Bhutan Birding Tours

Experience the wonders of bird watching in Bhutan. Discover a bird lover’s paradise nestled amidst the Himalayas. Prepare to be amazed as you explore untouched forests, encounter a wide variety of rare and colorful bird species, and soak in the breathtaking natural beauty that surrounds you. With the guidance of knowledgeable local experts, you’ll have the opportunity to witness the incredible biodiversity of Bhutan firsthand.

What sets Bhutan apart is its incredible variety of bird species. With over 745 species from 89 families existing today (July 2019) in a total land area of 38,394 sq. km documented species, including some of the world’s rarest and most elusive birds, the country offers a visual feast for bird watchers. From the vibrant hues of Himalayan monals and sunbirds to the graceful black-necked cranes, Bhutan’s skies are filled with an awe-inspiring array of feathered wonders. 

Our Bhutan birding tour is an exhilarating journey that yields a remarkable assortment of Himalayan specialties. Major targets include the endangered White-bellied Heron, Greater Adjutant, Satyr Tragopan, Himalayan Monal, Blood Pheasant, Chestnut-breasted Partridge, monotypic Ibisbill, Ward’s Trogon, Rufous-necked Hornbill, Yellow-rumped Honeyguide, Coral-billed and Slender-billed Scimitar Babbler, Long-billed, Rufous-throated, and Bar-winged Wren-B Additionally possible species include Wood Snipe, Solitary Snipe, and Gould’s Shortwing.

A must-visit spot for birders is the Phobjikha Valley, where endangered black-necked cranes gather during winter. Witnessing these magnificent creatures gracefully dance in the wetlands is an experience that will leave you spellbound.

Bhutan’s commitment to conservation is evident in its protected areas and nature reserves. These sanctuaries provide a safe haven for birds and offer fantastic opportunities to observe them in their natural habitats. Exploring the valleys of Punakha, trekking through the Bumdeling Wildlife Sanctuary, or venturing into Jigme Dorji National Park will introduce you to an abundance of avian life, accompanied by encounters with other fascinating wildlife.

Local guides and experts are invaluable companions on your bird-watching journey. Their expertise and deep knowledge of the region’s avifauna will enhance your chances of spotting rare species and provide insightful information about Bhutan’s natural treasures.

While the Bhutan Birding tour takes center stage, Bhutan’s captivating landscapes and rich cultural heritage add an extra layer of enchantment to your experience. Take the time to explore ancient monasteries, interact with friendly locals, and savor the country’s delicious cuisine, all while surrounded by the awe-inspiring beauty of the Himalayas.

In summary, bird watching in Bhutan offers an unparalleled adventure, where you can immerse yourself in nature’s wonders. With its breathtaking landscapes, commitment to conservation, and remarkable diversity of bird species, Bhutan is a haven for nature enthusiasts. So grab your binoculars, embrace the sense of awe, and get ready to embark on an extraordinary birding journey in the remarkable landscapes of Bhutan.

  • Day-1-Arrive Paro. Birds you may encounter include Himalayan Monal, Blood and Kalij Pheasant, Yellow-billed Blue Magpie, Grey-crested & Rufous-fronted Tits, Black-faced Laughing Thrush, Collard Grosbeak, White-browed & Dark-rumped Rosefinch, Long-tailed Thrush. Overnight in hotel Thimphu.
  • Day-2 -In the morning birding at Dochhula Pass (3140m). You have a good chance of finding Satyr Tragopan, White-throated, Straited, Chesnut-crowned Laughingthrushes, Darjeeling Woodpecker, Fire-tailed Myzornis, Rufous winged Fulvetta, Hoary-throated Barwing,etc…. . Afternoon do birding at Pachhu area. Overnight in hotel at Punakha..
  • Day-3 In the morning depart to Trongs. Stop at Pelela pass (3325m) and take a birding downhill of a old highway road. , in which you may come across with Himalayan Griffon, Chestnut-bellied Rock Thrush, Grey-sided Bush Warbler, Fire-tailed Sunbird, Great and Brown Parrot bill, etc.. . Overnight in hotel at Trongsa.
  • Day-4- Early in the morning with breakfast and lunch packed proceed to Bumthang. On the way stop for birding in which you may come across with Blood Pheasant, Satyr Tragopan, Fire-tailed Myzornis, Fire-tailed sunbird and Great Parrotbill. Overnight in hotel at Bumthang.
  • Day-5- Drive to Yongkola campsite with the birding.if you are lucky you may see Brown Bullfinch, Scarlet Finch, Grey-winged Blackbird, Brown-throated Treecreeper, Grey-sided Laughingthrush. If time permits bird at Lingmithang area too. Camp at Yongkola
  • Day 6-Drive to Mongar with birding stops. Travelling through untouched forest we stand further chances of Ward’s Trogon, Rufous-necked Hornbill, Greater Rufous-headed Parrotbill, Black-throated Parrotbill, Slender-billed Scimitar Babbler, Broad-billed Warbler, Asian Emerald Cuckoo, Blue-bearded Bee-eater, Crimson-breasted Woodpecker, Long-billed and Bar-winged Wren Babbler, Streaked-breasted and Rusty-cheeked Scimitar Babbler and Bhutan Laughingthrush. Over Night at Mongar.
  • Day-7- After breakfast drive to Trashigang. We will make birding stops en-route. Species might include Grey-winged Blackbird, Brown-throated Treecreeper, Grey-sided Laughingthrush and Little Bunting. Overnight at Trashigang.
  • Day-8-All-day driving with birding stops from Tashigang to Narphung.Today and the following day we have chances of Golden Langur, Beautiful Nuthatch, Red-billed Leiothrix, Red-faced Liocichla, Blue-winged Laughingthrush, Great Hornbill, Green-billed Malkoha. Night Camp- Narphung.
  • Day 9- Birding between Dewathang- Samdrup Jongkhar. Today we will seeing Brownish-flanked Bush-warbler, Rufous-bellied Eagle, Little Bunting, Black Eagle, Emerald Dove, Bronze Drongo, Beautiful Nuthatch, Red-billed Leiothrix, Red-faced Liocichla, Orange-bellied Leafbird, Blue-winged Laughingthrush, Black-nape Monarch, Grey-throated Babbler, Black-crested Bulbul, Oriential Pied Hornbill, Great Hornbill, Green-billed Malkoha. Overnight at Hotel S/ Jongkhar..
  • Day 10-Departure

GUIDELINES FOR TOURISTS

  • 1. Tourism Policy of the Royal Government of Bhutan All tourists must travel on a pre-planned, prepaid, guided package tour. Independent travel is not permitted.
  • 2. Booking & Reservations of tours Book your tours with us. Our associates in Bhutan will operate your tour. Our Tour Manager cum birding guide will be present throughout to ensure service as per itinerary.Your tour will be operated, within the parameters laid down by the Royal Government of Bhutan.To avoid hitches, please book your tour as much in advance as possible. It is necessary to go firm on exact dates of entry and exit, in order to ensure confirmed bookings with Drukair, which offers only 71 seats per flight.
  • 3. How to get to Bhutan By air, Bhutan is approachable only through Drukair from Bangkok, Calcutta, Delhi, Dhaka, Kathmandu and Yangoon.By the land route, you can reach or exit via Phuentsholing, on the Indian border. Thimphu, the Capital, is 06 hrs away from Phuentsholing, whilst the nearest Indian airport of Bagdogra is 04 hrs away. Driving time from Darjeeling is 06 hrs, from Kalimpong it is 05 hrs and from Gangtok in Sikkim it is 08 hrs to Phuentsholing.Please note that whilst you can enter and exit via the air route. You can use the land route either for entry or exit, and not both ways unless there is no seat available on Drukair.
  • 4. Procedure for entry documents
    • Step 1: Book your tour with us. We will arrange for your entry documents and the operation of the tour, with our associates, who are registered in Bhutan. We will intimate the full amount due on your account.
    • Step 2: To process your visa, send the following details by email or fax 1) Full name 2) Gender 3) Date & place of birth 4) Address 5) Passport number 6) Date of issue 7) Place of issue 8) Date of expiry 9) Occupation
    • Step 3. (Simultaneously with Step 2), Electronically transfer full payment, for the tour plus Drukair fare into the designated Royal Government account, to be specified by us.
    • Step 4. Send us fax copy of intimation giving details of transfer of funds. This will enable our associates in Bhutan, to obtain the clearance number for your air ticket from the Bhutan authorities.
    • Step 5. On receipt of intimation of payment, and approval of visa, a clearance number will be provided to Drukair Bhutan Office. On the basis of this number, your confirmed tickets will be dispatched to the outstation office at the place from where you will be boarding the flight into Bhutan. We will reconfirm your tour and intimate you the address and contact numbers of the city office concerned. Tickets can also be delivered at airport, or sent to you by courier. In case you are only returning via air, your tickets will be handed over when you arrive in Bhutan.
    • Step 6. On arrival at Paro airport in Bhutan or at Phuentsholing – if using land entry point, your Bhutan visa will be stamped on your passport, for a fee of USD 45 to be paid by you. Your Tour Manager, and Bhutanese Guide will greet you, as you arrive. All this may sound very complicated – but in practice it works. Our associates in Bhutan will ensure smooth passage. For this we need to send them visa application and full payments, as per Step 2 & 3.
  • 5. Accommodation Hotel accommodation is provided at Thimphu, Paro, Phuentsholing, and Wangdue. At other places, you will stay at lodges, and guest houses with simple neat and clean rooms and toilets. Fully serviced camps will be set up in other remoter locations.
  • 6. Cuisine Indian, Bhutanese, Chinese, and continental dishes are available.
  • 7. Transport Japanese or Korean luxury vehicles with experienced and dependable drivers are provided.
  • 8. Tariff The Royal Government has fixed a standard tariff. This is irrespective of hotel accommodation, lodges or camping. The tariff is USD 250 per night.(For four people an special rate of USD 250 only per night)

(a) The land cost Includes –

Accommodation on twin share

Transport with driver

Trained and licensed guide

All meals

Sightseeing. Ongoing cultural events and festivals

Airport reception, land and airport transfers

Portage, tour leader, staff, camping facilities and all meals on treks / angling trips

(b) The land cost does NOT include –

Airfare and airport taxes

Single room supplement

Bar and laundry

Mineral Water

Visa fee

Sleeping bags and mats whilst camping.

(c) Surcharge

Will be charged for groups of less than 03 persons.
An extra charge of USD 40 per night on tariff is levied on a group consisting of 01 person only and USD 40 per person per night for a group of 02 persons.

(d) Single Supplement

Single occupancy will be provided on request. Single room request supplemental charge of USD 40 per night will be levied.

  • 9. Insurance No insurance is catered for. Please obtain cover for life, baggage and accident.
  • 10. Cancellations All cancellations must be given in writing. Cancellation charges are 10 percent of the tour price within 15 days of the start of the tour. No refund is permissible for a notice period of lesser than 15 days
  • 11. Air Routes Current air routes by Drukair:- These are subject to change at short notice. (a) Bangkok – Paro (b) Calcutta – Paro (c) Delhi –Paro (d) Dhaka – Paro (e) Kathmandu – Paro (f) Yangon – Paro