrive at the Pune Train Station at 10 AM by INTERCITY EXPRESS (12127)
- Drive to Bhigwan, stopping for breakfast along the way. (Drive time 2 hours)
- Check in – Agnipankh Homestay.
- Lunch & Relax.
- Evening, Head for the first session of the Grassland Safari.
- Post Safari, drive back to the homestay.
- Dinner & Lights Off.
Day 2: Full Day Birding
- Early Morning – Head out for the second grasslands safari.
- Drive back to the Homestay for breakfast
- Lunch & Relax.
- Evening, Head for the third session of the Grassland Safari.
- Post Safari, drive back to the homestay.
- Dinner & Lights Off.
Day 3: Chasing the Dawn Chorus
- Early Morning – Pack up – Check out
- Drive to Saswad (2.3 hours drive time)
- Breakfast stop
- Birding in & around Saswad till Lunch.
- Post Lunch, Bid farewell to Saswad as you head back to Pune Station and board the Express for your comfortable return journey to Mumbai.
Price Includes:
- Transportation throughout the tour (Pune – Bhigwan – Saswad – Pune) in a Scorpio (3 travellers sharing 1 vehicle)
- Non-AC Accommodation at Agnipanh Homestay (2 nights) on Double Occupancy.
- Meals (Day 1 Breakfast – Last day Lunch to Tea/Coffee)
- Expert guidance from Jungle Buddies Tours
- 2 Bottles of Mineral Water Per Person Per Day
- Camera Fees in the Grasslands Safari.
What’s Not Included:
- Train tickets (Pune – Mumbai) – Can be arranged at additional cost.
- Personal expenses
- Extra Meals & Beverages.
- Gratuities (optional)
How to Register: Drop an email to contactjunglebuddies@gmail.com with the subject line “BHIGWAN” and we will revert back at the earliest.
BOOKING IS ON A FIRST-COME, FIRST-SERVED BASIS
Dial 9821455643 for more details
PS. This tour is a mix of Bird Watching & Bird Photography tour.
