Birding Tour – 7 Nights 8 Days
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Embark on an extraordinary 8-day birding expedition across Bhutan with Bhutan Tropical Tours and Travel. This specialized tour is meticulously designed for avid birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts seeking to explore Bhutan’s diverse avian habitats and discover its rich biodiversity.
Tour Highlights:
- Expert Guides: Led by knowledgeable birding guides with expertise in Bhutan’s bird species, ensuring an insightful and educational experience.
- Varied Habitats: Explore a range of habitats, from lush forests and alpine meadows to subtropical valleys, offering diverse birdwatching opportunities.
- Rare Species: Encounter a variety of rare and endemic bird species, including the Himalayan Monal, Satyr Tragopan, and the elusive Black-necked Crane.
- Cultural Immersion: Beyond birdwatching, immerse yourself in Bhutan’s unique culture with visits to monasteries, temples, and traditional villages.
- Comfortable Accommodation: Stay in comfortable lodges and guesthouses, providing a blend of modern amenities and local hospitality.
- Scenic Landscapes: Enjoy stunning views of Bhutan’s pristine landscapes, from snow-capped mountains to serene valleys, enhancing your birding experience.
- Photography Opportunities: Capture stunning birding moments against the backdrop of Bhutan’s breathtaking scenery, perfect for wildlife photography enthusiasts.
Additional Information:
- Best Time to Visit: Optimal birding seasons are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), offering pleasant weather and abundant bird activity.
- Visa and Permits: Ensure you have a valid tourist visa and necessary permits arranged through Bhutan Tropical Tours and Travel for seamless travel across Bhutan.
- Safety and Comfort: Travel with peace of mind with our commitment to safety, comfort, and environmental responsibility throughout your birding expedition.
Embark on a memorable birdwatching journey in Bhutan with Bhutan Tropical Tours and Travel, where every moment is an opportunity to discover the kingdom’s avian wonders amidst its stunning natural beauty.
Day 1: Arrival in Paro – Explore Paro Valley
- Arrival in Paro: Upon arrival at Paro International Airport, you will be warmly greeted by our team from Bhutan Tropical Tours and Travel and transferred to your hotel.
- National Museum of Bhutan: Begin your exploration with a visit to the National Museum of Bhutan, housed in the historic Ta Dzong (Watchtower), offering insights into Bhutanese culture, history, and biodiversity.
- Paro Rinpung Dzong: Visit Paro Rinpung Dzong, a fortress-monastery known for its stunning architecture and religious significance, situated strategically overlooking the Paro Valley.
- Lunch in Paro: Enjoy a traditional Bhutanese lunch at a local restaurant, experiencing the authentic flavors of Bhutan.
- Acclimatization: Spend the afternoon acclimatizing to the altitude and leisurely exploring Paro town, known for its quaint streets, shops offering local crafts, and peaceful atmosphere.
- Drukgyel Dzong Ruins: Optionally, visit the ruins of Drukgyel Dzong, a historic fortress that once defended the Paro Valley against Tibetan invasions, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
- Evening at Leisure: Relax at your hotel or take a stroll in the serene surroundings of Paro Valley, soaking in the natural beauty and preparing for the birding adventure ahead.
- Dinner: Enjoy a delicious dinner at your hotel, featuring Bhutanese dishes and international cuisine.
- Overnight in Paro: Rest and rejuvenate in preparation for tomorrow’s journey into the heart of Bhutan.
- Cultural Insight: Throughout the day, gain cultural insights into Bhutan’s traditions and way of life, setting the stage for deeper exploration during the tour.
Day 2: Paro to Thimphu – Birding in Thimphu Valley
- Drive to Thimphu: After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to Thimphu, Bhutan’s bustling capital city, passing through picturesque landscapes dotted with prayer flags and terraced fields.
- Cheri Monastery Hike: Optionally, take a hike to Cheri Monastery, a serene retreat nestled in the hills above Thimphu, offering birdwatching opportunities amidst peaceful surroundings.
- Kuensel Phodrang Nature Park: Visit Kuensel Phodrang Nature Park, home to the iconic Giant Buddha Statue that overlooks the Thimphu Valley, with chances to spot various bird species in the lush surroundings.
- Tashichho Dzong: Explore Tashichho Dzong, the seat of Bhutanese government and a prominent religious site, renowned for its intricate architecture and cultural significance.
- Lunch in Thimphu: Enjoy a delightful lunch at a local restaurant in Thimphu, sampling Bhutanese delicacies and international cuisine.
- Memorial Chorten: Visit the Memorial Chorten, a stupa built in memory of Bhutan’s third king, offering opportunities for birdwatching in its serene gardens.
- Bhutan Postal Museum: Optionally, visit the Bhutan Postal Museum to learn about Bhutan’s unique philatelic history and postage stamps, showcasing the country’s culture and biodiversity.
- Craft Bazaar: Explore the Craft Bazaar in Thimphu, where local artisans display and sell traditional crafts, textiles, and handmade goods.
- Dinner: Enjoy a cozy dinner at your hotel or a local restaurant, recounting the day’s birding experiences and cultural discoveries.
- Overnight in Thimphu: Relax and unwind in your comfortable accommodation, reflecting on the day’s birding highlights and preparing for tomorrow’s journey to Punakha.
Day 3: Thimphu to Punakha – Birdwatching and Cultural Exploration
- Drive to Punakha: Depart Thimphu after breakfast and drive towards Punakha, traversing the scenic Dochula Pass adorned with 108 chortens and offering breathtaking views of the Himalayan peaks.
- Lamperi Botanical Garden: En route, visit Lamperi Botanical Garden, known for its diverse flora and fauna, including numerous bird species attracted to the garden’s natural habitat.
- Chimi Lhakhang: Visit Chimi Lhakhang, the renowned fertility temple dedicated to Lama Drukpa Kunley, known as the “Divine Madman,” with opportunities for birdwatching in the surrounding rice fields and village.
- Lunch in Punakha: Enjoy a traditional Bhutanese lunch at a local restaurant in Punakha, featuring regional dishes and fresh ingredients.
- Punakha Dzong: Explore Punakha Dzong, the ancient fortress-monastery located at the confluence of Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers, offering birding opportunities along the riverside.
- Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Nunnery: Optionally, visit Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Nunnery, perched on a hilltop overlooking Punakha Valley, with scenic views and chances to spot birds in the surrounding forests.
- Evening Birding: Spend the late afternoon birdwatching along the banks of Mo Chhu river or exploring nearby trails known for their avian diversity.
- Dinner: Enjoy a delicious dinner at your hotel in Punakha, savoring Bhutanese flavors and discussing the day’s birding encounters.
- Cultural Performance: Optionally, attend a traditional cultural performance in Punakha, featuring music, dance, and rituals that showcase Bhutan’s vibrant cultural heritage.
- Overnight in Punakha: Rest and recharge in your accommodation, surrounded by the tranquility of Punakha Valley, anticipating tomorrow’s birding adventures in Phobjikha Valley.
Day 4: Punakha to Phobjikha Valley – Black-necked Crane Sanctuary
- Drive to Phobjikha Valley: Depart Punakha after breakfast and drive to Phobjikha Valley, a pristine glacial valley renowned as the winter habitat of the endangered Black-necked Cranes.
- Gangtey Monastery: Visit Gangtey Monastery, an important religious site overlooking the valley, with opportunities for birdwatching around the monastery grounds and nearby forests.
- Nature Walk: Embark on a nature walk through Phobjikha Valley, exploring its rich biodiversity and bird species attracted to the wetlands and surrounding forests.
- Black-necked Crane Information Centre: Visit the Black-necked Crane Information Centre to learn about conservation efforts and the importance of Phobjikha Valley as a habitat for these majestic birds.
- Lunch in Phobjikha: Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the scenic surroundings of Phobjikha Valley, with chances to spot birds such as the Himalayan Griffon and Fire-tailed Myzornis.
- Explore Local Villages: Interact with local communities in Phobjikha Valley, gaining insights into their traditional way of life and agricultural practices.
- Optional Cultural Experience: Optionally, participate in a traditional butter lamp lighting ceremony at Gangtey Monastery, offering a cultural immersion experience amidst the serene atmosphere.
- Evening Birdwatching: Spend the evening birdwatching around the wetlands and nature trails of Phobjikha Valley, keeping an eye out for rare bird species and enjoying the tranquil surroundings.
- Dinner: Enjoy a hearty dinner featuring local Bhutanese cuisine at your lodge in Phobjikha Valley, sharing stories of the day’s birding adventures.
- Overnight in Phobjikha Valley: Relax and unwind in your comfortable accommodation, surrounded by the natural beauty and peaceful ambiance of Phobjikha Valley.
Day 5: Phobjikha Valley – Birding and Cultural Immersion
- Morning Birdwatching: Start the day with early morning birdwatching in Phobjikha Valley, exploring different birding sites and habitats around the valley.
- Gangtey Nature Trail: Hike along the Gangtey Nature Trail, offering panoramic views of the valley and opportunities to spot various bird species, including the White-bellied Heron and Blood Pheasant.
- Visit Local Farmhouses: Visit local farmhouses in Phobjikha Valley, interacting with farmers and learning about traditional farming techniques and their harmonious coexistence with wildlife.
- Lunch in the Valley: Enjoy a farm-to-table lunch at a local farmhouse, savoring organic produce and homemade Bhutanese dishes prepared with local ingredients.
- Explore Crane Observation Area: Visit the designated Crane Observation and Conservation Area, equipped with viewing scopes for observing Black-necked Cranes in their natural habitat.
- Bhutanese Archery: Optionally, participate in a friendly game of Bhutanese archery with locals, experiencing this traditional sport and cultural pastime.
- Evening Cultural Program: Attend a cultural program featuring traditional songs and dances performed by local artists, providing insights into Bhutanese folklore and traditions.
- Dinner and Stargazing: Enjoy a delightful dinner under the stars, accompanied by traditional music and stargazing in the clear night sky of Phobjikha Valley.
- Overnight in Phobjikha Valley: Retire to your lodge, reflecting on the day’s birding experiences and cultural encounters in this unique valley.
Day 6: Phobjikha Valley to Trongsa – Journey to Central Bhutan
- Scenic Drive to Trongsa: Depart Phobjikha Valley after breakfast and embark on a scenic drive to Trongsa, passing through picturesque landscapes and quaint Bhutanese villages.
- Pele La Pass: Stop at Pele La Pass, a high mountain pass offering breathtaking views of the Himalayan ranges and opportunities for birdwatching amidst alpine meadows.
- Visit Rukubji Village: Visit Rukubji Village, known for its traditional architecture and friendly villagers, with chances to spot Himalayan Monals and other bird species in the surrounding forests.
- Trongsa Dzong: Explore Trongsa Dzong, the impressive fortress-monastery that has played a crucial role in Bhutan’s history, offering panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and mountains.
- Ta Dzong Museum: Visit Ta Dzong, a watchtower museum that now houses a fascinating collection of artifacts, relics, and exhibits showcasing Bhutanese culture and heritage.
- Lunch in Trongsa: Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local restaurant in Trongsa, sampling regional dishes and flavors unique to central Bhutan.
- Bhutanese Textile Weaving Center: Optionally, visit a Bhutanese textile weaving center in Trongsa, witnessing traditional weaving techniques and intricate designs passed down through generations.
- Evening Birding: Spend the late afternoon birdwatching along the banks of Mangde Chhu river or exploring nearby trails known for their avian diversity.
- Dinner: Indulge in a delicious dinner at your hotel in Trongsa, recounting the day’s birding discoveries and cultural experiences.
- Overnight in Trongsa: Relax and unwind in your comfortable accommodation, surrounded by the historical charm and natural beauty of Trongsa town.
Day 7: Trongsa to Paro – Return to Paro Valley
- Morning Departure: Depart Trongsa in the morning and begin the scenic drive back to Paro Valley, retracing your route through the stunning landscapes of central Bhutan.
- Birdwatching En Route: Enjoy birdwatching opportunities along the journey, stopping at various points to observe avian species endemic to the region, such as the Himalayan Monal and the White-bellied Heron.
- Photography at Viewpoints: Pause at picturesque viewpoints along the way, capturing breathtaking vistas of lush valleys, cascading rivers, and distant snow-capped peaks, ideal for scenic photography.
- Visit Kyichu Lhakhang: Upon arrival in Paro, visit Kyichu Lhakhang, a 7th-century temple revered as one of Bhutan’s oldest and most sacred sites, known for its historical significance and serene atmosphere.
- Explore Paro Markets: Explore Paro’s vibrant local markets, browsing through stalls offering a variety of Bhutanese handicrafts, textiles, and souvenirs, perfect for picking up mementos of your journey.
- Dinner: Enjoy a delightful dinner at your hotel in Paro, savoring Bhutanese dishes and reflecting on the birding adventures and cultural discoveries of your tour.
- Overnight in Paro: Retire to your accommodation in Paro, surrounded by the tranquility and natural beauty of the Paro Valley, preparing for your departure the following day.
Day 8: Departure – Farewell to Bhutan
- Final Morning in Paro: After breakfast, take some time to savor your final moments in Bhutan, perhaps taking a leisurely stroll through Paro town or visiting nearby attractions like Paro Dzong or the National Museum.
- Last-minute Shopping: Explore Paro’s local shops and boutiques for any last-minute souvenirs or gifts, ensuring you bring a piece of Bhutanese culture home with you.
- Transfer to Paro International Airport: Transfer to Paro International Airport for your departure flight, accompanied by your tour guide who will assist with check-in procedures and bid you farewell.
- Memories of Bhutan: Depart Bhutan with cherished memories of the country’s avian wonders, cultural richness, and the warmth of its people, leaving with a deeper appreciation for the natural and cultural heritage of the Land of the Thunder Dragon.
If want to know more about the kinds of accommodations we provide, please visit our Accommodations page. Also, for more information about the exact accommodations you will be living in for this particular trip, you can send us an enquiry.
For tour costs, please enquire directly with us.
Due to recent changes in tourism policy, we are in the process of updating all tour costs on our website. We will be happy to provide you with specific tour costs upon request.
For approximate per night charges, please refer to our Terms & Conditions page.
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Birding Tour – Info
- Tour Overview: Explore Bhutan’s diverse birdlife and cultural heritage on an immersive 8-day birding tour with Bhutan Tropical Tours and Travel. Discover endemic species in pristine habitats while experiencing Bhutan’s rich culture and scenic landscapes.
- Customized Itineraries: Enjoy meticulously crafted itineraries designed for birding enthusiasts, featuring prime birdwatching locations such as Bumthang Valley, Trongsa, and Paro. Each day offers opportunities to spot rare species amidst breathtaking scenery.
- Expert Guides: Benefit from knowledgeable birding guides who are passionate about Bhutan’s avifauna and well-versed in local bird habitats. They enhance your experience with insights into bird behavior, calls, and conservation efforts.
- Cultural Immersion: Beyond birdwatching, delve into Bhutanese culture with visits to ancient monasteries, temples like Kyichu Lhakhang, and interactions with local communities. Experience traditional Bhutanese hospitality and customs firsthand.
- Accommodations: Stay in comfortable accommodations ranging from boutique hotels to cozy lodges, selected for their proximity to birding sites and scenic views. Enjoy modern amenities amidst Bhutan’s serene natural settings.
- Transportation: Travel in comfort with private vehicles equipped for birding excursions and scenic drives. Experience seamless transfers between birding sites, ensuring you maximize your time exploring Bhutan’s diverse landscapes.
- Meals: Indulge in delicious Bhutanese cuisine throughout the tour, featuring organic ingredients and traditional dishes. Enjoy meals at local restaurants and lodges, experiencing authentic flavors amidst stunning surroundings.
- Best Time to Visit: The best time for birding in Bhutan is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. These periods offer mild weather, clear skies, and optimal conditions for birdwatching. Spring brings vibrant blooms and active wildlife, while autumn offers ideal temperatures and migratory bird sightings.
- Tourist Visa: All international tourists require a tourist visa to enter Bhutan, facilitated through licensed Bhutanese tour operators like Bhutan Tropical Tours and Travel. Visa arrangements are managed as part of your tour package.
- Minimum Daily Package: Bhutan imposes a Minimum Daily Package rate for international tourists, covering accommodation, meals, transportation, and an official guide. This sustainable tourism fee supports Bhutan’s education, healthcare, and conservation efforts.
- Travel Insurance: Comprehensive travel insurance, including medical evacuation, is recommended for all participants. Ensure your policy covers outdoor activities and high-altitude trekking.
- Safety and Comfort: Your safety and comfort are paramount. Follow guidance from your tour guide, stay hydrated, and acclimatize gradually to Bhutan’s high altitudes. Emergency support is available throughout your journey.
- Departure: Conclude your birding adventure with a departure from Paro International Airport, carrying memories of Bhutan’s avian treasures and cultural marvels. Reflect on your journey enriched by nature, culture, and new friendships.
Experience the beauty and biodiversity of Bhutan through a birding tour that combines wildlife exploration with cultural immersion, curated by Bhutan Tropical Tours and Travel.
- Binoculars are your window to Bhutan’s diverse avian life, helping you spot and observe birds in their natural habitats. Equip yourself with a comprehensive field guide specific to Bhutan or the Himalayan region to enhance your bird identification skills. Capture stunning moments with a camera and telephoto lens, ensuring you have spare batteries and memory cards for uninterrupted photography.
- Dress comfortably in layers with moisture-wicking clothing, including long-sleeved shirts, quick-drying pants, a windproof jacket, and a warm layer for cooler mornings and higher altitudes. Sturdy footwear such as waterproof hiking boots or shoes with ankle support will keep you comfortable during birding walks and treks.
- Protect yourself from the elements with a wide-brimmed hat or cap, sunglasses for UV protection, and high SPF sunscreen and lip balm. Carry a lightweight, durable daypack for essentials like water bottles, snacks, sunscreen, and camera gear during excursions.
- Ensure comfort and safety with insect repellent, personal medications, and basic first aid supplies. Keep essential travel documents including your passport, Bhutanese tourist visa, and travel insurance details accessible. Reduce plastic waste with a reusable water bottle and record bird sightings and observations in a notebook.
- Respect local customs with respectful attire for temple visits and cultural sites. Pack nutritious snacks like energy bars and dried fruits for sustained energy throughout your birding adventures. A small towel or handkerchief and a scarf or shawl for temple visits complete your birding tour essentials in Bhutan.
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