Discover Bhutan: A 14-Day Bird Watching Adventure Through Spectacular Landscapes

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Tour Itinerary

Embark on a 14-day birdwatching adventure through the diverse landscapes of Bhutan, from the west to the central regions. This all-inclusive tour offers an exceptional experience, blending remarkable birdwatching opportunities with the exploration of Bhutan's architectural marvels and serene villages. You'll start your journey in Paro, then travel through Thimphu, Punakha, and Gangtey before heading to central Bhutan, covering Trongsa, Zhemgang, and Bumthang. Along the way, you'll encounter a variety of bird species, including the Great Hornbill, Satyr Tragopan, the rare White-Bellied Heron, and the Black-Necked Crane. Your trip will conclude with a memorable hike to the Tiger’s Nest Monastery in Paro.

Day 1

Arrival – Paro to Thimphu

Arrive at Paro International Airport where you will be greeted by your guide. After a warm welcome, you’ll drive to Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan, a journey of about 1.5 hours. The scenic drive along the Paro Chu and Thimphu Chu rivers is a gentle introduction to Bhutan's natural beauty. After checking into your hotel, enjoy a leisurely evening exploring the quaint streets of Thimphu, visiting local cafes, and getting a taste of Bhutanese cuisine.

Day 2

Bird Watching in Thimphu

Begin your day with an early drive to the outskirts of Thimphu, passing through rich vegetation of firs, pines, and rhododendrons. Visit the impressive bronze Buddha statue at Kuenselphodrong, then continue to Cheri, Dodema, and Begana for some of the best birding spots in Thimphu. Expect to see Ibisbills, Sandpipers, Crested-Pie Kingfishers, and many more. In the afternoon, visit the Memorial Chorten and Tashichhodzong, a medieval fortress and government complex. Overnight in Thimphu.

Day 3

Thimphu to Punakha

After breakfast, drive to Dochula Pass for panoramic views of the Himalayan range. Stop at Lobesa to hike through rice paddies to Chimi Lhakhang Temple, dedicated to the “Divine Madman,” Drukpa Kuenley. Continue to Punakha, known for its subtropical valley and the critically endangered White-Bellied Heron. Other species to look out for include the Red-headed Trogon and Wedge-Tailed Pigeon. Overnight in Punakha.

Day 4

Bird Watching in Punakha

Today, visit Punakha Dzong, one of Bhutan’s most beautiful fortresses. Explore the upper Punakha valley forests, home to Bay Woodpeckers, Red-headed Trogons, and more. Pay attention to skulkers like the Spotted Elachura and Pygmy Wren-Babbler. Spend another night in Punakha.

Day 5

Punakha to Gangtey Valley

Depart for Gangtey Valley, renowned for the Black-Necked Crane. Scan the forests and river channels for Flycatchers and Green Pigeons. If visiting between October and March, look for Black-Necked Cranes. Explore the Black-Necked Crane Center and stroll around Phobjikha Valley. Visit the historic Gangtey Gompa and stay at a traditional farmhouse.

Day 6

Gangtey to Trongsa

Drive through Lawa La Pass and Pele La Pass, enjoying views of Mount Jumolhari and Jichu Drake. Continue past evergreen and broad-leaved forests, and visit Chendebji Chorten, a replica of Kathmandu’s Boudhanath Stupa. Arrive in Trongsa, a bird-rich area perfect for spotting species like the Rusty-cheeked Scimitar-Babbler and White-browed Scimitar-Babbler. Explore Trongsa Dzong and the Royal Heritage Museum. Overnight in Trongsa.

Day 7

Trongsa to Zhemgang - Tingtibi

Travel to Zhemgang, following the Mangde Chhu river. Enjoy birding in dense forests, looking for the Rusty-cheeked Scimitar-Babbler, Blue-bearded Bee-eater, and possibly the endangered White-bellied Heron. You may also spot the Golden Langur, an endemic mammal. Overnight at a tented camp in Tingtibi.

Day 8

Bird Watching in Tingtibi

Explore the diverse habitats of Tingtibi, from subtropical forests to mossy woodlands. Look for birds such as the Beautiful Nuthatch, Crested Honey Buzzard, and Rufous Woodpecker. The area is also home to the Rufous-necked Hornbill and endemic Golden Langur. Spend the night in a tented camp.

Day 9

Tingtibi to Bumthang

In the morning, search for the Beautiful Nuthatch and Sapphire Flycatcher before heading to Bumthang, the cultural heart of Bhutan. Visit Jambay Lhakhang and Jakar Dzong, and explore agricultural areas for birding. Look for the Rose Finch and Rufous-breasted Accentor. Overnight in Bumthang.

Day 10

Bird Watching in Bumthang

Travel to Chumey Valley, visiting Tharparling Monastery. Climb the hills to spot the Monal Pheasant and Satyr Tragopan. Other birds to see include the Spot-winged Grosbeak and Oriental Skylark. Overnight in Bumthang.

Day 11

Bumthang to Paro (Domestic Flight)

Fly from Bumthang to Paro, enjoying aerial views of the Himalayas. Visit Chencho Handicraft to see traditional crafts and weavers at work. Spend the rest of the day exploring Paro town. Overnight in Paro.

Day 12

Bird Watching in Paro

Explore birding spots in Paro, where you might see the Ibisbill in gravel riverbeds and the Black-tailed Crake near fast-flowing rivers. Other species include the River Lapwing and Green Sandpiper. Winter visits may reveal additional species. Overnight in Paro.

Day 13

Hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery

Hike to the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery, perched on a cliff 900 meters above Paro Valley. Enjoy lunch at the cafeteria halfway up. Explore the monastery before descending. Overnight in Paro.

Day 15

Departure

After breakfast, your guide will escort you to Paro International Airport for your departure flight. Bid farewell to Bhutan, carrying with you unforgettable memories of your journey through this enchanting Himalayan kingdom.