Birding and Buddhism in the Kingdom of Bhutan

Birding and Buddhism in the Kingdom of Bhutan​

Bhutan has been protected by both its isolation within the Himalayas and the topography of its mountainous land, resulting in over 70% of the land remaining forested with approximately 25% protected by 10 National Parks. The diverse range of environments varies from sub-tropical at 150m to alpine over 4,000m, supports a natural habitat, and a wide range of ecosystems with rich and varied bird-life, flora, and fauna.

Our 7WB leader will have the help of Bhutanese local expert guide who is an accredited naturalist and birder who will ensure that your trip through this varied and beautiful landscape is full of birding excellence.

In brief, our tour begins in the West Bhutan where Snow Pigeons feed in fields of newly sown crops, Wallcreeper can be seen amongst the ancient buildings and elegant Ibisbill feed along clear snowmelt waters of the Pa Chhu. In alpine meadows around Chele La pass (3,822m), Himalayan Monal, Blood Pheasant, and Collared Grosbeak are frequently seen. Continuing to Punakha, the Crested Kingfisher and migrant waterbirds feed in the Puna Tsang Chhu, which is also home to the critically endangered, White-bellied Heron.

For six days our crew will cater hot breakfasts and lunch at prime birding locations for you to enjoy in these pristine environments whilst birding.

We will also spend some time seeing the amazing architecture, meeting the local people and visiting Tigers Nest Monastery and the majestic Punakha Dzong- expanding your interests but not compromising your main object.

For 2023 we shall extend the tour to 8 days and travel through mixed evergreen and broad-leafed forests to Phobjikha we find the beautifully plumaged Fire-tailed Myzornis, Mrs. Gould’s Sunbird and the rare Ward’s Trogon.

The area around Phobjikha is home to some 300 Black-necked Cranes that winter in this beautifully glaciated valley while other species such as brilliant Spotted Laughingthrush, Satyr Tragopan, Wood Snipe and Great Parrotbills can also be found within the valley.

There are 680 species of birds in Bhutan and we will help you discover as many of them as time allows. Check the detailed itinerary.

A 4 day extension will be offered  for those with more time to have more time for the stunning Satyr Tragopan and additionally get Beautiful Nuthatch and Rufous-necked Hornbill, which are easier to get in Bhutan than anywhere else.