Tour Overview
Get on an unforgettable journey into the heart of the Himalayas with our “Wings of Bhutan” bird watching tour. Bhutan, a hidden gem nestled in the Eastern Himalayas, boasts an incredible diversity of bird species, from rare Himalayan endemics to majestic raptors and vibrant songbirds. Led by experienced local guides and naturalists, this immersive tour promises unparalleled birding experiences amidst Bhutan’s pristine landscapes, ancient forests, and tranquil valleys.
- This itinerary is customizable based on your preferences and interests.
- The best time for bird watching in Bhutan is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) months when migratory birds are present and weather conditions are favorable.
Critically Endangered birds found in Bhutan:
- White-bellied Heron: Found in rivers and wetlands in Bhutan and Southeast Asia. Critically endangered due to habitat loss, disturbance, and poaching.
- Bengal Florican: A large, ground-dwelling bird critically endangered due to habitat loss from agriculture and development, particularly in Bhutan.
- Baer’s Pochard: A diving duck species breeding in eastern Russia and wintering in South and Southeast Asia, including Bhutan. Critically endangered due to habitat loss, pollution, and hunting.
- White-rumped Vulture: Once common in South Asia but now critically endangered due to diclofenac use. Conservation efforts ongoing in Bhutan and beyond to protect this species.
Bhutan is a birdwatcher’s paradise, boasting a diverse array of bird species, including many that are unique to the region. Some of the unique birds of Bhutan include:
- Black-necked Crane (Grus nigricollis): Considered sacred in Bhutanese culture, the Black-necked Crane is a rare and endangered bird that migrates to Bhutan during the winter months, particularly to the Phobjikha Valley.
- Satyr Tragopan (Tragopan satyra): Also known as the Crimson Horned Pheasant, this stunning bird is native to the Eastern Himalayas and is characterized by its vibrant plumage and distinctive horn-like projections on its head.
- Himalayan Monal (Lophophorus impejanus): The national bird of Nepal, the Himalayan Monal is also found in Bhutan’s forests and alpine meadows. The male of this species is known for its iridescent plumage in shades of blue, green, and copper.
- Ward’s Trogon (Harpactes wardi): Endemic to the Eastern Himalayas, including Bhutan, Ward’s Trogon is a striking bird with a bright red belly, green upperparts, and a distinctive yellow bill.
- Beautiful Nuthatch (Sitta formosa): Found in Bhutan’s mixed coniferous forests, the Beautiful Nuthatch is known for its vibrant blue and orange plumage and its habit of climbing tree trunks headfirst in search of insects.
- Rufous-necked Hornbill (Aceros nipalensis): This large, forest-dwelling hornbill is found in the Eastern Himalayas, including Bhutan. It is known for its distinctive call and colorful plumage, including a rufous neck and a yellow bill with a black casque.
- Fire-tailed Myzornis (Myzornis pyrrhoura): Endemic to the Eastern Himalayas, this small, brightly colored bird is characterized by its fiery red tail and green body. It is often found in rhododendron forests at high altitudes.
Day 1: Arrival in Paro
Day 2: Paro to Punakha
Day 3: Punakha Valley
Day 4: Punakha to Phobjikha Valley
Day 5: Phobjikha Valley
Day 6: Phobjikha Valley to Thimphu
Day 7: Thimphu
Day 8: Departure from Paro
Day 1: Arrival in Paro
- Arrive at Paro International Airport, where you’ll be greeted by your guide and transferred to your hotel.
- Afternoon birding excursion around Paro Valley to spot species such as the Himalayan Monal, Fire-tailed Sunbird, and Rufous-necked Hornbill.
- Welcome dinner and tour briefing in the evening.
Day 2: Paro to Punakha
- Morning drive to Punakha Valley, passing through picturesque landscapes and villages.
- En route, stop at Dochula Pass (3,100 meters) for bird watching and panoramic views of the Himalayas.
- Continue to Punakha and check into your hotel.
- Afternoon birding along the banks of the Pho Chu and Mo Chu rivers, looking for species like the White-bellied Heron, Great Cormorant, and Red-headed Trogon.
Day 3: Punakha Valley
- Full day of birding in Punakha Valley and surrounding areas.
- Visit the lush paddy fields, riverbanks, and subtropical forests to spot species such as the Oriental Pied Hornbill, Crested Kingfisher, and Black-throated Parrotbill.
- Explore Punakha Dzong, a majestic fortress at the confluence of two rivers, and its surrounding gardens for birding opportunities.
Day 4: Punakha to Phobjikha Valley
- Drive to Phobjikha Valley, a designated conservation area and wintering ground for the endangered Black-necked Crane.
- Upon arrival, visit the Gangtey Monastery and take a nature walk in the valley, keeping an eye out for bird species like the Ibisbill, Spotted Laughingthrush, and Yellow-billed Blue Magpie.
- Overnight stay in a cozy lodge overlooking the scenic valley.
Day 5: Phobjikha Valley
- Spend the day exploring the pristine habitats of Phobjikha Valley, home to a diverse range of bird species.
- Visit the Black-necked Crane Information Centre to learn about the conservation efforts for these majestic birds.
- Birding excursions around the valley’s marshes, forests, and grasslands to spot species such as the Himalayan Griffon, Eurasian Woodcock, and White-browed Rosefinch.
Day 6: Phobjikha Valley to Thimphu
- Morning birding session in Phobjikha Valley before departing for Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan.
- En route, stop at scenic viewpoints and birding hotspots for additional sightings.
- Arrive in Thimphu and check into your hotel.
- Evening at leisure to explore the vibrant city center or visit local markets.
Day 7: Thimphu
- Full day of birding in and around Thimphu Valley.
- Visit the Botanical Garden and Nature Reserve to spot species such as the Rufous-breasted Bush Robin, Brown Parrotbill, and Fire-capped Tit.
- Explore the outskirts of Thimphu for opportunities to see the Satyr Tragopan, Himalayan Cutia, and Golden-breasted Fulvetta.
- Farewell dinner with traditional Bhutanese cuisine in the evening.
Day 8: Departure from Paro
- Transfer to Paro International Airport for your onward journey.
- End of the bird watching tour in Bhutan.