Bhutan Birding & Nature Discovery

Start the day with a guided birding walk along the forested trails around Thimphu, spotting species such as Himalayan Monal, Blood Pheasant, Green-backed Tit, and various woodpeckers. Later, visit the iconic Buddha Dordenma, perched on a hilltop with panoramic views of the valley. In the afternoon, drive to Dochu La Pass (3,100 m) for high-altitude birdwatching, where species like Rufous-breasted Accentor, Minla, and other Himalayan passerines can be seen. Return to Thimphu for overnight stay in a boutique hotel or eco-lodge.

Depart Thimphu in the morning and drive to Punakha via the scenic Dochula Pass. Stop for birdwatching at the pass (3,100 m) to observe high-altitude species such as Himalayan Monal, Minla, and Rufous-gorgeted Flycatcher. Continue to Punakha Valley, renowned for its lush subtropical forests and riverine habitats. In the afternoon, visit Punakha Dzong and explore nearby riverbanks and forest edges for species like Common Kingfisher, White Wagtail, and other riparian birds. Check into your boutique lodge or eco-hotel in Punakha for overnight stay.

After breakfast, drive from Punakha to the serene Phobjikha Valley, a glacial valley known for its rich biodiversity and seasonal visitors like the Black-necked Crane (Nov–Feb). Along the way, enjoy changing landscapes from subtropical forests to temperate pine and fir zones. Upon arrival in Gangtey, explore the wetlands and forested areas for birds such as Spotted Nutcracker, Yellow-billed Blue Magpie, and various pheasants. Visit the Gangtey Monastery in the late afternoon for a cultural experience amid breathtaking scenery. Overnight stay in a boutique lodge or eco-lodge in Gangtey.

Spend a full day exploring the natural beauty and rich birdlife of Phobjikha Valley. Begin with a guided walk along the Gangtey Nature Trail, which winds through pine forests, wetlands, and scenic viewpoints. Look for species such as White-browed Bush Robin, Chestnut-tailed Minla, Eurasian Wren, and, during crane season, Black-necked Cranes. In the afternoon, visit a traditional local farmhouse to learn about the valley’s culture, or continue birding along forest edges and riverbanks for additional sightings. Capture the valley’s landscapes and bird species with photography stops throughout the day. Overnight stay in Gangtey.

After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive from Gangtey to Bumthang, Bhutan’s cultural heartland and a hotspot for bird diversity. The journey passes through alpine forests, rivers, and valleys, offering opportunities to spot birds such as Himalayan Swiftlet, Eurasian Tree Sparrow, and Oriental Turtle Dove from the vehicle. Upon arrival in Bumthang, visit Jakar Dzong, a historic fortress, and spend the afternoon birdwatching along riversides and forest edges, looking for species like Rufous-necked Hornbill, Beautiful Nuthatch, and various laughingthrushes. Overnight stay in a boutique lodge or eco-hotel in Bumthang.

Spend the day exploring Bumthang’s forests, rivers, and cultural sites. Begin with a guided morning hike through Thangbi Valley or along the trails near Burning Lake, ideal for spotting rare species like Rufous-necked Hornbill, Ward’s Trogon, Golden-breasted Fulvetta, and Fairy Bluebirds. In the afternoon, immerse yourself in Bhutanese culture with visits to Kurjey Lhakhang or Tamshing Monastery, surrounded by serene natural beauty. Finish the day with riverside birdwatching along the Chamkhar River, where species such as the Brown Dipper and Plumbeous Water Redstart are often seen. Overnight stay in a boutique lodge in Bumthang.

After breakfast, transfer to Bumthang Airport for a domestic flight to Paro. Upon arrival, if time allows, enjoy a last birding stroll near the Paro Chhu River or foothills of Tiger’s Nest, spotting species like Ibisbill, Brown Dipper, and Plumbeous Water Redstart. Then proceed to Paro International Airport for your onward international flight to Kathmandu or another destination.