21 nights 22 days
Daily Tour
6 people
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21-Night Ultimate Birding Expedition in Bhutan
– A Deep Dive into Avian Diversity and Himalayan Wilderness
Embark on an extraordinary 21-night birding journey across Bhutan, one of the last great strongholds of biodiversity in the Eastern Himalayas. This extended expedition is designed for serious birders, photographers, and nature lovers seeking in-depth exploration of Bhutan’s most diverse and remote birding habitats.
Covering a broad range of altitudes and ecosystems—from subtropical forests and alpine meadows to river valleys and high mountain passes—you’ll search for some of Bhutan’s most iconic and elusive species, including the White-bellied Heron, Satyr Tragopan, Ward’s Trogon, Beautiful Nuthatch, and the Black-necked Crane (seasonal). Over the course of three weeks, expect to encounter 350+ bird species, with opportunities for rare sightings and mixed-species flocks.
The route spans Paro, Thimphu, Punakha, Phobjikha, Trongsa, Zhemgang, Bumthang, and the lush southern foothills, including Tingtibi and Samdrup Jongkhar—each region offering distinct birdlife and habitats. Travel with experienced birding guides and enjoy well-paced days for both birding and cultural immersion.
Along the way, visit ancient monasteries, observe vibrant village life, and experience Bhutan’s legendary hospitality. With a mindful balance of wildlife, landscape, and tradition, this 3-week journey delivers the most comprehensive birding experience Bhutan has to offer.
Your birding adventure begins as you cross the India-Bhutan border and arrive in Samdrup Jongkhar, a bustling trade hub in southern Bhutan. Nestled in the tropical broadleaved forests of eastern Bhutan, this region is a haven for birdwatchers. The town, where the local Sharchok dialect is widely spoken, offers a warm introduction to Bhutan’s rich cultural and natural diversity. Spend your first night here, immersing yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of this eastern gateway. Explore the lush forests and nearby areas, where a spectacular array of birds awaits. Look for the striking Lineated Barbet, the dazzling Asian Fairy Bluebird, and the elegant Black-naped Monarch. The dense foliage is alive with the calls of Rufescent Prinia, Lesser Racket-tailed Drongo, and Large Woodshrike. Near water bodies, you may spot the Common Kingfisher, Crested Kingfisher, and Black-backed Forktail, while open areas host birds like Common Myna, Chestnut-tailed Starling, and Jungle Myna. The Indian Pond Heron, Little Egret, and Grey Wagtail add to the diversity of this birding hotspot. This birding paradise sets the tone for an unforgettable journey through Bhutan’s diverse ecosystems, offering a perfect blend of avian wonders and cultural richness.
After a night in Samdrup Jongkhar, your birding journey continues as you head to Morong, a two-hour drive through the upper limits of warm broadleaf forests. Along the way, birding stops will extend your travel time, offering opportunities to spot more avian treasures. Keep an eye out for the vibrant Crimson Sunbird, the elusive Blythe’s Kingfisher, and the majestic Great Hornbill. Other highlights include the Yellow-footed Green Pigeon, Ashy Woodswallow, and White-throated Bulbul. The forests also host babblers like the White-browed Scimitar Babbler and Striped Tit-Babbler, while the skies are patrolled by the Oriental Honey Buzzard and Asian Palm Swift.
A full day of birding on the way will reward you with a stunning variety of species. Look for the Little Bunting, Brownish-flanked Bush Warbler, and the striking Rufous-bellied Eagle. The forests are alive with the calls of the Rufous-throated Partridge, while the vibrant Cutia and Crimson-breasted Woodpecker add splashes of color to the canopy.
After an early start, you will spend the whole day birding around Morong and Doethang, exploring lush forests and open grasslands. The morning will be filled with sightings of vibrant species like the Rufous-necked Hornbill and Ward's Trogon. Post-lunch, you drive past Morong Campsite, making short stops to spot more birds, including the elusive Beautiful Nuthatch and flocks of Scarlet Minivets. The journey offered breathtaking views of the Himalayan foothills and dense rhododendron forests. By late afternoon, we reached Narphung, where we set up camp amidst serene surroundings. The evening was spent relishing the day's highlights, with the calls of Himalayan owls echoing in the distance. A perfect blend of birding and nature immersion in this biodiverse paradise.
Leaving Narphung Campsite early, you will embark on a day of birding with several stops along the way. The route will offer diverse habitats, from dense forests to open fields, perfect for spotting a variety of species. Highlights include the stunning Fire-tailed Myzornis, the vibrant Rufous-throated Wren-Babbler, and the rare Satyr Tragopan. As you approach Wamrong, the landscape transitioned to subtropical forests, where we encountered flocks of laughingthrushes, minivets, and the striking, Yellow-vented Warbler. The area around Wamrong was particularly rich in birdlife, with sightings of the elusive Ward's Trogon and the Beautiful Nuthatch. Each stop will reveal new surprises, making the journey as rewarding as the destination. By late afternoon, you wrapped up your birding adventure, enriched by the incredible biodiversity and the serene beauty of the Eastern Himalayas. A day filled with unforgettable avian encounters and breathtaking scenery.
Begin your day with an exhilarating hike to a remote spot renowned for hosting the elusive Blyth’s Tragopan, a rare and stunning pheasant found only in this specific area. As you hike through misty forests, the anticipation will grow. Remarkably, this spot is also known to occasionally attract all three tragopan species, making it a birding hotspot. After soaking in this rare encounter, you will descend and drive past Khaling, where you make a short stop to spot the Yellow-rumped Honeyguide, a unique and fascinating species. The drive to Trashigang will offer stunning views of the Eastern Himalayan landscape, with terraced fields and lush valleys. By evening, after you reach Trashigang, reflect on an extraordinary day filled with rare bird sightings and unforgettable moments in one of the most biodiverse regions on Earth. A perfect blend of adventure, discovery, and natural beauty.
After a restful night at a cozy hotel in Trashigang, you will begin your day with a brief stop at Korila, a birding hot spot known for its diverse avian population. Here, we spotted a variety of species, including the striking Maroon-backed Accentor, and the elusive Ward’s Trogon. The lush forests and serene atmosphere made it a perfect start to the day. By midday, we arrived in Mongar town, where we enjoyed a delicious lunch while soaking in the town’s charming ambiance. Post-lunch, we continued our journey toward Yongkola, driving through picturesque landscapes of terraced fields, dense forests, and cascading rivers. Along the way, we made short birding stops, adding more species to our list. By evening, we reached Yongkola, a tranquil village surrounded by breathtaking mountain views. After a day filled with birding and scenic drives, we settled in for the night, eagerly anticipating the next leg of our adventure in the Eastern Himalayas.
A morning drive to Jenila promises a delightful day immersed in nature. As the sun rises, the journey begins, with the serene landscape unfolding outside your window. Upon arrival, the air is filled with the melodious chirping of birds, making it a paradise for birdwatchers. Jenila is home to a diverse range of avian species, offering ample opportunities to spot rare and colorful birds in their natural habitat.
After a refreshing morning of birding, a picnic lunch is served amidst the tranquil surroundings. Enjoy a delicious spread of sandwiches, fruits, and refreshing beverages while soaking in the beauty of the wilderness. The afternoon continues with more birding adventures, exploring different trails and habitats to observe even more species.
Start your day with an exciting morning of birding around Yongkola and Tsamang Road, where the lush forests and diverse habitats offer a fantastic opportunity to spot the elusive Rufous-necked Hornbill and the stunning Beautiful Nuthatch. The tranquil surroundings and rich biodiversity make this a birdwatcher’s paradise, with every turn revealing new avian wonders.
After a rewarding morning, enjoy a relaxing picnic lunch amidst nature, savoring delicious food while soaking in the serene atmosphere. In the afternoon, embark on a thrilling ride along Namling Road, a hotspot for birding enthusiasts. Here, you’ll have the chance to spot the rare Elachura, also known as the Spotted Wren-Babbler, and other fascinating wren babblers. The dense foliage and tranquil environment provide the perfect setting for observing these unique species.
The journey takes you past the scenic Namling area, with planned bird stops along the road to maximize your chances of spotting rare and vibrant species. As you drive through this biodiverse region, keep an eye out for the elusive Elachura and lively wren babblers, among other fascinating birds. The lush landscapes and serene environment make every stop a rewarding experience for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts alike.
By late afternoon, you’ll arrive at the picturesque campsite in Sengor, nestled amidst breathtaking natural beauty. This tranquil spot is perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration. Set up camp, enjoy a warm meal, and relax under the stars, surrounded by the soothing sounds of nature. The day’s adventures, combined with the peaceful ambiance of Sengor, promise an unforgettable experience in the heart of Bhutan’s wilderness.
Today’s adventure takes us to the breathtaking high-altitude belts, where we’ll have the rare opportunity to spot the elusive Red Panda, a true gem of the Himalayas. As we traverse the lush landscapes, we’ll also explore the stunning Rhododendron In-Situ Garden, a vibrant haven of colorful blooms and unique flora. Our journey continues through the majestic Phrumshengla Pass, offering panoramic views and a chance to encounter diverse bird species, including some of the region’s most exotic and rare avian wonders. With over 170 species of birds inhabiting these pristine ecosystems, every moment promises to be a delight for nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers alike. This expedition is a perfect blend of wildlife exploration, botanical beauty, and high-altitude adventure, making it an unforgettable experience in the heart of the Himalayas.
Embark on an early morning expedition to the serene Tharpaling Monastery, nestled in the tranquil Bhutanese highlands. As the first rays of sunlight illuminate the landscape, keep your eyes peeled for the majestic Himalayan Monal, a strikingly colorful pheasant and the national bird of Nepal. Its iridescent plumage glistens in the morning light, making it a true highlight of the journey. The surrounding forests and meadows are also home to a variety of other bird species, including the vibrant Rufous-breasted Accentor, the elusive Spotted Laughingthrush, and the charismatic, White-collared Blackbird. The peaceful ambiance of Tharpaling, with its spiritual aura and pristine natural beauty, provides the perfect backdrop for birdwatching and introspection. As you explore the monastery grounds and nearby trails, the crisp mountain air and the melodic calls of birds create an unforgettable experience. This expedition is a harmonious blend of nature, spirituality, and wildlife, offering a unique opportunity to connect with the Himalayan wilderness.
After breakfast, begin birding along the route, scanning forest edges for early-rising species. Expect to see flocks of Himalayan Bulbuls, Laughingthrushes, and mixed foraging parties of tits and warblers. Make a serious birding stop at Tamala, a known hotspot for mid-altitude species. Here, spend extra time scanning for rarities like the Beautiful Nuthatch, Long-tailed Broadbill, and Black-eared Shrike-babbler. The surrounding broadleaf forest offers excellent opportunities to observe hornbills and woodpeckers.
Continue birding from Wangdigang to Tingtibi, a route rich in avian diversity due to varying elevation and dense forest cover. Look out for species such as Rufous-necked Hornbill, Golden-throated Barbet, and various minivets. The roadside birding can be especially rewarding, so stop frequently to listen and scan tree canopies. The journey is not just about reaching Tingtibi—each stretch presents a chance to observe Bhutan’s exceptional birdlife in its natural habitat.
Exploring the Zhemgang-Dakpai road in Bhutan is a birder’s paradise, offering a unique opportunity to encounter some of the country’s most sought-after avian species. This lush, forested route winds through pristine subtropical and temperate habitats, making it ideal for birdwatching. Among the highlights is the Beautiful Nuthatch, a rare and endangered species with striking plumage and elusive behavior. The Rufous-necked Hornbill, with its impressive size and vibrant colors, is another prized sighting along this route, often spotted perched on high branches or gliding between treetops. In addition to these icons, the area teems with a diversity of woodland birds, including several species of owls—their haunting calls echoing through the forest at dusk. The combination of rich biodiversity, tranquil surroundings, and accessibility makes the Zhemgang-Dakpai road a must-visit for bird enthusiasts and nature lovers seeking a glimpse into Bhutan’s avian treasures.
Today, we will explore the rich birding areas around Berti, Tingtibi, and their surrounding forests and riverbanks. These biodiverse habitats are ideal for spotting a wide variety of forest and riverine species. Keep an eye out for the Asian Emerald Dove, a beautifully iridescent bird often seen foraging on the forest floor. In the dense undergrowth, listen for the chatter of the White-hooded Babbler, a lively species that moves in small, noisy flocks.
One of the key highlights of this area is the opportunity to spot both Greater and Lesser Rufous-headed Parrotbills, fascinating birds often seen in mixed-species flocks among bamboo thickets. We’ll also be scanning for various species of pigeons, including the striking Pin-tailed Green Pigeon and Mountain Imperial Pigeon.
Most importantly, we’ll remain alert for the critically endangered White-bellied Heron, a rare and elusive bird often found along remote river stretches—an unforgettable sight if we are lucky enough to encounter it.
Today, we will explore the Tamala areas before making our scenic descent and drive toward Gelephu, transitioning from mid-elevation forests to the lowland subtropical plains. The Tamala region is rich in birdlife, with mixed broadleaf forests offering chances to encounter species such as Golden-throated Barbet, Long-tailed Sibia, Laughingthrushes, and Yuhinas flitting through the canopy.
This area is also known for its bamboo patches, where we may spot Parrotbills and Bush-warblers, and the dense undergrowth may reveal skulking species like the Pygmy Wren-Babbler or Scaly-breasted Cupwing. Raptors such as the Mountain Hawk-Eagle may be seen soaring above ridges.
As we descend toward Gelephu, the habitat changes into warmer, more humid lowlands, opening possibilities for lowland specialties including Lesser Adjutant, Rufous-necked Laughingthrush, and Green-billed Malkoha. This journey offers not only fantastic birding but also a stunning change in scenery and biodiversity, making it a rewarding day of exploration.
Gelephu, situated in the subtropical lowlands of southern Bhutan, is a biodiversity hotspot and offers a rich variety of bird species. Its warm climate, lush forests, grasslands, and riverine habitats make it an excellent area for birdwatching, especially for lowland and foothill specialties not commonly found in the higher altitudes.
This region is known for species like the Lesser Adjutant, Green-billed Malkoha, Rufous Woodpecker, and Chestnut-headed Bee-eater. The forest edges and open areas may reveal flocks of Minivets, Drongos, and Bulbuls, while the denser woodlands are home to Woodpeckers, Leafbirds, and various Babblers. Wetland patches and rivers around Gelephu are also good places to search for Egrets, Kingfishers, and the Great Hornbill, Oriental pied hornbill and Wreathed Hornbills.
Gelephu serves as a great birding destination, particularly for those looking to expand their species list with lowland residents and migratory birds, making it a rewarding end (or beginning) to a Bhutan birding journey.
Today, your journey will take you through the scenic southern plains, offering a unique opportunity to experience the diverse birdlife of Bhutan’s subtropical lowlands. As you drive, keep an eye out for common yet striking species such as the Jungle Babbler, often seen in noisy groups along the roadside, and the vibrant Indian Roller, known for its brilliant blue wings and acrobatic flight displays.
The open fields, roadside groves, and scattered trees provide ideal habitat for birds like Black Drongo, Pied Bushchat, Asian Koel, and various species of doves and bee-eaters. Short birding stops along the way will allow for better views and photographs, especially in areas rich in bird activity.
A notable stop will be at Darachu, where mixed habitats may offer sightings of species like the Lineated Barbet, Lesser Yellownape, or White-rumped Shama. From there, you’ll continue your drive uphill to Tsirang, transitioning into cooler forests with new birding possibilities ahead.
Today’s journey takes you from the warm, forested slopes of Tsirang up to the cool, temperate highlands of Nobding, offering a beautiful transition through a range of habitats—and with it, a changing birdlife.
As you ascend, keep an eye out for mid-elevation species like the Rufous Sibia, Grey-chinned Minivet, Striated Laughingthrush, and various Barbets and Bulbuls. The drive offers several opportunities for short birding stops, especially near forest edges and river crossings, where you might spot Forktails, Red-vented Bulbuls, and Mountain Imperial Pigeons.
The lush broadleaf forests along the way may also reveal mixed feeding flocks with birds such as Yuhinas, Minlas, and Fulvettas. As you approach Nobding, the air becomes cooler and the forest more temperate, with chances to encounter highland species like the Chestnut-crowned Laughingthrush, Spotted Nutcracker, or Himalayan Bluetail and Ward’s Trogon. This scenic route promises a rich and varied birding experience throughout the day.
This morning, you'll take a scenic drive up to Pelela Pass, one of Bhutan’s most renowned high-altitude birding locations. Sitting at around 3,400 meters, the pass and its surrounding rhododendron and conifer forests are home to some of the Himalayas' most sought-after species.
Key targets here include the stunning Satyr Tragopan, a shy and beautifully marked pheasant that often feeds quietly along mossy forest edges. With luck and patience, you might also spot the vibrant Fire-tailed Sunbird and the jewel-like Fire-tailed Myzornis, both known for their dazzling colors and energetic feeding behavior in flowering shrubs.
The high elevation and old-growth forests also make this a good spot for various owls, especially during the early morning hours. Keep ears open for the calls of species like the Collared Owlet or Himalayan Wood Owl.
Today, you'll journey toward Paro, with birding en route through rich temperate forests and mixed habitats known for several iconic Himalayan species. As you travel, keep an eye out for the dazzling Fire-tailed Myzornis, often found in rhododendron thickets, flitting quickly through moss-laden branches.
Another highlight along the route is the elusive Ward’s Trogon, a stunning and highly sought-after species that prefers dense, mature forests—listen carefully for its soft calls and watch quietly in shaded gullies where it may perch. The towering bamboo stands may also reveal the impressive Great Parrotbill, a heavy-billed, charismatic bird often seen in small flocks.
Other possible sightings include Hoary-throated Barwing, Black-eared Shrike-babbler, and Brown Parrotbill, especially at mid-elevation birding stops.
After a rewarding day of birding, you’ll continue your drive into Paro, where you’ll check into your hotel and have the rest of the evening to relax and prepare for the final leg of your Bhutan birding adventure.
Today marks the final leg of your birding tour in Bhutan, and it promises to be a memorable conclusion.
You’ll begin with an early morning drive up to Chelela Pass (3,988 meters), Bhutan’s highest motorable road, known for its dramatic alpine scenery and unique high-altitude birdlife. Here, you’ll search for species like the dazzling Himalayan Monal, Blood Pheasant, and the striking Fire-tailed Myzornis if not seen earlier. Look out also for Rosefinches, Grosbeaks, and Grandala, especially in the open alpine meadows and scrub.
After descending, the afternoon will be spent exploring the Paro Valley, focusing on riverbanks and marshy areas in search of the enigmatic Ibisbill, a highly prized species found in fast-flowing rivers. You may also come across crakes, sandpipers, and wagtails foraging along the water’s edge.
In the evening, enjoy a relaxed stroll through Paro town, soaking in its charming atmosphere before gathering for a farewell dinner—a perfect way to celebrate an incredible birding journey through the heart of Bhutan.
Our representative will accompany you to the airport and ensure a smooth departure, bidding you farewell with warm wishes after your enriching journey through Bhutan.
| # | Discount group | From adult | To adult | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 2 persons | 2 | 2 | 6% |
| 2 | 3 & above | 3 | 10 | 13% |
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