Birding Into Western Bhutan

Paro | Thimphu | Punakha | Nobding | Phobjikha

7 Days

Tour available date

March-April | 2024

Package Includes
Hotels
Guide
Transportation
Camping crew
SDF & visa
Park fees
2 Person

Per person USD 2850

4-10 Person

Per person USD 1750

  • Tour Details
Tour Details

Day 1- Paro

A warm welcome awaits you as our representative from Wildwing Adventure greets you at the airport terminal. Following a delightful lunch, we will embark on an enchanting expedition in search of water birds, including the elusive Black-tailed Crake, the elegant Ibisbill, the charismatic River Lapwing, and an array of other captivating avian species.

After a day filled with avian wonders, we will retreat to the comfort of our hotel for a restful overnight stay, eager to continue our birding journey in the days ahead.

Day 2- Paro to Thimphu - Birding at Chelela

Today's adventure takes us from Paro to Thimphu, promising a day filled with remarkable bird watching experiences. Our day begins with an early departure from the hotel towards Chelela, boasting the highest motorable road in Bhutan at an impressive 3998 meters. As the day unfolds, we'll be on the lookout for the majestic Blood Pheasants and Satyr Tragopan, along with other avian wonders such as the Himalayan Monal, Kalij Pheasant, White-browed Rosefinch, and the melodious Greenish Warbler, all amidst the breathtaking scenery along the roadside. Returning to our hotel for a satisfying lunch, we then check out and commence our journey to Thimphu, the next stop on our birding expedition. The drive offers awe-inspiring views, with occasional stops for capturing landscapes and photographing birds. Upon checking in to our hotel and enjoying a rejuvenating cup of tea or coffee, our birding exploration continues. We'll focus on discovering common birds in and around the capital, ensuring a fulfilling day of bird watching.

As the day concludes, we retreat to our hotel for a well-deserved overnight stay, eager for more avian encounters tomorrow.

Stay tuned for further discoveries in the capital city!

Day 3- Thimphu to Punakha - Botanical Park and Dochula Pass

Prepare for another exciting day of birding as we journey from Thimphu to Punakha, exploring the Royal Botanical Park and crossing the picturesque Dochula Pass. Following a delightful breakfast, our adventure kicks off with a visit to the Royal Botanical Park. Here, we'll have the opportunity to encounter a diverse array of bird species, including the Slender-billed Oriole, Grey-bellied Cuckoo, Lesser Coucal, Blue-fronted Redstart, Eurasian Jay, Brown Parrotbill, Darjeeling Woodpecker, Streak-breasted Scimitar Babbler, Kalij Pheasant, Rufous-bellied Woodpecker, Tickell’s Leaf Warbler, Slender-billed Scimitar Babbler, Red Crossbill, White-winged Grosbeak, Fire-tailed Myzornis, Yellow-rumped Honeyguide, and more. Our journey continues as we drive through the enchanting Dochula Pass. Keep your eyes peeled for the captivating avian life, and we may encounter additional bird species in this breathtaking landscape. As the day unfolds, we'll arrive in Punakha, surrounded by scenic beauty. Check in to your hotel, and after a day filled with bird watching adventures, enjoy a comfortable overnight stay.

Get ready for more avian wonders as we continue our exploration in Punakha!

Day 4- Punakha to Phobjikha

Get ready for a day filled with birdwatching as we travel from Punakha to Phobjikha, exploring diverse habitats and encountering fascinating bird species.After a hearty breakfast, our day kicks off with a session of scanning water birds in the Punatsangchu area. Keep an eye out for a variety of waterfowl that frequent this region, creating a serene and picturesque scene.Our journey continues as we drive further in search of some elusive and enchanting bird species, including Blyth’s Shrike Babbler, Ward’s Trogon, Himalayan Cutia, Golden-throated Barbet, Yellow-rumped Honeyguide, and other feathered inhabitants of this rich ecosystem. Upon arrival in Phobjikha, be prepared for a breathtaking landscape. The valley is home to the endangered Black-necked Cranes during the winter months. Additionally, you may spot Red-billed Chough, Oriental Skylark, and the charismatic Spotted Nutcracker amidst the stunning surroundings. Check in to your hotel and unwind after a day of birding delights. Enjoy the tranquility of the natural surroundings and the anticipation of more avian discoveries in the days to come. Rest well and look forward to the unique birding experiences that await you in Phobjikha!


Day 5- Phobjikha to Punakha - Pelela Pass

Embark on another day of birdwatching as we journey from Phobjikha to Punakha, exploring the captivating Pelela Pass and its surrounding areas. Rise early for a delightful breakfast before we drive to Pelela Pass, situated at an elevation of 3450 meters. Spend the morning hours birding along the old road of Pelela Pass, where the air is crisp and the landscape is adorned with a variety of bird species. Keep an eye out for the majestic Himalayan Monal, Satyr Tragopan, Spotted Nutcracker, Fire-tailed Myzornis, Dark-rumped Rosefinch, White-browed Shortwing, Stripe-throated Yuhina, Rufous-vented Yuhina, Spotted Laughingthrush, Black-faced Laughingthrush, Golden-naped Finch, Scarlet Finch, White-winged Grosbeak, Eurasian Cuckoo, Himalayan Vulture, Bearded Vulture, and many more. After a rewarding birding session, we'll gradually drive back towards Punakha. Along the way, we'll keep our eyes peeled for other avian wonders, including the Yellow-billed Blue Magpie, Darjeeling Woodpecker, Snowy-browed Flycatcher, Red-tailed Minla, Whiskered Yuhina, White-throated Laughingthrush, and various other birds. As the day concludes, we'll check in to our hotel in Punakha, surrounded by the echoes of the day's birding adventures. Rest well and prepare for more discoveries in the coming days.

Enjoy the magic of Bhutan's birdlife and the scenic beauty of Pelela Pass!


Day 6- Punakha to Paro via Dochula -Paro

As we bid farewell to Punakha, our journey takes us back to Paro through Dochula. Rise early to make the most of the day, revisiting key birding spots and capturing glimpses of species that may have eluded us in previous drives. Our day begins with an early departure, offering a chance to catch sight of any bird species we may have missed during our earlier drives. The journey back provides another opportunity to encounter avian wonders along the way. As we traverse the picturesque Dochula Pass, enjoy the breathtaking landscapes and be on the lookout for any bird species that may reveal themselves in this beautiful setting. Arriving back in Paro, we'll check in to our hotel for a final night in Bhutan. Reflect on the incredible birding experiences and the diverse species encountered throughout the journey. Rest well as you prepare for your departure, cherishing the memories of Bhutan's rich birdlife and the beautiful landscapes.

May the echoes of Bhutan's birding wonders linger as you journey back home.


Day 7-Departure

As your memorable birding journey in Bhutan comes to a close, our representative from Wildwing Adventure will ensure a seamless departure experience. After a restful night in Paro, our representative will escort you to the airport terminal. Reflect on the incredible birding adventures, the diverse avian species encountered, and the breathtaking landscapes that made your Bhutan experience truly unique. As you board your departure, carry with you the cherished memories of Bhutan's natural wonders. Wildwing Adventure extends heartfelt gratitude for choosing us as your guide through the captivating realm of Bhutanese birdlife.

Safe travels, and may the echoes of Bhutan's beauty stay with you until we meet again!