Bhutan is a naturalist’s dream come true and a top destination for bird enthusiasts. Due to its extensive range of altitudinal and climatic conditions, the kingdom harbors an enormous variety of birds within its small territory. A Bhutan birding tour takes you through lush subtropical forests, temperate woodlands, and high-altitude alpine meadows, where an incredible variety of bird species can be observed.
So far, about 760 species of birds have been recorded, but the lists are growing increasingly as systematic birding is undertaken. Among them, one species has been introduced by humans, and fourteen species have been identified as globally threatened by Bird Life International.
The pristine forests, protected national parks, and well-preserved ecosystems make Bhutan a prime destination for a Bhutan birding tour, attracting birdwatchers from around the world. Black-necked crane, White Bellied Heron, Blyth’s Tragopan, Ward’s Trogon, Monal Pheasant, and Rufous-necked hornbill are some of the best bird species found in Bhutan.
Every year people of Bhutan eagerly await the return of Black-necked Cranes. The stately four-foot-tall birds flew from their breeding grounds (Upper Tibetan Plateau to Phobjikha Valley). They migrate to these winter roosting places in November – December and fly back to Tibet in February – March.
To the people of Bhutan, Birds have great meaning: they are heavenly emissaries, avatars of long-gone ancestors and lost loved ones; and are the symbol of longevity, peace, and prosperity. They (birds) are highly respected and culturally so significant that they’re painted on the sides of homes and businesses throughout the country.
Phobjikha Valley’s farmer believes the presence of birds symbolizes healthy crops and prosperity as travelers from different countries visit to witness the birds.
A Bird Watching Tour in Bhutan is an exciting trip that mostly involves easy birding in the Himalayas. It is truly a magnificent experience.
1) Exciting scenic mountain flight with breathtaking views.
2) Chele La Pass is the highest motorable pass in Bhutan.
3) Dochula Pass, stunning 108 Chortens with panoramic Himalayan views.
4) Punakha Dzong and Punthand Dechen Phodrang, historic fortress and monastery.
5) Birdwatching in Tsirang-Galepu, spot Rufous-necked Hornbill, Great Hornbill, and more.
6) Full-day Birding in Gelephu, search for Pied Falconet, Jungle Babbler, Pin-tailed Pigeon, Indian Roller, etc.
7) Birdwatching from Galeyphu-Zhemgang, look for Laughingthrush, Wren Babbler, Tesias, and Parrot Bills and more.
8) Birding in Zhemgang, exploring Rufous-necked Hornbill, Green Pigeon, Shrike Babblers, Nuthatches, and more.
9) Birdwatching from Zhemgang- Trongsa, discover diverse avian species along the route.
Dream Bhutan provides a unique bird-watching tour, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in Bhutan's diverse wildlife. With over 760 bird species, including rare and endangered species. Our tours offer an ideal opportunity to experience the best birding trails in Bhutan's beautiful forests, valleys, and mountain passes. Bhutan has some of the world's most stunning bird species, including the mystical Black-necked Crane and the bright Rufous-necked Hornbill.
At Dream Bhutan, we provide a customized Bhutan birdwatching tour package to take you on a specially curated Bhutan Bird Watching Tour. We also offer a chance to witness the beauty of Himalayan birds while exploring Bhutan’s breathtaking landscapes and rich culture.
Book a Bhutan Bird Watching tour or Contact us today and start your Bhutanese Adventure with Dream Bhutan to experience a Bhutan Birding tour!
The best birding Hotspots in Bhutan are mentioned below:
Phobjikha Valley: The Phobjikha Valley birding tour offers the best spots in Bhutan for the winter habitat of the endangered black-necked cranes. The black-necked crane festival is also held at the Gangtey Monastery in the Phobjikha Valley. This festival is celebrated to raise awareness about the conservation of black-necked cranes which migrate to Bhutan from Tibet during the winter season.
Royal Manas National Park: Oldest National Park is rich in biodiversity and is home to over 360 bird species, which includes the critically endangered White-bellied Heron, one of the world’s rarest herons. Along with Blyth’s kingfisher, a rare and elusive kingfisher species and a globally threatened species, the Rufous-necked Hornbill.
Chele La Pass: Chele La Pass is the highest pass reached by a car. It is home to different species of birds such as pheasant, the colorful Himalayan Monal, Rufous-breasted Bush Robin, Black-eared Shrike Babblers, and Yellow-billed Blue Magpie, Grey-winged Blackbird, Spotted Nutcracker, Gold-billed Magpie.
DochuLa Pass: DochuLa Pass offers bird enthusiasts opportunities to spot species such as the Fire-tailed Myzornis and various yuhinas amidst its rich forests.
Tsirang Forest: Trisang forest is a habitat for species like the Rufous-necked Hornbill, Rufous-throated Wren-Babbler, Golden-breasted Fulvetta, Great Hornbill, and more.
Gelephu: Bhutan’s Gelephu’s subtropical climate supports a variety of bird species including Greater Adjutant Stork-occasionally seen in wetlands near Gelephu, Pallas's Fish Eagle- a rare raptor along with Nuthatch, Pied Falconet, Pin-tailed Green Pigeon, Sultan Tit, Black-backed Forktail, Red-headed Trogon, Black Eagle, Jungle Babbler, Grey-sided Laughingthrush and many more.
Zhemgang: Zhemgang is known for its rich biodiversity. Zhemgang district alone recorded more than 500 species of birds. It offers habitats for species like the beautiful Nuthatch, Rufous-necked Hornbill, Green Pigeon Cutia, White-browed Shrike Babblers, Minals, White-tailed Nuthatch, Chestnut-bellied Nuthatch, and many more.
Trongsa: Trongsa is a central district, with its mix of forested areas and river valleys, provides habitats for species such as Rusty-cheeked Scimitar, Babblers, White-browed Scimitar Babblers, Streak-breasted Scimitar Babblers, Grey-bellied Tesia, Crested Buntings, Long-tailed Shrikes, Prinias, Rofous Woodpeckers, Common Green Magpie, Rufous-bellied Eagle, Mountain Hawk Eagle, Common Kestrel, and Minivets.
Jigme Dorji National Park: Jigme Dorji Park, Bhutan’s best birding sanctuaries, offers home to over 407 bird species which represents about 55% of Bhutan’s total bird species. This park is home to many birds like the White-bellied Heron, Pallas's Fish Eagle, Chestnut-breasted Partridge, Wood Snipe, Black-necked Crane, Bearded Vulture, Himalayan Vulture, Satyr Tragopan, Yellow-rumped Honeyguide, Ward’s Trogon, and Northern Lapwing and many more.
Bhutan offers exceptional bird-watching opportunities throughout the year. Each four seasons is considered a birding season that provides a unique birding experience, with different species becoming more prominent depending on the time of year.
Spring (March to May): Spring is one of the best birding seasons in Bhutan for bird watching as native species are highly active and mandatory birds arrive. The forests and parks come alive with the birdsong, and in this season many species become highly active due to breeding.
During this season you can see the beautiful Nuthatch, Ward’s Trogon, Himalayan Monal, Rufous-necked Hornbill, Satyr Tragopan, and many more. Among them, rare birds of Bhutan and white-bellied Heron are also visible along river sides.
Autumn (September to November): Autumn comes when the monsoon ends and bird activity peaks again. The endangered Black-necked cranes make their arrival from Tibet gracefully in the Phobjikha valley. Even the Black-Necked Crane Festival falls in autumn. This season also offers opportunities to spot the White-Bellied Heron, Himalayan Griffon, Rufous-throated Wren-babbler, and various hornbill species, especially in regions like Zhemgang.
Winter: Winter is the best time to observe Bhutan’s resident birds such as Fire-tailed Myzornis, Golden-breasted Fulvetta, Himalayan Cutia, Spotted Laughingthrush as well as the Black-necked Cranes that remain in the Phobjikha Valley. Birding is best in lower-altitude regions.
Summer: While summer is the monsoon season, bird-watching remains fruitful, especially in subtropical and wetland regions like the Phobjikha Valley. Species such as cuckoos, swifts, green bee-eaters, blue flycatchers, Yellow-Rumped Honeyguide, and Beautiful Nuthatch are active between rain showers.
The best season to spot rare birds of Bhutan varies depending on the species and their migration patterns. Each season offers great opportunities for bird-watching. The timing of your visit should depend on the species you wish to see.
There are some important things that the trekkers need to remember during the Himalayan Bird Watching tour :
1) Always follow the “No Leave Trace” principle to respect Bhutan’s pristine environment by minimizing impacts, avoiding littering and taking all the waste with you, don’t disturb birds, nests, or habitats, and always stick to designated trails to prevent habitat destruction.
2) Always book your trip through a licensed Bhutanese tour operator and birdwatching in certain areas (e.g., national parks, restricted zones ) may require special permits. Don’t forget to carry important documents.
3) Bhutan charges a Sustainable Development Fee of USD 100 per person per day, which supports environmental conservation, infrastructure, and cultural preservation of Bhutan. It is mandatory for all tourists and included in tour packages.
4) Avoid loud noises while birdwatching, as it may disturb both birds and local communities. Always be patient and enjoy the experience as some rare species require long waits or trekking to spot
5) Always prepare the right and necessary gear and carry necessary medications in your carry-on to avoid loss or delays.
6) Bhutan promotes sustainable tourism. So, some birding areas have homestays, which offer a chance to experience local hospitality.
7) Last but not least, if you want to visit Black-necked Cranes. The best place to see them is Phobjikha Valley, where they arrive from Tibet in winter and the peak season is Late October - Early March. The Black-necked Crane festival is held annually on November 11 at Gangtey Monastery.
Day 01: Arrival in Paro
Welcome to Paro International Airport; a representative from Dream Bhutan will receive you outside the terminal hall and drive you to the hotel at Paro.
If time permits, we head for birding to River banks and search for Ibis Bill, Black-tailed Crake, Common Sandpiper, Olive-backed Pipit, and Dark-Throated Thrush.
Day 02: Drive from Paro – Chele La – Paro – Thimphu
After breakfast, we’ll start our Himalayan birding in Paro, Bhutan by driving to Chele La Pass at 3,890m – the highest pass reached by car in Bhutan.
Here, we will witness three different species of Birds – Pheasants, the colorful Himalayan Monal, flocks of Blood Pheasants, and Kalij Pheasant. We can also witness the Rose – finches, Grosbeaks, and Laughing Thrushes.
Then we’ll drive to Thimphu via Paro.
Day 03: Drive from Thimphu – Punakha – 3 hours
After breakfast, we’ll continue our bird-watching in Thimphu. We’ll take a drive to Punakha with a stop at DochuLa Pass (3,150m).
During our birding tour in Punakha, we can witness different species of birds including Fire-tailed Myzornis, Rufous-gorged flycatchers, Rufous-breasted Bush Robin, Black-eared Shrike Babblers, Yellow-billed Blue Magpies, Grey-winged Blackbird, Spotted Nutcracker, Gold-billed Magpie.
After exploration, we continue towards the Punakha valley. After lunch, we’ll visit Punthang Dechen Phodrang and Punakha Dzong.
Day 04: Drive from Punakha – Tsirang Forest – 4 hours
After early morning breakfast, we’ll drive to Tsirang forest – a tranquil forest. Here we will explore the Rufous-necked Hornbill, Great Hornbill, and more.
Today we’ll camp overnight.
Day 05: Birdwatching Tour: Tsirang – Gelephu – 5 hours
In the morning, we proceed to bird in the forest which is a natural home to Nuthatch, Pied Falconet, Pin-tailed Green Pigeon, Sultan Tit, Black-backed Forktail, Red-headed Trogon, Black Eagle, Jungle Babbler, Grey-sided Laughingthrush and many more.
Then, we’ll drive towards Gelephu and stay overnight there.
Day 06: Whole Day Birding Trip at Gelephu
Today we spent our entire day in Gelephu, which is known as a good location to see migrating birds from higher altitudes and India.
Here, we explore diverse bird species like the Pied Falconet, Jungle Babbler, Large Hawk Cuckoo, Pin-tailed Green pigeon, Wreathed and Great Hornbill, Puff-throated Babbler, Indian Roller, and more.
Day 07: Bird Watching Tour from Gelephu – Zhemgang – 6 hours
In the morning, we search to witness Laughingthrush, Tesias, Wren Babbler, and Parrot Bills.
Then, travel towards Zhemgang.
Day 08: Birding in Zhemgang
Today, we explored the Rufous-necked Hornbill, Green Pigeon Cutia, White-browed Shrike Babblers, Minals, White-tailed Nuthatch, Chestnut-bellied Nuthatch, and many more.
Day 09: Birdwatching Trip from Zhaemgang – Trongsa – 6 hours
Today we can witness Rusty-cheeked Scimitar, Babblers, White-browed Scimitar Babblers, Streak-breasted Scimitar Babblers, Grey-bellied Tesia, Crested Buntings, Long-tailed Shrikes, Prinias, Rofous Woodpeckers, Common Green Magpie, Rufous-bellied Eagle, Mountain Hawk Eagle, Common Kestrel and Minivets.
Then, we’ll drive towards Trongsa and stay overnight there.
Day 10: Drive from Trongsa – Paro – 7 hours
After breakfast, we drive to Paro which takes around 7 hours. On the way, we can explore the typical Bhutanese countryside lifestyle and great Himalayan ranges.
Day 11: Final Departure
A representative from Dream Bhutan will transfer you to the Paro International Airport for your final departure.
Why is Bhutan a great bird watching destination?
Bhutan has a diverse range of habitats, from subtropical forests to alpine meadows, supporting around 760 bird species, including rare, near-endemic, and globally threatened species. The country’s strong conservation policies and low human impact on forests make it a paradise for birdwatchers.
What are some rare and endemic birds of Bhutan?
Bhutan has no true endemic bird species but is home to several near-endemic species and a high number of rare and globally threatened birds. some of the rare and near-endemic bird species are:
1) Blyth’s Tragopan (Near-endemic)
2) Ward’s Trogon (Rare, Eastern Himalayas)
3) Beautiful Nuthatch (Highly localized)
4) White-bellied Heron (Critically endangered, less than 100 left in the wild)
5) Rufous-necked Hornbill (Found in lowland forests)
Do I need a guide for birdwatching in Bhutan?
Yes, a licensed guide is required for all foreign travelers in Bhutan. Dream Bhutan is a specialized birding tour operator who provides experienced guides familiar with Bhutan’s bird species.
Do I need a visa to enter Bhutan?
Yes, all international travelers need a visa to Bhutan, which can be arranged through a licensed Bhutanese tour operator. But Indians, Bangladeshi, and Maldivians don’t need a visa to Bhutan.
How difficult is birdwatching in Bhutan?
Birding in Bhutan can involve moderate to strenuous trekking, especially in forested and hilly areas. However, there are also easy-to-access spots like Phobjikha Valley and lowland parks.
Are there birdwatching festivals in Bhutan?
Yes, The Black-necked Crane Festival is held every November in Phobjikha Valley, celebrating the arrival of these majestic birds.
Can I combine birdwatching with cultural sightseeing?
Absolutely, Bhutan’s famous monasteries, fortresses (dzongs), and festivals can be combined with a birding trip. Many birding hotspots are near cultural sites like Tiger’s Nest Monastery and Punakha Dzong.
Here is the detailed itinerary of the Bhutan cultural tour : Bhutan Cultural Tour
How can I book a Bhutan Bird Watching Tour?
You can contact Dream Bhutan for inquiries, bookings, and customized Bhutan Bird Watching tour packages tailored to your preferences.
