Bhutan Birding Tour: A Journey Through Nature and Culture

Upon arrival in Guwahati from Delhi or Kolkata, you will be warmly welcomed by our local representative, who will accompany you on the scenic drive to Bhutan. Once in Bhutan, your guide will take care of visa formalities, giving you time to settle in at the hotel. Depending on your arrival time, you may enjoy a relaxed birdwatching walk around the area, where you can familiarize yourself with Bhutan’s rich avifauna and catch your first glimpses of local birdlife.

Overnight hotel 

Altitude: 350m | Drive: 3hrs 

Our journey begins in the lush, tropical forests of Samdrup Jongkhar and Deothang, regarded as one of the finest birding regions in the Himalayas. These biodiverse forests offer an exceptional opportunity to observe a variety of rare and sought-after species. Highlights of our birding excursions include the striking Wreathed Hornbill, the elusive Blyth’s Kingfisher, and the dazzling Siberian Rubythroat.

As we explore these rich habitats, we will also search for species that are uncommon in other parts of the region, such as the Common Iora, Red-whiskered Bulbul, and Little Spiderhunter. More frequently encountered, yet no less fascinating, are the Greater Necklaced Laughingthrush and Puff-throated Babbler, which can often be observed flitting through the undergrowth. With some luck, we might even encounter the Rosy Starling, a rare visitor recently documented in Bhutan.

Beyond the avian diversity, the Samdrup Jongkhar area is renowned for its wealth of orchids and butterflies, adding vibrant colors and textures to the birding experience. The region’s rich ecosystems promise a memorable immersion in Bhutan’s unique natural heritage, making it a paradise for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts alike. Overnight hotel 

Altitude: 350m – 600m | Drive: 3hrs

Today, our birding adventure takes us to the remote and rarely explored region of Trashigang. Departing from the subtropical town of Deothang, we ascend through rich broadleaf forests, an ideal habitat for diverse birdlife. Our key target species include the elusive Rufous-necked Hornbill, Lesser Cuckoo, Red-rumped Swallow, Pied Harrier, Blue-winged Laughingthrush, Long-tailed Broadbill, and Scaly-breasted Munia.

In the lush Morong Valley, we will search for the globally vulnerable Beautiful Nuthatch and the striking Coral-billed Scimitar Babbler, often accompanied by flocks of Silver-eared Mesia. We’ll also encounter more common but equally delightful species such as the Mountain Tailorbird, White-browed Shrike Babbler, and Long-tailed Sibia moving in mixed flocks.

After enjoying a picnic breakfast amidst nature, we’ll continue our birding along the scenic Melong Dra road, offering spectacular views as we traverse several mountain passes. At Kharung La (2,350m), we’ll keep an eye out for the Crimson-breasted Woodpecker and the vibrant Golden Babbler.

Our journey continues through serene valleys and across Yonphu La Pass (2,570m), descending gradually towards the academic town of Kanglung and Sherubtse College. We end the day in Trashigang, where we’ll rest for the night. Overnight: Hotel in Trashigang

Altitude: 1,200m | Drive: 5 hours

We begin our day early, departing from the hotel to explore the bird-rich landscapes of eastern Bhutan. Our route takes us through the picturesque Sheri Chhu Valley, gradually ascending the famous Yadi Loops—a series of ten dramatic hairpin bends that lead to the village of Yadi.

As we climb through cool broadleaf forests, we’ll make a stop at Kore La Pass (2,450m), an excellent birding hotspot. Here, we’ll search for key species such as the Hill Partridge, Asian Barred Owlet, Grey-sided Laughingthrush, and the brilliantly colored Scarlet Finch.

Descending from the pass, we’ll enter lush forests blanketed with rhododendron undergrowth before arriving in Mongar for a short leg-stretch and casual birdwatching walk.

The highlight of the day awaits as we continue along the renowned Lingmethang Road towards Yongkola, one of Bhutan’s premier birding destinations. In these rich forested valleys, we’ll look for the elusive Tawny Fish Owl, the globally vulnerable Steppe Eagle, and other prized species including the Bhutan Laughingthrush, Hair-crested Drongo, and the melodious Orange-headed Thrush. Overnight: Lodge in Yongkola

Altitude: 1,200m | Drive: 3 hours

The regions of Yongkola, Namling, Tshamang, and Lingmethang are celebrated among the finest birding destinations in the Himalayas and are considered world-class by ornithologists. Over the course of two full days, we will explore the untouched forests of Thrumshing La National Park, following a quiet, winding mountain road renowned for its exceptional birdlife.

This area offers a rare opportunity to encounter some of Bhutan’s most sought-after species. Key targets include the globally vulnerable Chestnut-breasted Partridge, the majestic Rufous-necked Hornbill, and the near-threatened Ward’s Trogon. Other prized sightings may include the elusive Long-billed Thrush, Yellow-throated and Golden-breasted Fulvettas, and the highly secretive Sikkim Wedge-billed Babbler, found in only two known sites in Bhutan.

Our birding exploration will also focus on specialties such as the Long-billed and Rufous-throated Wren Babblers, Himalayan Cutia, Spotted Elachura, and a variety of dazzling species like the Black Bulbul and Gould’s Sunbird.

In addition to the upper reaches of Yongkola, we will descend into the warm broadleaf forests along Lingmethang Road. This lower elevation zone is ideal for spotting colorful gems such as the Red-faced Liocichla, Maroon Oriole, and the secretive Grey-bellied Tesia, among many others.

One evening, we will venture on a short night drive to search for nocturnal wildlife. Highlights may include the Bhutan Giant Flying Squirrel, as well as a variety of owls and frogmouths, including the localized Hodgson’s Frogmouth and the elusive Mountain Scops Owl. Overnight: Lodge in Yongkola

Altitude: 1,200m – 2,900m | Drive: 5 hours (with birding stops)

We will dedicate this day to further birding explorations in Yongkola, Namling, Tshamang, and Lingmethang, revisiting key hotspots to maximize our chances of encountering species we may have missed earlier. By returning to these productive habitats, we enhance our opportunities to spot some of Bhutan’s most elusive and sought-after birds.

This unhurried approach allows us to refine our observations, gain a deeper understanding of the region’s rich avifauna, and enjoy prolonged encounters with both rare and iconic species. With each outing, the diversity and beauty of Bhutan’s birdlife will continue to unfold, making this a rewarding and immersive birding experience. Overnight: Lodge in Yongkola

Altitude: 1,200m – 2,900m|Drive: 5 hours (with birding stops)

We begin our birding adventure in the cool broadleaf forests of the Namling region, where we'll search for rare altitudinal migrants such as the elusive Gould's Shortwing, the distinctive Slender-billed Scimitar Babbler, and the photogenic Bar-throated Siva. Other noteworthy targets include the resident Yellow-rumped Honeyguide, Black-eared Shrike Babbler, Chestnut-bellied Rock Thrush, and the vocal Black-throated Parrotbill.

After breakfast, our journey continues into the Sengor Valley, a renowned hotspot for several iconic Himalayan species. Here, we will focus on finding the elusive Satyr Tragopan, the secretive Solitary Snipe, the dazzling Fire-tailed Myzornis, the localized Bar-winged Wren Babbler, and the brilliantly colored Fire-tailed Sunbird.

We will then ascend to the high-altitude pass of Thrumshing La (3,780m), scanning the alpine meadows and forests for specialties such as the scarce Fulvous Parrotbill, shy Eurasian Woodcock, Rufous-breasted Bush Robin, and both Black-throated and Chestnut Thrushes. As we descend through dense conifer forests, we'll keep a keen eye out for the magnificent Himalayan Monal and flocks of Blood Pheasants, among other montane species like Goldcrest, Whistler’s Warbler, and Himalayan Bluetail.

Our day concludes in the charming village of Ura before descending into the Jakar Valley for an overnight stay. As night falls, we will listen for the distinctive calls of the Himalayan Owl, once considered a subspecies of the Tawny Owl. Overnight: Hotel in Jakar

Altitude: 2,500m – 3,700m | Drive: 5 hours (with birding stops)

We will begin with an early visit to Tharpaling Monastery, where we will have the rare opportunity to observe the unique practice of monks feeding Himalayan Monals, as these birds have grown accustomed to this ritual. In the surrounding area, we will also search for several rare species, including the White-bellied Redstart, vagrant Godlewski's Bunting, Snow Pigeon, Alpine Accentor, Himalayan Beautiful Rosefinch, and Black-faced Laughingthrush. Additionally, we will keep an eye out for flocks of Plain Mountain Finch, Red-billed Chough, and the endemic Black-billed Magpie, which is specific to the Bumthang region.

After breakfast, we will descend into the picturesque Gattsa Valley and continue our journey to Yotong La at an altitude of 3,450 meters. Here, we will search for high-altitude species such as the White-winged Grosbeak, the rare Great Parrotbill, Red-headed Bullfinch, Hume’s Bush Warbler, Whiskered Yuhina, Red Crossbill, Himalayan White-browed Rosefinch, and the fairly common but range-restricted Hoary-throated Barwing.

Upon our arrival in Trongsa, we will visit the historic Trongsa Dzong, built in 1637, and the Ta Dzong, or Watch Tower, which now houses the National Museum.  Overnight: Hotel in Trongsa

Altitude: 2,500m – 1,800m | Drive: 2 hours

We will embark on a serene journey along a forested road toward Tingtibi, where we will keep a keen eye out for Blue Whistling Thrushes, often spotted taking flight from the roadside. As we navigate this scenic route, we will also search for the elusive Spotted Forktail near the enchanting moss-covered waterfalls that dot the landscape. The path is framed by lush mixed broadleaf forests, descending from 2,000 meters to 700 meters, offering the chance to observe the Endangered Golden Langur, frequently seen in small groups along the road.

In the early morning, we will focus our birdwatching efforts on several key species, including the Mountain Hawk Eagle, Crested Goshawk, Barred Cuckoo Dove, and the Wedge-tailed Green Pigeon, which is often found in mixed feeding flocks. We will also look for the Large Hawk Cuckoo, Collared Owlet, and the Great Barbet, the most common barbet species in Bhutan. Additional species to watch for include the Lesser Yellownape, Bay Woodpecker, Long-tailed Minivet, Green-backed Tit, White-throated Laughingthrush, the rare Spot-winged Starling, Ashy Bulbul, Blyth’s Leaf Warbler, Scaly-breasted Wren Babbler, White-tailed Nuthatch, Rusty-flanked Treecreeper, Sapphire Flycatcher, Ferruginous Flycatcher, Large Niltava, Rufous-breasted Accentor, Blue Rock Thrush, Chestnut-headed Tesia, and Tibetan Siskin.

As we approach the warmer subtropical region of Tingtibi, we will continue our search for additional bird species, including the Eurasian Sparrowhawk, Peregrine Falcon, Common Cuckoo, Crested Kingfisher, the vagrant Daurian Redstart, as well as the vibrant Emerald Dove and Rufous-necked Laughingthrush. Overnight: Eco lodge
Altitude: 1,800m – 1,200m | Drive: 5 hours

Early in the morning, we will embark on a drive along the scenic Tingtibi-Panbang stretch, immersing ourselves in the lush bamboo forests as we search for some of the area’s most sought-after birds. Our target species include the White-browed Piculet, the rare Rufous-faced Warbler, and the elusive Pale-headed Woodpecker. We will also keep an eye out for the White-browed Scimitar Babbler, often seen alongside the Lesser Rufous-headed Parrotbill and the White-hooded Babbler, which is endemic to this particular site in Bhutan. Other notable birds we may encounter include Blyth’s Paradise Flycatcher (formerly classified as the Asian Paradise Flycatcher), the fairly common Pin-tailed Green Pigeon, White-rumped Munia, and the rare Smoky Warbler. Along the banks of the Mangde Chhu river, we will be on the lookout for the critically endangered White-bellied Heron, whose wild population is estimated at only 60 individuals.

After enjoying a hot picnic breakfast, we will continue our journey into the warmer core of Royal Manas National Park. The Panbang valley is celebrated as one of Bhutan’s premier birding hotspots, where we may spot the magnificent Great Hornbill (globally vulnerable), the elusive Barred Buttonquail, and the striking Blue-bearded Bee-eater. Other species to observe include Nepal Fulvetta, the stunning White-naped Yuhina, Sultan Tit, Blue-throated Barbet, Grey-chinned Minivet, Bronzed Drongo, the vividly colored Common Green Magpie, Rufescent Prinia, Black-crested Bulbul, the territorial Yellow-bellied Warbler, Chestnut-bellied Nuthatch, and the rare Forest Wagtail. With a bit of luck, we may also find the elusive Rufous-throated Partridge, Collared Falconet, and the near-threatened Rufous-bellied Eagle.

Our hotel in Panbang is nestled within tropical teak forests brimming with birdlife, providing ample opportunities to see all four species of hornbills found in Bhutan. As night falls, we will have the chance to search for owls such as the Spot-bellied Eagle Owl and the more elusive Mountain Scops Owl. Overnight Eco lodge 

Altitude: 1200m | Drive: 3hrs

Today, we will set off on a birdwatching adventure through the tropical forests between Panbang and Nganglam, in search of some of Bhutan’s rarest and most sought-after species. Our target birds include the globally rare Grey Peacock Pheasant, the Buff-breasted Babbler (first recorded in Bhutan during our 2019 birding tour), and the Eye-browed Wren Babbler, which can only be found in Panbang. We will also be on the lookout for the elusive Rufous-vented Laughingthrush, Collared Treepie, Silver-breasted Broadbill, Green Cochoa, Rufous-backed Sibia, Yellow-vented Warbler, the rare Oriental Dwarf Kingfisher, and the Hooded Pitta.

In addition to these rarities, we may encounter more commonly seen birds, such as the Crested Serpent Eagle, Mountain Imperial Pigeon, Spotted Dove, Lineated Barbet, Eurasian Wryneck, Grey-capped Pygmy Woodpecker, Greater Flameback Goldenback, Red-breasted Parakeet, Plaintive Cuckoo, Lesser Racket-tailed Drongo, Great Myna, and the striking Red-headed Trogon (one of the most beautiful trogons in the world), as well as the Black-naped Monarch, Snowy-browed Flycatcher, Asian House Martin, Yellow Wagtail, and White-throated Bulbul. Overnight Eco lodge 

Altitude: 1200m | Drive: 2hrs

This morning, we will explore the forest road leading to the Manas National Park office in Panbang, searching for a variety of birds, including the Large Woodshrike, Chestnut-headed Bee-eater, Cattle Egret, the rare Jerdon’s Baza, the rare Lesser Fish Eagle, Eurasian Collared Dove, Thick-billed Green Pigeon, Indian Cuckoo, Greater Coucal, Savanna Nightjar, Dollarbird, Grey-hooded Warbler, Bank Myna, Slaty-backed Flycatcher, Plain Flowerpecker, House Sparrow, Slaty-backed Forktail, and the rare Citrine Wagtail.

The forests in this area are also home to a variety of mammals, such as the Asian Elephant, Wild Water Buffalo, Clouded Leopard, Wild Boar, Jungle Cat, Sambar, Golden Langur, and Indian Palm Civet, with encounters of any of these species being a significant highlight of the trip.

After breakfast, we will retrace our journey back to Tingtibi, stopping at areas we may have missed on our way in. Overnight Eco lodge 

Altitude: 1200m | Drive: 3hrs

Today, we return to Trongsa from Zhemgang. Along the way, we will stop for birdwatching at various sites, looking for species we may have missed during our previous observations. We will have lunch in Trongsa before heading to the stunning Phobjekha Valley, a sacred winter resting place for the Black-necked Crane.Overnight hotel 

Altitude: 1200m – 2900m | Drive: 6hrs

Today, we will travel along a picturesque mountain road, passing through oak and rhododendron forests draped in lichens, before reaching Lawa La at 3,350 meters. Our descent into the Nobding Valley marks our first birdwatching stop, where we aim to spot Bhutan's rare species like Ward’s Trogon, Rufous-bellied Woodpecker, and the Long-billed Thrush.

After breakfast, we will head to the Punakha Valley, stopping by the Puna Tshang Chhu River to observe water birds such as the endangered Pallas Fish Eagle and Bar-headed Geese, along with rarities like the Indian Spot-billed Duck and Northern Shoveler. Overnight hotel 

Altitude: 2900m – 1200m | Drive: 2hrs

Today, we will explore the Tashithang Valley in Jigme Dorji National Park, beginning with birdwatching in the broad-leaved forests at 1,600 meters. Our goal is to spot raptors such as the Black Eagle, Mountain Hawk Eagle, and Crested Serpent Eagle, as well as rare species like the Red-headed Trogon. We’ll also be on the lookout for other notable species including Nepal Fulvetta, Spotted Elachura, various woodpeckers, barbets, Tesias, and forktails.

As the day warms up, we will visit the majestic 17th-century Punakha Dzong, which is stunningly situated at the confluence of the Mo and Pho rivers. Later in the afternoon, we will search for the critically endangered White-bellied Heron and the globally endangered Pallas’s Fish Eagle. 

Overnight hotel 

Altitude: 1200m – 1500m | Drive: 3hrs

This morning, we will explore the Puna Tshang Chhu valley, seeking various water birds, including Osprey, Bar-headed Geese, Ruddy Shelduck, Gadwall, and several others. We may also spot rarities such as the Pallas’s Gull, along with Kingfishers, Plovers, and Wagtails.

Continuing our journey through the terraced fields of Lobesa, we will arrive at the mixed broadleaf forest of Menchuna, where a short off-road trail will provide additional birding opportunities. Here, we will search for species like the Scaly Thrush, Ashy Drongo, and Golden Bush Robin. After a picnic lunch in this picturesque setting, we will resume our birdwatching before heading to Paro, making a brief stop at Dochu La to enjoy the stunning landscape views. Overnight hotel 

Altitude: 1200m – 2300m | Drive:3hrs

We will set off early in the morning on a journey through ancient high boreal forests, climbing to Chele La at 3,780 meters, the highest point of our tour. We will watch for the Grey Nightjar, typically seen at dawn along the roadside. Upon reaching the pass, we will enjoy stunning views of the majestic Himalayan peaks, including Jhomolhari and Jichu Drake, as well as expansive vistas of the Paro and Ha valleys. During our time in Bhutan, we will have spotted many target bird species, with further opportunities to photograph sought-after species such as the Himalayan Monal, Blood Pheasant, Rufous-bellied Woodpecker, rare Wood Snipe, Himalayan Cuckoo, Rufous-fronted Tit, Greenish Warbler, Spotted Laughingthrush, Red-tailed Minla, Hodgson’s Treecreeper, Red-throated Thrush, Blanford’s Rosefinch, Collared Grosbeak, White-browed Bush Robin, Himalayan White-browed Rosefinch, Yellow-billed Blue Magpie, and flocks of Olive-backed Pipit, White-browed Fulvetta, and Rufous-vented Yuhina.

We will also look for raptors such as the Bearded (Lammergeier) Vulture, Hen Harrier, Long-legged Buzzard, and Brown Parrotbill. After breakfast, we will continue birdwatching in Chele La’s breathtaking landscapes before heading back to Paro. En route, we will stop at the Pa Chhu in search of the elusive Ibisbill, a megaspecies of the Himalayas, and may spot the Black-tailed Crake, rare Mandarin Duck, Rosy Pipit, and Common Snipe, along with more common species like the Oriental Turtle Dove, Brown Dipper, Plumbeous Water Redstart, Hodgson’s Redstart, and Russet Sparrow. Towards evening, drive back to Paro for overnight. Overnight hotel 

Altitude: 2300m – 3988m | Drive: 3hrs

After breakfast, drive for 15 minutes to the starting point of the hike to Takshang Monastery, famously known as the "Tiger's Nest." This site, visited and sanctified by Guru Rimpoche, is one of the most revered pilgrimage destinations in the Himalayas, attracting many great Buddhist masters over the years. The monastery was built in 1692 AD by the fourth temporal ruler of Bhutan, over the cave where Guru Rimpoche and his consort, Khandro Yeshi Tshogyal, meditated. Perched on a rocky cliff that towers 800 meters above the valley, the monastic complex stands at an elevation of 2950 meters above sea level.

On your return, stop at Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the oldest temples in Bhutan. In the evening, visit a local farmhouse for dinner and to try hot stone bath. Overnight hotel 

Altitude at the temple: 3150m | Drive: 15min | Distance from parking and back: 7km 

Transfer to airport for departure