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GUARANTEED DEPARTURE

Bhutan Birding Odyssey

21 DAYS

FROM $ 6,150

AVAILABILITY

Space Available

GROUP SIZE

Maximum 8 PAX

ACTIVITY LEVEL

Moderate
Tooltip Icon These tours involve a mix of walking, nature exploration, and moderate hiking. Ideal for travelers who enjoy birding in diverse habitats or want a more immersive Bhutanese experience.

DEPARTURE

10 Mar-30 Mar, 2026
WARD’S TROGON

Trip Overview

Join us on Bhutan’s most comprehensive birding journey, a 21-day, 20-night expedition designed for passionate birders seeking an in-depth exploration of the country’s rich avifauna and varied landscapes. Led by our senior birding guide with extensive experience guiding international birding tours, this trip offers a carefully paced itinerary that balances exceptional birding with cultural engagement.

Starting in Paro in western Bhutan, the tour gradually makes its way eastward, passing through central and southern regions before concluding in the southeastern corner of the country. From there, guests can exit via the Indian state of Assam.

This journey covers a wide range of habitats and elevations from subtropical lowlands at 150 meters to alpine forests at nearly 3,900 meters. Throughout the tour, you’ll visit all of Bhutan’s premier birding sites, with excellent chances to observe over 320 bird species and 10–15 species of mammals.

Target bird species include: Four species of Pheasants, Ward’s Trogon, Ibisbill, Five species of Parrotbills, Yellow-rumped Honeyguide, Beautiful Nuthatch, Elusive forest species such as Tesias, Shortwings, and Wren-babblers

Mammals often encountered include three species of langurs (including the rare Golden Langur), Himalayan Giant Squirrel, Yellow-throated Marten, and Himalayan Goral.

Cultural highlights enhance the experience, with visits to Bhutan’s iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery, the architecturally stunning Punakha Dzong, and a traditional Bhutanese farmhouse for a taste of local hospitality.


Experts on this Trip

Tshering Dorji

Ever since Tshering Dorji left high school, his deep passion for nature led him to immerse himself in birding and nature based tourism from a very young age likely making him one of the youngest individuals to enter the field of bird guiding in Bhutan. Through years of dedication and hands on experience, he has grown into one of the finest nature guides in the country.

Join Tshering Dorji on other trips


Outline Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Paro – Transfer to Hotel

Upon arrival at Paro International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by our designated guide and transferred to your hotel. In the evening, enjoy a relaxed birding session along the Paro River and nearby wetland patches. Target species may include Ibisbill, River Lapwing, Brown Dipper, Black-tailed Crake, White-capped Redstart, Plumbeous Redstart, and many more.

Overnight: Paro

Day 2: Paro – Excursion to Taktshang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest)

After a leisurely breakfast, set out on a memorable hike to Taktshang Monastery, widely known as the Tiger’s Nest  one of Bhutan’s most iconic and spiritually significant landmarks, the monastery offers breathtaking views and a profound cultural experience. The roundtrip hike typically takes around 4 to 5 hours.

In the evening, visit a traditional Bhutanese farmhouse to enjoy a refreshing hot stone bath, followed by a wholesome home-cooked dinner.

Overnight: Paro

Day 3: Paro – Chelela Birding – Transfer to Thimphu

Begin the day early with a birding excursion to Chelela Pass, the highest point on your journey, renowned for its high-altitude bird species. Among the highlights are three species of pheasant Blood Pheasant, Kalij Pheasant, and the stunning Himalayan Monal. With some luck, the elusive Satyr Tragopan may also be spotted. Other likely sightings include Rosefinches, Accentors, Grosbeaks, and a variety of Tits and Warblers.

In the afternoon, drive to Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital. Spend the rest of the day leisurely exploring the city.

Overnight: Thimphu

Day 4: Thimphu – Cheri Valley Birding and Cultural Sightseeing

Today, we will explore the scenic Cheri Valley with a hike to the historic Cheri Monastery. Along the trail, we will search for a variety of bird species, including the Brown Dipper, Hodgson’s and Blue-fronted Redstarts, Snow Pigeon, Mrs. Gould’s Sunbird, and both Darjeeling and Rufous-bellied Woodpeckers, among others.

In the afternoon, optional cultural sightseeing can be arranged to complement the day’s birding.

Overnight: Thimphu

Day 5: Thimphu – Dochula – Punakha

Begin the day with an early drive to Dochula Pass for morning birding and breakfast among  panoramic mountain views. Continue with a nature walk at Lamperi Botanical Garden, rich in biodiversity and birdlife, before descending towards the subtropical valley of Punakha.

In the afternoon, visit Punakha Dzong an architectural masterpiece and one of Bhutan’s most beautiful fortresses, strategically located at the confluence of the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers.

Bird species likely to be encountered include the vibrant Fire-tailed Myzornis, Spotted and Chestnut-crowned Laughingthrushes, Brown Parrotbill, Darjeeling and Rufous-bellied Woodpeckers, among many others.

Overnight: Punakha

Day 6: Full-Day Birding in Jigme Dorji National Park

Spend the day birding within the rich biodiversity of Jigme Dorji National Park, a stunning protected area along the banks of the Mochu River. This pristine habitat offers excellent opportunities to observe a wide range of species. Likely sightings include the elusive Spotted Elachura, various Forktails such as Little, Spotted, and Slaty-backed, as well as Bay and Crimson-breasted Woodpeckers, and the Lesser Yellownape. With some luck, the majestic Pallas’s Fish Eagle may also be spotted.

Overnight: Punakha

Day 7: Punakha – Nobding – Phobjikha

Today, we begin our journey to the Phobjikha Valley, with several birding stops en route. The morning will be dedicated to birding along the forested stretches before reaching Nobding. In the afternoon, we will explore the Lawala Pass area, another prime birding site.

Key target species for the day include the magnificent Ward’s Trogon, Yellow-rumped Honeyguide, Himalayan Cutia, as well as the vibrant Green-tailed and Mrs. Gould’s Sunbirds, among many others.

Overnight: Phobjikha

Day 8: Phobjikha – Pelela – Trongsa

Begin the day early with a birding excursion to Pelela Pass, focusing on the old, abandoned road a known hotspot for high-altitude species. Spend the entire morning exploring this area before continuing the journey to Trongsa.

Key species of interest include the elusive Satyr Tragopan, the striking Himalayan Monal, Bar-winged Wren Babbler, various Rosefinches, Bullfinches, Accentors, and many more.

Overnight: Trongsa

Day 9: Trongsa – Koshala – Tingtibe

Today, we will travel south from Trongsa, passing through a variety of habitats that offer excellent birding opportunities. Key species of interest may include the Crested Bunting, several Barbet species, the striking Blue-bearded Bee-eater, a range of Woodpeckers, and vibrant Minivets. There is also a chance to spot raptors such as the Black Eagle and Mountain Hawk-Eagle.

Overnight: Tingtibe

Day 10 -11: Tingtibe – Dakphel – Gomphu Road

We will spend two full days birding along the Tingtibe–Dakphel–Gomphu road, exploring a rich diversity of habitats ranging from cool and warm broad-leaved forests to extensive bamboo thickets. These environments are home to an impressive assortment of birdlife.

Target species include the magnificent Great and Rufous-necked Hornbills, Pale-billed Parrotbill, Pale-headed Woodpecker, and White-browed Scimitar Babbler, along with a variety of other woodpeckers, Cool looking Laughingthrushes,  and Warblers. With some luck, we may also encounter rare and endangered species such as the White-bellied Heron and the Beautiful Nuthatch.

Overnight: Tingtibe

Day 12: Tingtibe – Trongsa – Bumthang

Today will primarily be a transit day with some driving involved as we journey from Tingtibe to Bumthang via Trongsa. However, we will make regular stops en route to explore birding opportunities and search for any missed or remarkable species along the way.

Overnight: Bumthang

Day 13: Bumthang – Phrumshingla – Sengor

Today, we continue our journey eastward, crossing Phrumshingla Pass the second highest pass on your trip. Along the way, we will make several stops to search for high-altitude specialties.

Key target species include the Blood Pheasant, Satyr Tragopan, Himalayan Monal, Fire-tailed Myzornis, Fire-tailed Sunbird, Great and Fulvous Parrotbills, as well as a different selection of Tits and Bush Robins, among others.

Overnight: Sengor

Day 14: Sengor – Namling – Yongkala

This morning, we will bird along the productive stretch between Phrumshingla and Sengor, followed by a drive to Yongkala with numerous birding stops en route.

Target species for the day include the elusive Satyr Tragopan, the striking Ward’s Trogon, Yellow-rumped Honeyguide, various Shrike-Babblers, several species of Tits, and many more forest specialties.

Overnight: Yongkala

Day 15 -16: Yongkala – Namling – Limithang Roads

We will spend two full days birding along the Yongkala–Namling–Limithang stretch, one of Bhutan’s premier birding regions. This area is renowned for its rich biodiversity and offers excellent opportunities to observe a wide range of sought-after species.

Key targets include the rare and striking Beautiful Nuthatch, Rufous-necked Hornbill, Ward’s Trogon, and Red-headed Trogon. We’ll also look for various species of Parrotbills, Fulvettas, Wren-Babblers, Babblers, and Laughingthrushes. Optional night birding can be arranged in search of nocturnal species.

Overnight: Yongkala

Day 17: Yongkala – Mongar – Korila – Trashigang

After a morning birding session in the rich habitats around Yongkala, we will continue our journey eastward toward Trashigang. En route, we’ll make birding stops at key locations, including the Korila Pass, to explore highland avifauna.

Species of interest may include various Finches, Thrushes, Prinias, and a variety of other forest and scrubland birds.

Overnight: Trashigang

Day 18: Trashigang – Wamrong – Morong

Today, we begin our journey southward with birding stops along the route. Upon arrival, we’ll also enjoy an evening birding session around Morong, a productive area for several notable species.

Highlights may include another opportunity to spot the elusive Ward’s Trogon and Beautiful Nuthatch. Other species of interest include the vibrant Scarlet Finch, Coral-billed Scimitar Babbler, and many more.

Overnight: Morong

Day 19: Morong – Dewathang – Samdrup Jongkhar

We begin the day with a pre-breakfast birding session around Morong. After breakfast, we drive to Samdrup Jongkhar, descending to the lowest elevation of the trip. Along the way, we’ll make stops to target lowland species characteristic of this subtropical region.

Overnight: Samdrup Jongkhar

Day 20: Samdrup Jongkhar – Dewathang

Today will be dedicated to a full day of birding along the Samdrup Jongkhar–Dewathang stretch, including nearby streams and rocky edges that offer excellent birding habitats.

Key target species include Wreathed and Great Hornbills, Long-tailed and Silver-breasted Broadbills, Golden-fronted Leafbird, Silver-eared Mesia, and Black-backed Forktail, among many others. With some luck, we may also encounter the rare and elusive Blyth’s Kingfisher.

Overnight: Samdrup Jongkhar

Day 21: Departure

After an early breakfast, you will be transferred to Guwahati Airport. The drive takes approximately three hours, passing through the plains of India.

Please note that the above itinerary serves as a general outline to give you an idea of the tour experience. If you are interested in this journey and would like more detailed information, feel free to request a comprehensive itinerary. We’ll be happy to provide it within 24 hours.


Trip Gallery


What to Expect

Led by expert guides, you’ll visit prime birding spots while enjoying the country’s serene natural beauty, rich biodiversity, and unspoiled wilderness. Expect immersive days filled with rare bird sightings and breathtaking scenery.
This birding tour will be on selected sites that do not pose any threats such as steep slopes. During these trips, you should expect yourself to walk at least 6-7 kilometers on average per day
Like elsewhere, the best time for watching birds is in the morning. You can expect an early start in the morning most of the time. However, a couple of very early mornings are required to look for high elevation dwelling Pheasant that comes out to the roadside early in the morning.
Accommodation on this tour is generally simple but comfortable. The hotels are generally spacious, clean and comfortable, built-in westernized Bhutanese style, and all rooms have private facilities. However, due to the limited availability of good lodges and hotels in some remote part of the country, you will spend a couple of nights in basic hotels or tented camp.

Inclusion

What is Included?

  • All internal taxes and charges (SDF)
  • Accommodation on twin sharing basis
  • All meals, tea, snack, and bottled water
  • All travel with a licensed local birding guide
  • All surface transfers by a private vehicle
  • Camping equipment and haulage for camping and trekking tours
  • All entry fees to monuments, Museum and National Parks
  • Bhutan Visa Fee

What is not Included?

  • Optional tours/excursions, personal & incidental expenses.
  • Tips, laundry, phone calls, and bars.
  • International and domestic airfare, and insurance.

Testimonials 2025

see what our guests have to say
5.0
Star Star Star Star Star
23 Reviews
Read heartfelt testimonials from our satisfied guests, sharing their unforgettable experiences, exceptional service, and cherished memories of their journey.

Surreal

Mr Norbu is well versed , very patient and takes pains to ensure you have a good bird watching experience.
Easwar S, Singapore – Dec 2024 • Solo

A memorable trip….so much to experience.

We were well looked after, and the guides were unbelievably good at identifying the many birds, both by sight and sound.
George C, Bristol, UK – May 2024 • Friends

Fantastic 3 week small group birding tour in Bhutan

The trip was well organised, with plenty of information given in advance, including a zoom meeting with Norbu the group leader.
sue s – May 2024 • Friends

Top class bird watching tour of Bhutan

The entire trip was a delight. We travelled extensively around the country with excellent accommodation, meals and transport, all of which were organised by Wild Nature Quest.
Paul R, Skipton, UK – May 2024 • Friends

    Trip Extension

    Enhance your trip with an extension to eastern Nepal to spot the elusive Red Panda or visit Kaziranga National Park in Assam, home to one-horned rhinos, tigers, elephants, and vibrant birdlife.

    Contact us for itineraries and pricing!

    Bhutan’s Bird Songs

    Symphony of Bhutan’s Birds

    Bhutan Birdsong Collection
    This collection features 163 recordings capturing the diverse and enchanting bird songs of Bhutan’s rich natural landscapes.

    Norbu

    With the help of his birding friend Tom Stephenson, co author of The Warbler Guide, I have done extensive recording in Bhutan and has a very large library of local songs.