Overview
Bhutan is one excellent destination for bird watching with over 770 species found in the country, and the best times to visit are spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November). Key birding spots include Phobjikha Valley (for Black-necked Cranes in winter), Royal Manas National Park, and Chele La Pass. Popular species to look for include the Rufous-necked Hornbill, Satyr Tragopan, and Himalayan Monal.
Best time to visit
- Spring (March–May): Migratory birds return, and forests are in bloom, making it an ideal time.
- Autumn (September–November): Clear skies and pleasant weather make it great for exploring both valleys and highlands.
- Winter (November–February): Specifically for spotting the endangered Black-necked Crane, which migrates to Phobjikha Valley during this time. 6N/7D – Bhutan Bird Watching Tour
Detailed Itinerary
Upon arrival at Paro International Airport, meet your Bhutanese guide and drive to Thimphu, Bhutan’s charming capital city. En route, enjoy scenic views of pine forests and river valleys—keep an eye out for the Ibisbill and Brown Dipper along the Pa Chu river.
Evening: Leisure walk through Thimphu city or visit the Tashichho Dzong.
Overnight: Thimphu
Early morning drive to Begana and Cheri area, one of the best birding spots near Thimphu. You may spot the Spotted Laughingthrush, Brown Parrotbill, Yellow-billed Blue Magpie, and Rufous-bellied Woodpecker.
Afternoon: Visit Buddha Dordenma viewpoint and explore the city’s cultural sites.
Overnight: Thimphu
After breakfast, drive to Punakha crossing Dochula Pass (3,100m). Stop for bird watching—this area is known for the Fire-tailed Myzornis, Satyr Tragopan, Spotted Nutcracker, and Himalayan Monal.
Afternoon: Descend into the warm Punakha valley, where you might see White-throated Kingfisher and Rufous-necked Hornbill.
Overnight: Punakha
Spend the full day exploring the Pho Chu and Mo Chu riversides, rich habitats for water and forest birds. Look out for Pallas’s Fish Eagle, White-bellied Heron (one of the world’s rarest birds), Crested Kingfisher, and River Lapwing.
Evening: Visit Punakha Dzong, beautifully set between two rivers.
Overnight: Punakha
After breakfast, drive back to Paro with stops en route for birding and photography. The mixed forests along Lamperi and Hongtsho are known for Cutia, Chestnut-bellied Nuthatch, and Streaked Barwing.
Evening: Leisure time at Paro town.
Overnight: Paro
Morning birding trip along the Paro river valley, a great place to spot Ibisbill, Black-tailed Crake, and Himalayan Prinia. Later, visit the iconic Paro Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest Monastery) perched on a cliffside—offering a perfect blend of nature, spirituality, and adventure.
Overnight: Paro
After breakfast, transfer to Paro International Airport for your onward journey.
Your bird watching tour in the Land of the Thunder Dragon concludes with unforgettable memories of Bhutan’s wildlife, landscapes, and warm hospitality.
Tour Inclusions & Exclusions
Inclusions
- Breakfast & dinner daily
- Private vehicle (car/Hiace depending on group size)
- 4★ accommodation on twin/double sharing basis
- Licensed English-speaking Bhutanese guide
- Travel permits & Sustainable Development Fee (SDF)
- Government taxes
Exclusions
- International airfare & visa fee
- Bottled or alcoholic drinks
- Monument & museum entry fees
- Personal expenses (tips, laundry, etc.)
- Travel insurance