Week-long Bhutan birding tour

Upon arrival at Paro International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by a representative from Trogon Travels, dressed in traditional Bhutanese attire. After a brief introduction, you will be transferred to your hotel for check-in and some time to rest.

Later in the afternoon, embark on your first birding excursion along the scenic Paro River. This area offers excellent opportunities to spot several sought-after species, including the Ibisbill, Hodgson’s and Plumbeous Water Redstarts, Black-tailed Crake, various Kingfishers, and Snipes.

Return to the hotel in the evening for a welcome dinner and a briefing on the upcoming birding adventure.

After an early breakfast, drive to Chele La Pass (3,988m / 13,084 ft), one of Bhutan’s highest motorable passes. The pass offers stunning panoramic views of the Himalayan peaks and is a prime birding location. Here, you'll search for high-altitude species such as: Blood Pheasant, Kalij Pheasant, Himalayan Monal, Satyr Tragopan, Spotted Nutcracker, White-winged Grosbeak, Rosefinches and Yuhinas.

Enjoy a packed lunch or tea amidst the alpine forests. Later, descend and drive toward Thimphu, Bhutan’s charming capital city, birding en route through mixed forests and river valleys.

Arrive in Thimphu by late evening. Check into your hotel, relax, and if time permits, explore a local site or enjoy some casual city birding before dinner.

After breakfast, depart Thimphu and drive toward Dochula Pass (3,100m / 10,170 ft), a stunning mountain pass adorned with 108 chortens and offering panoramic views of the eastern Himalayas. The mixed evergreen forests here are ideal for high-altitude birding.

Key target species include: Fire-tailed Myzornis, Fire-tailed Sunbird, Ward’s Trogon, Red Crossbill 

Continue birding at the Royal Botanical Park in Lamperi, Bhutan’s first botanical park, known for its biodiversity and tranquil forest trails. It provides excellent opportunities to spot both resident and migratory birds.

Later, descend into the subtropical valley of Punakha, birding en route through lush forests. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and relax for the evening.

Today, enjoy a full-day birding excursion to Tashithang, located on the edge of Jigme Dorji National Park, one of Bhutan’s most biodiverse regions. The lush, subtropical forests here provide ideal habitats for a wide variety of bird species.

Target species for the day include: Spotted Elachura (a rare and ancient passerine), Slaty-bellied Tesia, Large and Small Niltavas, Great and Golden-throated Barbets, Various warblers, flycatchers, and other forest dwellers. 

The trail follows the Mo Chhu river and winds through dense vegetation, offering rich photographic opportunities and excellent chances to observe both birds and butterflies.

Return to Punakha by late afternoon. Evening at leisure or optional birding around the hotel.

After an early breakfast, begin your journey toward Nobding, birding along the rich forested corridor of the Punatsangchhu Valley and through the remote village of Sha Woche. This route offers varied habitats ranging from riverine forests to broadleaf and mixed temperate woodlands.

Today’s birding highlights include: Mountain Hawk-Eagle, Himalayan Cutia, Slender-billed Scimitar Babbler, Assorted Laughingthrushes (including Striated and Chestnut-crowned), Asian Emerald Cuckoo and Fire-capped Tit

This scenic drive provides not only excellent birding but also insights into rural Bhutanese life. Enjoy birding stops en route, with a packed lunch or picnic in a forest clearing.

Arrive in Nobding by late afternoon, check into your lodge, and relax. Optional evening birding around the area if time permits.

Begin the day with early morning birding around Nobding, a rich birding zone known for its mixed forests and mid-elevation species. Spend the morning exploring nearby trails in search of forest birds, including laughingthrushes, yuhinas, warblers, and other mixed flocks.

Later in the afternoon, drive gradually toward Pelela Pass (3,400m / 11,155 ft), a prime high-altitude birding location. This area is one of the best places in Bhutan to spot: Satyr Tragopan, Himalayan Monal, Himalayan Vulture

Scan the ridges and open meadows as you ascend, and enjoy spectacular mountain views along the way.

In the evening, continue to the beautiful Phobjikha (Gangtey) Valley, a glacial valley and important conservation area. Check into your lodge and prepare for birding in this special region tomorrow.

After breakfast, visit the Crane Information Center in Phobjikha Valley, where you can learn about the conservation of the endangered Black-necked Cranes, which migrate here during the winter months. The center also offers insights into the valley’s unique ecology and the community’s role in protecting its natural heritage.

After the visit, begin your scenic drive back to Paro, retracing your route through mountain passes and river valleys. Upon arrival in Paro, check in to your hotel and take some time to rest and refresh.

In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner featuring Bhutanese cuisine, followed by a relaxed stroll through Paro town, where you can shop for souvenirs or simply soak in the local atmosphere.

After breakfast, your guide will transfer you to Paro International Airport for your onward flight.

Take with you unforgettable memories of Bhutan’s serene landscapes, vibrant birdlife, and warm hospitality. Your Bhutan birding adventure concludes here—Tashi Delek and safe travels!