Overview
Join our Bhutan Birding Tour - 9 Days and explore the best of birding in Bhutan. This carefully crafted itinerary takes you through scenic valleys and forests, offering chances to spot rare Himalayan species, including the black-necked crane. Perfect for nature lovers, our birding tours in Bhutan combine wildlife watching with rich cultural experiences.
Tour Highlights
- Discover the stunning valleys of Thimphu, Punakha, Phobjikha, and Paro.
- Enjoy the beautiful tweets of a variety of bird species throughout the tour.
- Embark on a scenic hike to the Kungchutse Monastery, offering breathtaking views and the opportunity to spot various bird species.
- Tailor the tour to your specific requirements and interests, ensuring a personalized and unforgettable birding experience in Bhutan.
General Information
Duration: 9 days/ 8 nights
Start/ End: Paro/ Paro
Tour Route: Thimphu - Punakha - Phobjika - Paro
Tour customize: Absolutely! (Tell us your specific requirement in the inquiry form)
What's Included
- Private air-conditioned transfers with driver and English-speaking local guides in each city
- Accommodation with daily breakfast
- All meals as per itinerary (local cuisine, Western food on request)
- Entrance fees, permits, and zone fees as per itinerary
- Domestic air tickets
- Bottled drinking water throughout the tour
What's Excluded
- International flights and airport taxes (Visa)
- Personal travel insurance
- Other meals not indicated above
- Surcharges and compulsory dinners (if any)
- Beverages in restaurants where meals are included
- Gratuities to guides and drivers
- Personal and other expenses such as porterage, bar bills, and laundry not stated in the itinerary
Detailed Itinerary of Bhutan Birding Tour
Before landing off at the international airport, you have an opportunity to enjoy the stunning view of the Paro Valley with the green terraced field below while sitting on the comfortable seat. After completing all procedures, our representative will be waiting to warmly welcome you and pick you up to the hotel. Take a short rest, then together head to the suburbs in the capital city – Thimphu, like Upper-Motithang and the northern end of the Valley (Cheri, Doedena, and Begana) in the afternoon.
Start the Bhutan birding tour with the Upper-Motithang area, a good area to witness several popular bird species such as the Rufous Fronted Tit, Sparrow Hawk, Rufous-bellied Woodpeckers, Hoopes, Nepal House Martin, and Hill Myna. Besides enjoying the birding trip, you will visit the Tashichu Dzong, and the Giant Buddha Statue before turning back to the hotel for the night.
Overnight at the hotel.
Accomodations: Tailored to guest preferences (e.g., luxury, boutique, or budget)
Meals: Flexible to your taste
Get up early and enjoy the trip outside Thimphu where you surely pass through the rich vegetation of fir, pine, rhododendron, apple trees and make sure that you do not miss to witness the Red-Billed Chough that is frequently seen in this area.
Continue the journey to the Cheri, Dodema and Begana areas where provide the best birding spots in the Valley as you will immerse yourself in the areas fulfilled with the sound of tweet from many bird species like Ibisbills, Sandpipers, Crested-Pie kingfishers, Red-rumped Swallows, Long-Tailed Minivets, Grey Wagtails, Yellow-Billed, Blue Magpies, Spotted Nutcrackers, White-Bellied Yuhina, Red-Billed Choughs, Black-Browed Tits, Upland Pipits and so many of others.
After being satisfied, you then visit some of the tourist attractions like the Memorial Chorten, the Choki Traditional Art School, the Institute of Traditional Medicine Services, the weekend market and enjoy archery – the national sport of Bhutan, as part of your unforgettable Bhutan bird watching tour.
Overnight at the hotel.
Accomodations: Tailored to guest preferences (e.g., luxury, boutique, or budget)
Meals: Flexible to your taste
Having breakfast, then head to the east where dochula pass situated. Once there, you can admire the breathtaking vistas of the whole Himalayan mountain range while standing on the border between Bhutan and Tibet. What’s more, do not forget that this area is also a heaven for bird-watchers as when you hike through the fir, birch, and rhododendron forest, you will reach the place where many species of bird thrive, making it a highlight of birding tours in Bhutan.
Continue heading to the Lungchutse Monastery then witness Ward’s Trogon, the most prized sighting in this area. During enjoying the journey, you may bump into other birds like Spotted Nutcracker, Large Hawk-Cuckoo, Darjeeling Woodpecker, Yellow-Billed Magpie, Chest-Tailed Minla, Collard Blackbird, Ultramarine, Flycatcher, and Brown Bullfinch.
In the afternoon, make your way to the bird-rich subtropical valley of Punakha. On reaching the destination, stop for a while to explore the edge of a forest and agricultural land in a nearby village.
On your way heading to the Valley, there will be your chance to witness several subtropical species of bird that can be commonly seen here like Red-headed Trogon, Wedge-Tailed Pigeon, Fire-capped Tit, White-Gorgeted Flycatcher, and other rare species such as Yellow-vented Warbler, Magpie Robin, Green Magpie, and Osprey.
Accomodations: Tailored to guest preferences (e.g., luxury, boutique, or budget)
Meals: Flexible to your taste
This area is a destination that is renowned for the critically endangered White Bellied Heron.
Today, after having breakfast, you will continue your Bhutan birding tour. Stop and attentively behold the impressive Punakha Dzong, the most beautiful Dzong in Bhutan, then head to the forests of the upper Punakha valley where converges bird species as Bay Woodpeckers, Red-headed Trogons, Wedge-Tailed Pigeons, Fire-Capped Tits, White-Gorgeted Flycatchers, rare Yellow Vented Warblers, Magpie Robins, Green Magpies, Ospreys, River Lapwings, Rubby Shelducks, and Eurasian Wigeon. Make sure that you keep your eye out of a variety of skulkers like Spotted Elachura and Pygmy Wren-Babbler, and two of Bhutan’s three species of Tesia.
Accomodations: Tailored to guest preferences (e.g., luxury, boutique, or budget)
Meals: Flexible to your taste
Today, you will depart for Phobjikha. On reaching the destination, stop for a while to discover the edge of a river channel and scan the forests for Flycatchers and Wedge-Tailed Green Pigeons. The place is also home to many other species that you may fall in love with them like Carlet Finch, Black Drongo, Chestnut-Bellied Nuthatch, Slaty-Backed Forktail, Gorgeted Flycatcher, White-Throated Laughingthrush, Eurasian Jay, Wedge-Tailed Green Pigeon, Mountain Imperial Pigeon, Verditer Flycatcher, and so on.
If you travel between October and March, the famed Black-Neck Cranes will be waiting for your appearance. In the afternoon, you will stop at the Black-Neck Crane Center and if time is permitted, it’s time for bird-watchers leisurely stroll around the glacial Phobjikha Valley and enjoy the beautiful tweet of White-Throated Laughing thrushes, Mountain Imperial Pigeons, Slaty-backed Forktails, Rusty-Flanked Tree Creepers, White-Browed Bush Robins, and White-Winged Grosbeaks make their home. This serene setting is a true highlight of any Bhutan bird watching tour. Once there, remember that do not miss the century-old Gangtey Gompa overlooking the valley.
Accomodations: Tailored to guest preferences (e.g., luxury, boutique, or budget)
Meals: Flexible to your taste
Get up early in the morning and make your way to Pele La Pass as this is the best time to witness some adorable birds which are Satyrs Tragopan, Blood Pheasant, Khalij Pheasant, Himalayan Monal, Yellow-Billed Magpie, Chest-Tailed Minla, Collard Blackbird, and Ultramarine Flycatcher. Once there, hop on the car to drive to Paro. On reaching the area, many birding stops along the way are waiting for you.
Accomodations: Tailored to guest preferences (e.g., luxury, boutique, or budget)
Meals: Flexible to your taste
Get up early to witness the sunrise (if you want), then your first day in Paro begins with a walk along the Pho Chhu riverbank to the Drukyul Dzong area where you will encounter an array of species of birds like Fire-Capped Tits, Spotted Laughing Thrush, and Brown Dipper - a perfect introduction to birding in Bhutan.
Furthermore, it will be your chance to visit famous religious sites like Rinpung Dzong, Ta Dzong, Dumtse Lhakhang, Kichu Lhakhang – the oldest temple in Bhutan.
Overnight at the hotel.
Accomodations: Camp base
Meals: Flexible to your taste
Once again, get up early and hike to the iconic Taktsang Monastery (the Tiger’s Nest Monastery) for owning your best spotting the area of avian inhabitants. Being known as the most popular hiking trails; then, the later you start to hike, the more crowded and difficult your hiking trail will be. Thus, you have better starting the bird-watching tour with the glorious sunrise and admire Brown Dippers, Spotted Laughing thrushes, Fire-Capped Tits, and so on.
In the afternoon, visit the Paro river as it is another perfect destination for bird-watchers. Once there, it’s time for you to witness the Ibisbill which has been existed throughout the year and if you are lucky enough, you will see Black-faced Laughingthrushes, Brown Dippers, Spotting Laughingthrushes, and Fire-Capped Tits - a memorable highlight of your Bhutan birding tour.
Later, drive back and enjoy your last nightlife in Paro.
Accomodations: Camp base
Meals: Flexible to your taste
Time to say goodbye Bhutan. Enjoy your last moments with breakfast at a cafeteria. Leisurely walk around or do some shopping. Before your flight home, about 2 hours, our representative will be waiting to pick you up at your hotel and transfer you to the international airport. The trip ends, we hope that you had the best moment with our Bhutan Birding Tours. Thank you so much for going with us and see you next time in Bhutan tours.
Emily Scott – UK –
From start to finish, the Bhutan birding tours was well-organized and unforgettable. We explored lush forests and rivers where I spotted over 30 bird species, including the stunning Fire-Capped Tit. The guide's passion for nature made every moment insightful. Bhutan’s charm and birdlife make this tour truly exceptional.
Lily Taylor – France –
As someone from France, this birding tours in Bhutan opened my eyes to the unique birdlife and culture of Bhutan. The hike through Phobjikha Valley was unforgettable, with sightings of Mountain Imperial Pigeons and Rusty-Flanked Tree Creepers. If you love birds and adventure, don’t miss this opportunity.
Ella Wright – Switzerland –
My experience with this birding tours in Bhutan exceeded expectations. The landscapes were breathtaking, and the bird diversity was incredible. I finally saw the Ibisbill and Black-faced Laughingthrush! Bhutan’s tranquility combined with a great guide created the perfect birding escape. Would love to return in another season.
Emma Young – Australia –
As someone from Australia, this bird watching in Bhutan opened my eyes to the unique birdlife and culture of Bhutan. The hike through Phobjikha Valley was unforgettable, with sightings of Mountain Imperial Pigeons and Rusty-Flanked Tree Creepers. If you love birds and adventure, don’t miss this opportunity.
Liam Clark – UK –
I’ve done birding trips all over the world, but this Bhutan birding tour was one of the best. Peaceful landscapes, friendly locals, and expert guidance made it special. The highlight was spotting the White-Winged Grosbeak at sunrise. A magical experience I’ll cherish forever.
Ethan Lewis – UK –
From start to finish, the Bhutan birding tour was well-organized and unforgettable. We explored lush forests and rivers where I spotted over 30 bird species, including the stunning Fire-Capped Tit. The guide's passion for nature made every moment insightful. Bhutan’s charm and birdlife make this tour truly exceptional.
Noah King – Germany –
Even if you're new to birding, this Bhutan birding tour is a perfect introduction. I came from Germany with just a pair of binoculars and left with a heart full of awe after seeing a Rusty-Flanked Tree Creeper in its natural habitat.
Emma Lewis – Sweden –
Our Bhutan birding tour was full of surprises! On day four, we saw a White-Throated Laughingthrush chasing insects—it was such a lively scene. Bhutan's birdlife is vibrant, and the scenery just adds magic. I'm from Sweden, and this was unlike any birding I've done.
Emily Walker – Switzerland –
What made this Bhutan birding tour stand out was the flexibility. Our guide adjusted the schedule so we could spend extra time by the Pho Chhu river, where I spotted a Fire-Capped Tit! Bhutan is now high on my list of birding destinations.
Thomas Green – USA –
This Bhutan birding tour offered a peaceful escape from my busy life in the USA. Watching the mist rise over the forest as I spotted a Brown Dipper for the first time was surreal. I loved how the guide shared both bird facts and Bhutanese legends.
Jack Brown – USA –
From the cheerful calls of laughingthrushes to the quiet strength of Bhutan’s landscapes, this Bhutan birding tour gave me stories I’ll tell for years. I came from the USA expecting birds, and left with peace.
Benjamin Wright – USA –
This Bhutan birding tour is perfect for anyone seeking off-the-beaten-path birding. I’ve done safaris and rainforest hikes, but trekking to Gangtey Gompa while watching birds glide above Phobjikha Valley was next-level. Bhutan’s raw beauty moved me deeply.
Lily Johnson – Canada –
I joined this Bhutan birding tour mainly for the Black-necked Cranes, but ended up falling in love with Bhutan’s peaceful valleys and kind people. As a birder from Canada, the mix of Himalayan birds and cultural insight was priceless.
Emma Wilson – USA –
Our 9-day adventure birding in Bhutan was simply unforgettable. We saw the Himalayan monal and blood pheasant. The guides were professional and passionate. I’d highly recommend these Bhutan birding tours to fellow American nature lovers.
Lucas Moreira – Brazil –
This was a dream Bhutan bird watching tour. We spotted over 150 species. Everything from logistics to meals was top class. I never imagined bird watching in Bhutan could be this exciting.
Claire Dubois – France –
I truly enjoyed the peaceful mountains and birdsong during our birding tours in Bhutan. It was serene and rich in wildlife. This Bhutan birding tour is a hidden gem for any European birder.
Ethan Thompson – Australia –
Our birding in Bhutan trip exceeded expectations. The guides were exceptional and lodges were charming. The best part was seeing satyr tragopans. I’ll be recommending these Bhutan birding tours to mates back home.
Olivia Chen – Canada –
This birding tours in Bhutan experience was magical. The landscapes were pristine, and the birds diverse. As a Canadian birder, I found the Bhutan birding tour both educational and rejuvenating.
Mateus Carvalho – Brazil –
Wonderful Bhutan bird watching tour. We even saw a black-necked crane. The guides were so knowledgeable. This bird watching in Bhutan journey is a must for birders from Brazil.
Isabella Rossi – Italy –
Such a rewarding birding in Bhutan holiday. I saw species I never imagined. The team behind these Bhutan birding tours made every moment smooth and special. Highly recommended for Europeans.
James Miller – USA –
An outstanding birding tours in Bhutan experience. Every day brought a new highlight. The Bhutan birding tour team took great care of us. Birders from the US will love this.
Sophia Nguyen – Australia –
The best Bhutan bird watching tour I’ve ever joined. The diversity of birds was mind-blowing. This bird watching in Bhutan experience is well worth the long flight from Australia.
Alex Tremblay – Canada –
I loved every minute of our birding in Bhutan adventure. We spotted a satyr tragopan and several unique flycatchers. These Bhutan birding tours are a treat for any serious birder.
Helena Müller – Germany –
Birding tours in Bhutan offered me the chance to see Himalayan species I had only seen in books. The Bhutan birding tour also included cultural visits that made it even more special.
Andrew Johnson – USA –
Fantastic birding in Bhutan journey. Our guide was a true expert and spotted rare birds effortlessly. I’ve done many Bhutan birding tours, and this was by far the best organized.
Carolina Silva – Brazil –
The Bhutan bird watching tour was well-paced and full of surprises. We loved the hospitality and the diversity of species. I highly recommend bird watching in Bhutan to all Brazilian bird lovers.
Hugh Campbell – Australia –
This birding in Bhutan trip was everything I hoped for. From the black eagle to blood pheasants, we saw it all. Bhutan birding tours never disappoint.
Emily Brown – Canada –
A peaceful and inspiring birding tours in Bhutan experience. The mountains, forests, and birds were simply breathtaking. The Bhutan birding tour staff were incredibly helpful and kind.
Victor Gomes – Brazil –
Bhutan bird watching tour gave me one of the best birding weeks of my life. The bird watching in Bhutan landscape was stunning and full of life. Thank you for this unforgettable trip.
Marie Lefevre – France –
I had always dreamed of birding in Bhutan, and this trip exceeded all expectations. The Bhutan birding tours team knew where to find rare species, and the scenery was amazing.
Liam O’Connor – Ireland –
Birding tours in Bhutan are a must for birdwatchers. The Bhutan birding tour we joined was seamless from start to finish, and the bird sightings were incredible.
Chloe Taylor – Australia –
My Bhutan bird watching tour included views of the Himalayan monal and blood pheasants. Bird watching in Bhutan is now on top of my favorite travel experiences.
Daniel Roy – Canada –
If you love birding in Bhutan, this tour is for you. The Bhutan birding tours itinerary included forest walks, high mountain passes, and great food.
Beatriz Santos – Brazil –
We enjoyed the birding tours in Bhutan so much. Our guide pointed out over 100 bird species. The Bhutan birding tour gave us a real taste of nature and culture.
John Anderson – USA –
Birding in Bhutan was the highlight of my year. The Bhutan birding tours team was well-prepared and friendly. We got to see some amazing birds.
Ella White – UK –
Our birding tours in Bhutan were filled with excitement and discovery. The Bhutan birding tour was both informative and relaxing. Great experience for European birdwatchers.
Ben Foster – Australia –
Bhutan bird watching tour was a fantastic blend of birding and culture. Bird watching in Bhutan gave me a chance to connect with nature in a way I hadn't before.
Sarah Dubois – France –
Birding in Bhutan felt like a spiritual retreat. The Bhutan birding tours offered stunning views and rare sightings. Truly a European bird lover’s paradise.
Jason Lee – USA –
I joined birding tours in Bhutan last spring. The Bhutan birding tour was a great way to explore the region and learn more about its birdlife.
Laura Martins – Brazil –
Bhutan bird watching tour was extraordinary. We hiked through lush valleys and spotted colorful birds. Bird watching in Bhutan is a must for Brazilian adventurers.
Mark Evans – Canada –
Birding in Bhutan was a journey through beauty and biodiversity. The Bhutan birding tours crew made everything easy and enjoyable.
Grace Hill – Australia –
I was blown away by the birding tours in Bhutan. The Bhutan birding tour brought me close to nature like never before. A unique Australian-friendly adventure.
Thiago Mendes – Brazil –
Bhutan bird watching tour gave me a once-in-a-lifetime view of Himalayan bird species. Bird watching in Bhutan was worth every moment.
Emily Grant – USA –
I can’t recommend birding in Bhutan enough. The Bhutan birding tours were well run, and the bird sightings were phenomenal.
Felipe Azevedo – Brazil –
We explored remote forests during our birding tours in Bhutan. The Bhutan birding tour was perfect for Brazilian travelers seeking wildlife and peace.
Anna Novak – Poland –
I loved everything about birding in Bhutan. The Bhutan birding tours were professional, and the guide was full of knowledge. Best trip of the year.
David Smith – USA –
A birding tours in Bhutan experience I’ll never forget. The Bhutan birding tour introduced me to some of the most stunning birds I’ve ever seen.
Sophie Clarke – Australia –
If you’re thinking about doing a Bhutan bird watching tour, go for it. Bird watching in Bhutan was everything I’d hoped and more.
Martin Dupont – France –
A brilliant birding in Bhutan tour. The Bhutan birding tours team were kind and organized. I’d recommend it to anyone in Europe who loves birding.
Julia Ferreira – Brazil –
We went deep into Bhutan’s nature during our birding tours in Bhutan. The Bhutan birding tour helped us reconnect with nature.
Nathan Green – Canada –
Bhutan bird watching tour was a peaceful and enlightening journey. Bird watching in Bhutan is now my favorite birding destination.
Rachel Adams – UK –
Birding in Bhutan gave me memories for a lifetime. The Bhutan birding tours included so many unique bird species and comfortable stays.
Bruno Costa – Brazil –
I never expected such an amazing birding tours in Bhutan experience. The Bhutan birding tour was filled with rare sightings and breathtaking scenery.