Birding Western Bhutan

Birding Western Bhutan offers a specialized avian-focused tour that also thoughtfully incorporates captivating cultural highlights. Beyond its primary focus on birdwatching, this tour seamlessly integrates some of the most engaging facets of a cultural tour, providing participants with a comprehensive and immersive experience.

Approximately 72% of the landscape is clothed in a tapestry of vegetation, creating a diverse ecosystem that encompasses a spectrum of climatic and geographical zones primarily dictated by altitude and topography. Within these distinct zones, a multitude of avian residents find their sanctuary. Among the recorded 770 bird species, a realm of undiscovered treasures likely awaits. The majority are permanent residents, with 50 documented as migratory visitors that grace these lands.

This Birding Tour in western Bhutan traverses diverse ecological zones, ranging from subalpine to subtropical, hence offering a unique opportunity to witness a wide array of avian fauna amidst these varying habitats.

Following this itinerary, we will guide you through both established birding zones and off-the-beaten paths, allowing you to get up close and personal with elusive birds. Expertly trained birding guides will skillfully lead you to optimal locations at the most opportune times, substantially elevating the likelihood of encountering native bird species.

Venturing into birding expeditions across the subalpine glacial valley of Phobjikha, amidst the deciduous forests of the Black Mountains, through the subtropical expanse of Jigme Dorji National Park above Punakha, alongside the riverside in Punakha and Paro, or along the slopes of Dochula Pass, offers more than mere avian encounters.
These locations provide a tranquil and serene haven, a sanctuary for those seeking the finest in natural tranquility.

Birding Western Bhutan Outline Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Paro

Day 2: Drive from Paro to Punakha, birding in Dochula pass along the way

Day 3: In Punakha (Excursion to Tashithang in the JDW National Park and in Punakha)

Day 4: Drive to Gangtey (Phobjikha) birding along the way in Black-mountains

Day 5: In Gangtey, Phobjikha

Day 6: Drive to Thimphu and tour the capital

Day 7: Thimphu & Paro

Day 8:  In Paro (Taktsang hike and birding)

Day 9: Departure