Rid yourself of earthly troubles. Try a 20-minute drive from the centre of Kolkata to the Santragachi Jheel (lake).

Winter months (October to March) draw 4000 to 5000 ducks, moorhens and a few other migratory birds to this 13,75,000 square feet lake.

The Santragachi Jheel has turned out to be a remarkable story in the last few years. The lake owned and maintained by the Indian Railways has become a favourite outing for the birds. In the last few years the number of birds visiting the lake has increased considerably and the main credit for that goes to the local residents who take pride in protecting the birds. Indeed the most fascinating sight that awaits one who visits this lake is the unconcerned way in which the normally wary and sensitive birds move about.

But the lake has its fair share of problems too. Its close proximity to habitation and railway tracks does not make a pretty sight and only an avid bird lover would probably find it worthwhile to visit the lake. Added to that is the water hyacinth that dominates the surface and leaves room for very little green cover.

However everything that raises an eyebrow gets overshadowed by the enthusiastic birds who seem to be at total bliss at the lake and the enthusiasm of the local residents who contribute in their own way to make the birds feel safe and visit the lake again and again.

The combined enthusiasm of the humans and birds however have caught the eye of the wildlife department and the concerned bodies and not before long this lake could get the status of a bird sanctuary and more importantly become a safe haven for birds to flock together.

Lesser Whistling-Ducks dominate this lake, as they do in most parts of the east. Some other common visitors are Common Moorhen, Gadwall, Garganey Red-Vented Bulbul, White Throated Kingfisher, Tufted Duck, Northern Pintail, Purple Heron, Cattle Egret, House Swift, Blyth's Reed Warbler, Asian Pied Starling etc.

How to reach: Santragachi can be reached via Kona Expressway which connects the second Hoogly Bridge with NH 6. After crossing the bridge Santragachi Railway Station is a bare 20 minute drive. The jheel or lake is close to the rail tracks. One can also take the local trains from Howrah and reach Satraganchi within 15 minutes. The lake is a short walk from the station.

Best time: November to February when Kolkata and its adjacent areas are at their pleasent best. Early mornings (6.30 am) and late evenings (4.30 pm onwards) are the best time to watch the birds.