Mangalajodi Bird Photography Tour

3 days / 2 Nights | twin sharing rooms | Full Day Boat Safari | 3 in a boat

Join our exclusive wildlife photography tour at Mangalajodi, where we focus on creative techniques like capturing stunning backlit shots at sunset and slow-shutter panning to emphasize motion. Along with these sessions, we provide dedicated post-processing support to help you perfect your images. You’ll also experience the incredible action moments of the wetlands, like birds diving for prey or taking flight. As one of the best winter birding destinations, Mangalajodi is home to over 200 species of birds, offering unparalleled opportunities to capture breathtaking images amidst its vibrant, dynamic ecosystem.

Tour Highlights

Unique Action Moments

Unique Action Moments: Mangalajodi offers thrilling opportunities to capture rare action moments in the wild. During the winter months, especially in February when water levels are low, you can witness dramatic scenes like Purple Herons with snakes or bullfrogs, Grey Herons hunting frogs, and Black-Headed Ibis with their catch, all while Brahminy Kites attempt to steal their prey. These intense interactions between predator and prey create unforgettable, dynamic moments, making Mangalajodi a prime destination for photographers seeking to capture the raw energy and excitement of nature in motion.

Memorable Boat Safaris

A boat safari at Mangalajodi offers an intimate and serene way to explore its rich wetlands. Guided by local boatmen, you’ll glide through shallow waters, providing a unique vantage point to observe and photograph the abundant birdlife up close. From witnessing the majestic flight of migratory birds to capturing predator-prey interactions, the boat safaris ensure you experience the wild beauty of Mangalajodi without disturbing its natural balance. These peaceful, eco-friendly tours make every journey through the wetlands memorable, offering a deeper connection with nature and unparalleled photography opportunities.

Memorable Boat Safaris

A boat safari at Mangalajodi offers an intimate and serene way to explore its rich wetlands. Guided by local boatmen, you’ll glide through shallow waters, providing a unique vantage point to observe and photograph the abundant birdlife up close. From witnessing the majestic flight of migratory birds to capturing predator-prey interactions, the boat safaris ensure you experience the wild beauty of Mangalajodi without disturbing its natural balance. These peaceful, eco-friendly tours make every journey through the wetlands memorable, offering a deeper connection with nature and unparalleled photography opportunities.

Upclose with the Waders

Mangalajodi provides a unique opportunity to observe wading birds in their natural habitat, often from just a few feet away. The shallow waters attract an array of waders like Black-tailed Godwits, Sandpipers, and Stilts, allowing photographers and bird enthusiasts to capture these elegant birds as they feed and interact. The tranquil setting, coupled with the abundance of birdlife, creates an immersive experience where you can witness the intricate behaviors of waders up close. This close proximity to the birds makes Mangalajodi an exceptional destination for those looking to photograph or observe these graceful creatures in action.

ABOUT MANGALAJODI

Mangalajodi, a vibrant wetland in Odisha, is a paradise for wildlife photographers, especially bird enthusiasts. Home to over 200 species of resident and migratory birds, it offers unique opportunities to capture birds in action—whether diving for fish, taking flight, or displaying courtship behaviors. The shallow waters and lush vegetation create perfect conditions for up-close shots of species like the Black-tailed Godwit, Northern Pintail, and Purple Heron. With local boatmen guiding photographers through the wetlands, Mangalajodi promises an immersive experience, capturing the raw beauty and dynamic moments of wetland birdlife in motion.

WHY VISIT MANGALAJODI

Birdwatching Paradise

Mangalajodi is home to over 200 species of birds, both resident and migratory, offering an unparalleled birdwatching experience for enthusiasts and photographers alike.

Unique Action Moments

Witness thrilling predator-prey interactions, like herons catching frogs or Brahminy Kites swooping in to snatch prey, making every visit a dynamic wildlife spectacle.

Up-close Birding Experience

The shallow waters allow for close encounters with wading birds, perfect for detailed observations and photography, especially of species like Black-tailed Godwits and Stilts.

Eco-friendly Boat Safaris

Explore the wetlands on peaceful boat safaris guided by local boatmen, offering a serene way to observe birdlife without disturbing their habitat.

Ideal Winter Destination

Mangalajodi is at its best from November to February when migratory birds flock to the wetlands and water levels are perfect for birding and photography.

Itinerary

Day 0: Arrival in Bhubaneswar & Transfer to Mangalajodi

Night

    • Arrive in Bhubaneswar by evening and meet with the group.
    • Depart by private vehicle for Mangalajodi (2-hour drive).
    • Upon arrival, check into an eco-friendly lodge and rest for the night to prepare for the next day’s photography adventures.

Day 1: Exploring Mangalajodi Wetlands

Early Morning

    • Begin with a boat safari to capture birds in the soft morning light, focusing on slow-shutter panning techniques for birds in motion.
    • Photograph species like Black-tailed Godwits and Purple Herons up close.

Mid-Morning

    • Return to the lodge for breakfast, followed by a session on creative photography tips and techniques for backlit shots and action moments.

Afternoon

    • After lunch, head out for another boat safari. Capture dramatic action moments like herons catching prey and Brahminy Kites swooping in for the kill.

Evening

    • Enjoy a sunset boat ride, focusing on backlit shots of birds and beautiful golden hour compositions.

Night

    • Return to the lodge for dinner and a post-processing session, where you’ll refine and enhance your images from the day.
    • Overnight at the lodge.

Day 2: Full Day of Photography

Early Morning

    • Another early boat safari to make the most of the morning light.
    • Capture intimate action shots and behavior of waders and other birds.

Mid-Morning

    • After breakfast, participate in a hands-on workshop on composition, lighting, and framing to take your photography to the next level.

Afternoon

    • After lunch, enjoy a short break followed by a guided boat ride focused on capturing unique action moments and creative compositions.

Evening

    • Sunset shoot to capture silhouettes and backlit moments.

Night

    • Dinner and a final post-processing session to review your best shots and apply finishing touches.
    • Overnight at the lodge.

Day 3: Final Morning Safari & Departure

Early Morning

    • A final boat safari to capture any missed species or moments.
    • Utilize all techniques learned to create unique, memorable shots.

Mid-Morning

    • Return to the lodge for breakfast, followed by a photo review session where you’ll receive personalized feedback on your work.

Late Morning

    • Check out and depart for Bhubaneswar, arriving by early afternoon.
    • End of tour.
    • All transfers (Bhubaneswar-Mangalajodi-Bhubaneswar)
    • Accommodation for 2 nights at eco-friendly lodges
    • All meals (from Day 1 breakfast to Day 3 Lunch)
    • Guided boat safaris and photography support
    • Post-processing and photo review sessions
    • Travel to Bhubaneswar
    • Personal expenses
    • Camera equipment rental (if required)
    • Personal transfer to Mangalajodi in case the arrival time at Bhubaneswar doesn’t match our schedule
    • Pack your photography gears properly
    • Pack Light colour or camouflage clothes while visiting the jungle
    • Carry a minimum of 2 battery for your camera, preferably 3
    • Recommended to carry Binoculars

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