Wings of the Kingdom: Bhutan Bird Watching Adventure
2
3
Bird Identification- 1: Satyr Tragopan, 2: Beautiful Nuthatch, 3: Chestnut-crowned Laughingbrush, 4: Blood Pheasant
Â
1
4
Bhutan is a global biodiversity hotspot, home to over 678 species of birds, including the rare Black-necked Crane and the elusive White-bellied Heron. This 12-day journey takes you through diverse altitudinal zones, from subtropical jungles to alpine forests, offering unparalleled opportunities for ornithologists and nature lovers alike.
Guided by our specialist birding experts, you will venture into the heart of the kingdom’s river systems and high passes. Between observing vibrant Tragopans and Monals, you’ll experience the spiritual serenity of ancient dzongs, making this a journey of both discovery and soul through the Land of the Thunder Dragon.
12-Day |Â Birding Itinerary - summary
Day 1: Arrival & Paro Valley Welcome
Your journey begins in Paro, spotting Ibisbills and Black-tailed Crakes by the river. After seeing Hodgson’s Redstarts, we hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery to find Flycatchers, Laughingthrushes, and Woodpeckers.
Day 7: Journey Back to Bumthang via Trongsa
Take same road back to Trongsa. On the way do birding and cover-up what we have missed. Overnight: Tingtibi
Day 2: Thimphu Valley & Waterbirds
Day 8: Bumthang to Yongkola via Phrumshingla National Park
Ascend the alpine meadows of Chele La (3800m) to spot high-altitude rarities like the Himalayan Monal, Blood Pheasant, and Kalij Pheasant. This pristine habitat hosts unique species including the Alpine Thrush, Blue-fronted Redstart, and various Rosefinches. After a day of elite birding, continue to Thimphu.
Travel toward Yongkola through the heart of Phrumshingla National Park, a prestigious biodiversity hotspot. Traverse the 3,800m high pass to encounter Blood Pheasants, Himalayan Bluetails, and Barwings. This premier sanctuary offers elite birding opportunities amidst alpine forests, also home to the elusive Red Panda. Overnight: Bumthang
Day 3: Dochula Pass & Royal Botanical Park
Sunrise at Dochu La (3,150m) offers mountain views and sightings of the Fire-tailed Myzornis and Great Parrotbill. We then traverse pristine forests seeking the rare Ward’s Trogon and diverse laughingthrushes. The day concludes with a visit to the iconic Punakha Dzong for our evening stay. Overnight: Punakha
Day 9: Birding the Lower Ridges of Phrumshingla National Park
Explore Phrumshingla National Park’s wet forests via Limithang Road. At dawn, seek the Ward’s Trogon, Beautiful Nuthatch, and Bhutan Laughingthrush—essential targets for expert birders. Guided by specialists, track rare Partridges, Wren-Babblers, and Parrotbills. Observe Golden-breasted Fulvettas and Broad-billed Warblers before relaxing in Yongkola for the night.
Day 4: Expedition to Trongsa via Pelela Pass
On the path to Trongsa, seek the Yellow-rumped Honeyguide and Ward's Trogon. At Pelela Pass, scan for Satyr Tragopan and various alpine Rosefinches. The afternoon drive offers sightings of the Crested Kingfisher, Brown Parrotbill, and the endemic Bhutan Laughingthrush.
Day 10 – Return from Tingtibi to Trongsa
Delve back into Phrumshingla National Park’s high reaches for another chance to glimpse the Collared Grosbeak and Red-headed Bullfinch. This final mountain sweep targets rare tits, warblers, and any elusive species or Red Pandas missed before. Overnight: Bumthang
Day 5: Journey to Zhemhgang - Bhutan's Biodiversity Dzongkhag
In the morning Birding Around Trongsa and the drive down to Tingtibi. On the way birding at Koshala, scan for Spot-winged Starling, Orange-bellied Leafbird, White-Browed Piculet, Bay Woodpecker, Barbets, White-capped Redstart, and some other Species. Overnight: Tingtibi
Day 11 – Trongsa to Thimphu Journey
Begin with a dawn excursion to Tharpling Monastery to observe the majestic Himalayan Monal, White-winged Grosbeak, and vibrant Rosefinches. After encountering these high-altitude treasures, we will transition back toward Paro, enjoying several strategic birding stops along the scenic mountain route.
Day 6: Full-Day Tiingtibi Birding Excursion
Traverse the lush Zhemgang valley to seek the Beautiful Nuthatch, Violet Cuckoo, and Pin-tailed Green Pigeon. We also scan for the Chestnut-breasted Partridge and Rufous-faced Warbler, while beginning our search for elusive bamboo specialists hiding within these dense, spectacular forests. Overnight: Tingtibi
Departure
Day 12 – Departure from Bhutan
JUST
CLICK!
We invite you to contact Ziibba Travel to refine every detail of this prestigious Bhutan bird watching itinerary, ensuring a journey that is as singular and profound as the Kingdom itself.