50 species of fish, and a host of snakes, lizards, turtles, amphibians and invertebrates. Keoladeo National Park is a veritable paradise for the serious bird-watcher, offering outstanding opportunities to site an amazing variety of rare and common avian species in their natural habitats. The Park’s proximity to Delhi and popular tourist destinations such as Agra, Mathura and Jaipur makes it an irresistible stop over for the general tourist as well. Today, the Park attracts more than a million visitors each year, including some 45,000 from abroad. Keoladeo National Park gets its name from Lord Shiva, whose temple stands stoic and serene  at the heart of the Park. Shiva, is the form of Pashupati- is the protector and lord of the animal kingdom. It is almost as though a higher spirit emanates his protection and blessings over the wondrous oasis of beauty and nature that is the Keoladeo National Park. Along with the sincere conservation efforts that are on in the region-and, indeed, the world- this haven of nature will continue to thrive and be cherished by visitors from across the globe.   For the avid bird-watcher, Keoladeo National Park needs no introduction. It is a place which has drawn them with it’s unmatched sighting opportunities and quaint charm for years- and continues to do so to date.