Himalayan Kingdom of Bhutan

Exploring the Birding Trails of the Himalayan Kingdom of Bhutan: A 10-Day Bhutan Birding Tour

Step into the mythical landscapes of Bhutan, where towering peaks, sacred monasteries, and pristine forests shelter some of the world’s most elusive and exotic bird species. This 10-day Bhutan birding tour through the Himalayan Kingdom is not just a trip—it’s an immersion into a realm of untouched biodiversity and spiritual serenity. Designed for nature lovers and birding enthusiasts, the expedition takes you from Paro to the far-eastern lowlands of Samdrup Jongkhar, tracing the habitats of rare and endemic birds across Bhutan’s rich ecological tapestry. Learn more about our Himalayan birding tours for a deeper dive into what we offer.

🐦 Day 1: Arrival in Paro – Begin Your Bhutan Birding Tour

Land in Paro and settle into the peaceful rhythms of Bhutanese life. Your journey begins with birding along the Pa Chhu River, a prime habitat for species such as the Ibisbill, Blue Whistling Thrush, and Brown Dipper. The towering Himalayan backdrop provides a dramatic welcome to your Bhutan birding adventure.

🏔️ Day 2: Chele La Pass – High-Altitude Bhutan Birding Experience

Ascend to Bhutan’s highest motorable pass at 3,899 meters—Chele La. With sweeping views of snow-covered Jhomolhari, search for alpine gems like the Himalayan Monal, Blood Pheasant, and Fire-tailed Sunbird. The alpine meadows and forests are teeming with endemic species that make this region a highlight of any birding tour in Bhutan.

✈️ Day 3: Flight to Bumthang – Discover Central Bhutan’s Avian Wonders

A short flight offers panoramic views of the Himalayas. In Bumthang, bird along the Chummey Valley and Tharpaling Monastery, looking for Kalij Pheasant, Snow Pigeon, and Scaly-breasted Wren Babbler among others.

🌲 Day 4: Chummey to Yongkala – Explore Bhutan’s Prime Birding Forests

Drive through the Thrumshing La Pass, descending into the bird-rich valleys of Sengor and Namling. Rare finds may include the Bar-winged Wren Babbler, Maroon Oriole, and Mrs. Gould’s Sunbird.

🌿 Day 5-6: Thrumshing La National Park – Into Bhutan’s Birding Heartland

Spend two days exploring this ecological paradise. With luck, spot the Rufous-necked Hornbill, Ward’s Trogon, Hodgson’s Frogmouth, and the elusive Gould’s Shortwing. The park’s dense forests and elevation gradients provide ideal conditions for rarities—making it a Bhutan birding hotspot.

🏞️ Day 7: Yongkala to Trashigang – Birding Bhutan’s Eastern Valleys

Explore Kore La’s rich biodiversity. You may encounter species such as the Tawny Fish Owl, Rusty-cheeked Scimitar Babbler, and Crimson-breasted Woodpecker. Stay overnight in the charming town of Trashigang.

🌄 Day 8: Trashigang to Deothang – Transition into Subtropical Birding Zones

Bird through Yonphu La and the Narphung valleys. Expect sightings of Red-headed Trogon, Long-tailed Sibia, Sultan Tit, and the Beautiful Nuthatch—a sought-after species in Bhutan birdwatching circuits.

🌳 Day 9: Deothang to Samdrup Jongkhar – Discover Bhutan’s Lowland Avifauna

Descend into Bhutan’s lush lowlands. Search for the Oriental Pied Hornbill, Banded Bay Cuckoo, Himalayan Flame-backed Woodpecker, and Hooded Pitta—a fitting end to your immersive birding tour in Bhutan.

✈️ Day 10: Departure from Guwahati – Last Stop of the Bhutan Birding Tour

Make a final birding detour at the Guwahati Garbage Dump, an unlikely hotspot for rare storks and waders like the Lesser Adjutant, Woolly-necked Stork, and Pied Kingfisher. Depart with memories of a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

🧳 What to Pack for a Bhutan Birding Tour

• Layered thermal and waterproof clothing

• Trekking shoes and gaiters

• High-quality binoculars and spotting scopes

• DSLR with zoom lens for photography

• Field guides & bird checklist

• Daypack with hydration system

• Headlamp, sunscreen, insect repellent

• Personal medication and basic first-aid kit

📋 Bhutan Birding Tour – Practical Information

Best Time to Visit: April to May (Spring migration)

Tour Grade: Moderate to Strenuous – Expect elevation changes from 200m to over 4,000m.

Accommodation: Comfortable twin-sharing guesthouses and eco-lodges. Meals included.

Guide: English-speaking expert birding guide.

Inclusions:

• Route permits and national park fees

• Transport and transfers

• All meals, tea, and snacks

• Camping gear (if applicable)

Exclusions:

• Flights and visa fees

• Alcohol, tipping, laundry, and personal expenses

• Travel insurance (mandatory)

📩 Book Your Bhutan Birding Tour Now

Explore Bhutan’s wildest corners with a customized birding expedition. From cloud forests to alpine peaks, uncover some of the richest avian biodiversity in Asia.

🔗 Contact us today to start planning your Himalayan Kingdom of Bhutan birding adventure.

🌐 Visit our Bhutan Birding Tours page for details and sample itineraries.