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Bird-Watching Trip in different landscapes of Nepal

Tour snapshot

Duration:
10 Days
Min Group Size:
2 persons
Location:
Nepal
Tour Type:
Wildlife Trips

Overview

Nestled between China and India, Nepal is much more than the center for extreme adventures—it's a basket full of nature and culture. From 60 meters above sea level in the lowlands to the mighty Mount Everest, Nepal contains a vast range of landscapes. Pilgrims flock to its holy sites, adding to its spiritual significance.


But Nepal is not all about culture and adventure; it's also a haven for nature enthusiasts. Birdwatchers will find delight in its 892 bird species, of which the Spiny Babbler, for example, is only found here. The country also becomes famous for the Raptor Migration Watch, visitors to which come from almost all over the world, with many members of WBCM.


Those who will join our specially crafted itinerary for WBCM members will start the journey at Kathmandu Airport, where one will be cordially welcomed and transferred to the Holy Himalaya hotel. Our bird guide, experienced in bird conservation and eco-tourism for years, will accompany the participants during the entire tour.


The major highlight is spotting birds and mammals, but we will make sure that you get enough of the rich culture of Nepal and its breathtaking scenery. Be it scanning for rare species in the sky or soaking in the local tradition and culture, or merely the grandeur of the Himalayas, Nepal doesn't disappoint any nature lover and adventure enthusiast.

Highlights

  • Spot over 400 bird species, including rare and endemic ones like the Spiny Baller and White-collared Blackbird.

 

  • Marvel at the majestic Himalayas with breathtaking views from Phulchowki Hills and Sarangkot.

 

  • Explore diverse habitats, from wetlands and forests to farmlands, offering a rich array of avian and mammalian wildlife.

 

  • Thriling Jeep safari in Chitwan National Park to spot mega mammals like the Greater One-horned Rhino and brids like the Great Hornbill.

 

  • Witness the awe-inspring Raptor Migration Watch in Pokhara, which attracts bird enthusiasts worldwide.

 

  • Visit the Sarus Crane Sanctuary in Lumbini, a Ramsar site teeming with over 5,000 migtatory waterfowl species.

 

  • Immerse yourself in Nepal's rich cultural heritage, including world-famous sites like Boudha Stupa and Pashupatinath. 

 

  • Indulge in local cuisine and gain insights into Nepalese traditions at the Jagdishour Taal Community Center.

 

  • Experience breathtaking sunrises and sunsets in the serene Himalayan landscapes. 

Itinerary

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Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu (1,400 m.)
1,400 m.
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In the first place, you are to arrive in Nepal. Then, representatives of the Holy Himalaya Hotel come to pick you up right from the airport and bring you to the hotel. We will orient you with the trek details once you get settled in the hotel. After that, take a walk in the colorful Thamel market, its narrow roads, and then spend the evening as you like.
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Day 2: Hike to Phulchowki Hills (2,790 m.)
2.790 m.
5 hours
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Today, early morning, we will drive to Phulchowki Hills-the highest peak of Kathmandu at 2790m. Enjoy panoramic Himalayan ranges and different bird species. This is a holy place for locals; hence, a popular destination for birdwatching, with Darjeeling Woodpeckers, Laughingthrushes, Sunbirds, and many more. This Important Bird and Biodiversity Area (IBA) promises sightings of over 100 bird species. A leisurely descent offers opportunities to observe rarities like the Himalayan Cutia and white-collared Blackbird. With short drives and downhill birding, immerse yourself in nature's splendor, from majestic raptors to colorful warblers, in this haven for avian enthusiasts.
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Day 3: Fly from Kathmandu (1,400 m.)to Pokhara (822 m.) and explore
1,400 m.
30 mins flight
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After an early breakfast, we'll get ready to head to the domestic airport for our flight to Pokhara. The flight will be short and scenic. Upon landing, we'll drive to our hotel and maybe stop for a quick birding trip to spot yellow-breasted bunting. After checking in, we will make an upstream exploration of Fewa Lake, which is important for migratory water birds such as Bar-headed Geese and Eurasian Wigeons. Driving, flying, exploring Pokhara City, and some short birdwatching are on our day's schedule. The town of Pokhara is a dazzling, dreamy place, surrounded by the Himalayas and with over 400 species recorded. We will also look out for any rare birds, especially during the Raptor Migration Watch in the northern part of Pokhara.
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Day 4: Bird Watching Around Pokhara (822 m.)
822 m.
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After breakfast, we will make a short drive to the southeast, toward the Dovilla areas, which host a variety of bird species. We will search for white-rumped vultures, cinereous vultures, and others, including Egyptian vultures that breed and roost here. We will spend the whole morning and till afternoon exploring this area. Later, we will drive to World Peace Stupa for some birding and try to capture the sunset if the weather permits. Full-day birding around the World Peace Stupa, Nirmal Pokhari Ridgeline, and Mountain Glory Forest Resort & Spa; we hope to see about 68 species of birds, including the highly elusive Nepal Spiny Babbler and four species of vultures.
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Day 5: Sarangkot for sunrise (1,600 m.) and drive to Lumbini (150 m.)
1,600 m.
7 hours drive
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We will start off early to catch the magnificent views of the sunrise from Sarangkot. Then, we will make a short stop to look for the Spiny Babbler if not seen earlier. Then, back to the hotel to have breakfast and pack up. Our drive to Lumbini via Palpa will be along a route with some ancient historical importance, with breaks for lunch and birdwatching. Depending on our arrival time, we might explore historical sites or visit Sarus Crane roosting spots. After a 5–6-hour drive, we'll arrive in Lumbini. We'll manage some birdwatching around our accommodation and nearby farmland and waterbird habitats in the evening. Today, we may spot around 61 bird species.
6
Day 6: Birding Watching around Lumbini and its surroundings (150 m.)
150 m.
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This morning, we drive to a man-made reservoir, which has been identified as an IBA and declared recently as the second bird sanctuary of the province. The main concentration of migratory water fowl reaches a minimum number of 5,000 individuals there. Continuing with birds and heritage site exploration throughout the afternoon. Sarus cranes, several species of stork, raptors, including the Black-winged Kite, and water birds like pochards and teals will be some highlights today. We spend half a day at the Ramsar site, where we will see around 89 bird species, mainly water birds. Lunch will be taken at the Jagdishpur Taal Community Center, where we get an insight into the local culture. With wetland, farmland, and forest habitats combined, we hope to see more than 100 bird species today.
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Day 7: Drive from Lumbini (150 m.) to Chitwan (415 m.)
415 m.
4 hours drive
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We will be going to Chitwan, where there is ample choice of lodges at Sauraha—the tourist hub—or at western Chitwan, which is relatively less explored but rich in birds and mammals, not to mention the Gangetic Dolphin. We will plan birding or village tours depending upon arrival and time. By road, it's a bone-shaking ride, although flying gets one there in quicker time. After lunch, we visit Jatayu Restaurant, a must-visit spot to learn about vultures and observe seven vulture species. Around the village, we expect to spot 63 forest species, totaling at least 70 bird species.
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Day 8: Enjoy the Jungle Activities (415 m.)
415 m.
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Today is a mega-mammals and birds-spotting Jeep safari in Chitwan National Park. Full-day or half-day safaris are available for our option, offering greater views of the park's core areas. We hope to see birds such as the Great Hornbill and mammals such as the Greater One-horned Rhino. The length and location of the safari are determined locally. It's an exhilarating ride that keeps us alert with sightings of wildlife. We hope to spot about 105 bird species and 10 mammals, including the impressive rhino.
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Day 9: Fly back to Kathmandu (1,400 m.)
1,400 m.
30 mins flight
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After having breakfast, we will drive to Bharatpur Airport to catch a return flight to Kathmandu. Arriving here, we spend the remaining part of the day in final shopping or exploring the heritage sites of Baudhanath Stupa, Pashupatinath, or Hanuman Dhoka. The perfect places to fill your bucket with cultural richness. Our Bharatpur-Kathmandu flight will mark the end of our journey. We shall try to spend this last day thoroughly, breathing in and being a part of Kathmandu's dynamic atmosphere and historic places.
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Day 10: International Departure
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Use your last morning in Kathmandu according to your flight time. Pack your things, check out of the hotel, and head to Tribhuvan International Airport for your departure. Or, you can continue your Nepal exploration and start a new trip. Cultural tour, art and craft, cooking class, river trip, cycling, or even easier, plan a new trek within your time limit.

Included/Excluded

Airport pick up and drop off
Domestic transportation
Necessary equipment during the trip
Experienced guides
Necessary National Park fees
Full meal on board
Personal Expenses
Personal equipment
Sightseeing entry fees in Kathmandu
Cost incidental to any change in the itinerary
Anything else not mentioned in the inclusion list

Service Fee Only, Explore Nepal Fully!

Not sure? You can cancel this reservation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

FAQs about Bird-Watching Trip in different landscapes of Nepal

What is the best time of year for bird watching in Nepal?

The best seasons for bird watching in Nepal are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). During these months, both resident and migratory bird species are highly active, the weather is pleasant, and visibility is excellent. Winter is also rewarding for spotting migratory waterbirds that arrive from Central Asia and Siberia.

How many bird species can be seen in Nepal?

Nepal is home to more than 890 recorded bird species, making it one of the finest birding destinations in Asia. Despite its small size, Nepal offers an incredible range of habitats, from tropical jungles and wetlands to alpine forests and Himalayan valleys.

What bird species can I expect to see during the tour?

Depending on the season and locations visited, you may encounter species such as the Spiny Babbler, Himalayan Monal, Sarus Crane, Bengal Florican, Hornbills, Eagles, Vultures, Kingfishers, Woodpeckers, Flycatchers, and numerous migratory birds. Every tour offers unique sightings based on migration patterns and weather conditions.

What is the Spiny Babbler and why is it special?

The Spiny Babbler is Nepal's only endemic bird species, meaning it is found nowhere else in the world. It is one of the most sought-after birds for international birdwatchers and can often be spotted in the hills surrounding Kathmandu Valley.

What is Phulchowki Hill and why is it famous for bird watching?

Phulchowki Hill, located on the southern rim of Kathmandu Valley, is Nepal's most famous birding destination. Its forests host hundreds of bird species, including laughingthrushes, woodpeckers, flycatchers, barbets, and raptors, making it a must-visit site for bird enthusiasts.

What is the Raptor Migration Watch in Pokhara?

The Raptor Migration Watch is an annual birding phenomenon where thousands of birds of prey migrate across the Himalayan foothills near Pokhara. Birdwatchers may observe eagles, buzzards, falcons, kestrels, and vultures soaring overhead during migration season.

What birds and wildlife can I see in Chitwan National Park?

Chitwan National Park offers some of Nepal's richest wildlife experiences. Besides hundreds of bird species, visitors may encounter the Greater One-horned Rhinoceros, deer, crocodiles, wild boar, monkeys, and if fortunate, the elusive Bengal Tiger.

Can I see the Greater One-horned Rhino during the tour?

Yes. Chitwan National Park is one of the best places in Asia to observe the Greater One-horned Rhinoceros in its natural habitat. Jeep safaris and guided wildlife excursions provide excellent opportunities for sightings.

What is the Sarus Crane Sanctuary in Lumbini?

Lumbini is home to important wetland habitats that support the Sarus Crane, the world's tallest flying bird. Birdwatchers visiting the area can observe these graceful birds along with numerous wetland and migratory species.

Are your bird watching guides experienced and knowledgeable?

Yes. Our bird watching tours are led by experienced local naturalists and birding guides who are skilled in identifying bird species, recognizing bird calls, understanding habitats, and sharing insights about Nepal's bird conservation efforts.

Is prior bird watching experience required?

No. The tour is suitable for both beginners and experienced birdwatchers. Whether you are identifying your first bird species or maintaining a life list, our guides tailor the experience according to your interests and experience level.

What accommodation is provided during the bird watching tour?

Accommodation includes comfortable hotels, lodges, and wildlife resorts depending on the destination. In Kathmandu, guests may stay at our own hotel, Holy Himalaya Hotel, or choose alternative accommodation based on personal preference and budget.

What meals are included during the bird watching trip?

The tour includes a variety of Nepali, Asian, and international meals. Vegetarian and vegan options are widely available. Special dietary requirements can usually be accommodated with advance notice.

What equipment should I bring for bird watching in Nepal?

We recommend bringing binoculars, a camera with a zoom lens, a field guide or bird identification app, comfortable walking shoes, lightweight clothing, a hat, sunscreen, and a notebook for recording sightings. Serious bird photographers may also wish to carry a spotting scope.

What makes bird watching in Nepal unique?

Nepal offers an extraordinary combination of biodiversity, dramatic landscapes, wildlife, and culture within a relatively small area. In a single trip, birdwatchers can explore Himalayan forests, wetlands, river systems, subtropical jungles, and cultural heritage sites while observing hundreds of bird species found across multiple ecological zones.

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