Adventure Birding Tour 9 Nights / 8 DAys
Duration: 9 Nights / 8 Days
Destination: Paro,Thimphu, Punakha, Wangdue Phodrang, Trongsa and Zhemgang,
Happiness Expeditions is a premier provider of birding and nature tours in Bhutan, renowned for crafting seamless and immersive birdwatching vacations. Our meticulously curated packages are the result of extensive research and field testing, ensuring unparalleled experiences in Bhutan’s most coveted birding hotspots.
At Happiness Expeditions, we are committed to fostering a profound connection with the natural world through extraordinary encounters. Our mission extends beyond mere tourism; we strive to instill a deep reverence for nature, catalyze wildlife conservation initiatives, and enrich lives through meaningful exploration.
Led by expert guides with an intimate knowledge of Bhutan’s avian biodiversity, our birdwatching excursions cater to enthusiasts of all skill levels. Whether you’re a seasoned birder or a novice nature enthusiast, our guides are dedicated to providing enriching experiences tailored to your interests and abilities.
Join us on a journey of discovery through Bhutan’s stunning landscapes, where every moment is an opportunity to marvel at the wonders of the natural world. Let us guide you to hidden gems teeming with rare and endemic bird species, where each sighting is a testament to the richness of Bhutan’s biodiversity.
At Happiness Expeditions, we invite you to embark on more than just a vacation – immerse yourself in a transformative journey that ignites your passion for conservation and leaves you with memories to last a lifetime. Come explore Bhutan’s natural treasures with us and embark on a voyage of discovery unlike any other.
On the arrival at the Paro international airport, representative from Orog Travel will receive you with offering Kha-Dhar (traditional scarf) and transfer to hotel.
Your evening birding starts here, exploring Paro river bank specifically looking for Ibisbill, Brown Dipper and Wallcreeper. While looking for above mentioned targetedspecies, you will also have good catch of other commoner species. To mention few, River Lapwing, Olive-backed Pipit, White-capped and Plumbeous Water Redstart, White Wagtail, Rufous-breasted Accentor, Green and Common Sandpiper and others..Overnight: Paro
- Embark on an early morning drive to Chelela, the highest motor road entrance to prime birding sites at approximately 4000m. Witness frequent sightings of Kalij Pheasants at the base, then journey into the habitat of Satyr Tragopans. Encounter Blood Pheasants and Himalayan Monals near the pass. Other notable species include Laughingthrushes, Tits, Grosbeaks, Nutcrackers, Sunbirds, Bullfinches, Rosefinches, Woodpeckers, Treecreepers, Fulvettas, Yuhinas, and more. Return to Thimphu, stopping at the sewage pond area for additional birding.
After birding at pass, you will head back towards capital city of Bhutan.
Break for the day, shopping if necessary.
Over Night at Thimphu capital city of Bhutan.
Embark on an early morning journey towards Punakha, a scenic drive of approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, passing through Dochula pass at an elevation of 3150 meters above sea level. As you traverse the Dochula pass, keep your eyes peeled for the elusive Fire-tailed Myzornis, charming Finches, lively Yuhinas, majestic Eurasian Jay, and other enchanting alpine birds.
Descending from the pass, immerse yourself in the pristine beauty of the Royal Botanical Park, characterized by its lush broadleaf forest that provides an ideal habitat for a diverse array of wildlife. With luck, you may even catch a glimpse of the elusive Red Panda. Explore the nature trails within the park, where you might encounter the exquisite Ward’s Trogon, the charismatic Brown and Black-throated Parrotbill, the resplendent Golden-breasted Fulvetta, as well as the elusive Slender-billed and Streaked-breasted Scimitar Babblers, among others.
Continue your journey to Punakha valley, where the landscape unfolds before you, offering glimpses of Scarlet and Long-tailed Minivets, vibrant Great and Golden-throated Barbets, and other indigenous bird species.
In the evening, embark on a serene drive along the banks of the Po Chhu river, in search of the critically endangered White-bellied Heron and the vulnerable Pallas’s Fish Eagle. Keep an eye out for migratory water birds, with occasional sightings of vagrant Mandarin Ducks, elegant Ibisbills, bustling Red-wattled and Lapwings, as well as the regal Common and Crested Kingfishers, and a variety of raptors soaring overhead.Overnight Punakha
Embark on an early morning drive towards the picturesque Phobjikha Valley, a journey of approximately 4 hours through a landscape transitioning between warm and cool broadleaf forests. Along the way, make several stops to explore the diverse vegetation, where you’ll be rewarded with sightings of a myriad of bird species.
Keep your eyes peeled for the vibrant Yellow-rumped Honeyguide, the striking Himalayan Cutia, the charming Chestnut-bellied Nuthatch, and the elusive Ward’s Trogon, among others. Delight in the melodious calls of the Hoary-throated Barwing, the secretive Blyth’s Shrike-babbler, and the lively Bhutan and Rufous-chinned Laughingthrushes.
As you approach the Pelela pass, the landscape transitions into dwarf bamboo, offering opportunities to spot species such as the Spotted, Chestnut-crowned, and Black-faced Laughingthrushes, the charismatic Spotted Nutcracker, and the delightful Great and Brown Parrotbills. Keep an eye out for the Oriental Skylark, the elusive White-browed Shortwing, the colorful Yellow-billed Blue Magpie, and a variety of other avian treasures that inhabit this pristine valley.Over Night Phobjikha
- Following an early breakfast, our journey continues to the majestic Pelela pass, standing at an elevation of 3400 meters above sea level. Spend the morning hours exploring the old road, where you’ll have the chance to encounter the stunning Satyr Tragopan and other high-altitude species. Keep your binoculars ready for sightings of the elusive Spotted Laughingthrush, the majestic Himalayan Griffon, the delightful Great and Brown Parrotbills, and the charming Plain Mountain Finch, among others. Marvel at the vibrant plumage of the White-winged and Collared Grosbeaks, and listen for the calls of the Slaty-blue and Dark-sided Flycatchers, as well as the melodious tunes of various Tits. Keep an eye out for iconic species such as the Himalayan Monal, the striking Dark-rumped Rosefinch, and the dazzling Fire-tailed and Green-tailed Sunbirds.
En route to Trongsa, keep your senses sharp for sightings of the Speckled Wood Pigeon, the captivating Ultramarine Flycatcher, and the exquisite Golden-breasted, White-browed, and Rufous-winged Fulvettas. Listen for the calls of the Streak-breasted and Rusty-cheeked Scimitar Babblers, and keep an eye out for the distinctive Black-winged Cuckooshrike, the graceful Nepal House Martin, and the swift Blyth’s Swift and White-throated Needletail. Don’t miss the opportunity to spot the majestic Black Eagle and a plethora of other avian treasures as you traverse this stunning landscape. - Over night at Trongsa
Today you drive to Zhemgang and to Tingtibi (6 hrs. drive) following the MangdeChhu River. Species found in this area are Pin-tailed Green Pigeons, Red-Headed Trogon, , Blue-bearded Bee-eater, Rufous-throated Partridge, Hill Partridge, Coral-billed Scimitar Babbler, Rufous-necked Hornbill, Great Hornbill, White-browed Piculet, Speckled Piculet, Bay woodpecker, White-tailed Robin, White-browed Scimitar Babbler, Black-faced laughing thrush, Grey-headed Parrotbill, White-throated Needletail, Mountain Scops Owl, Collard Scops Owl, Collared Treepie, Pygmy-blue flycatcher. There is a chance of spotting the critically endangered White bellied Heron and rare Collared Treepie, Beautiful Nuthatch and Lesser Rufous-headed Parrotbill, Greater Rufous-headed Parrotbill, Lesser-necklacedLaughingthrush, Greater NecklacedLaughingthrush.
To high light few on mammals sighting, you will see Golden langur, AsameseMacque, Malayan Giant squirrel and others.
Over Night at Tingtibi.
Today’s exploration along the Zhemgang – Tingtibe roads offers diverse habitats from mossy forests to streamside lowland forests. Keep an eye out for the fairly common Golden Langur and elusive species like Rufous-necked and Great Hornbill, Green Pigeons, Cutia, Scarlet Minivet, Laughingthrushes, Spotted Wren Babblers, and the sought-after Beautiful Nuthatch. In the afternoon, venture along the Gomphu Road towards Manas National Park to spot Lesser Rufous-headed Parrotbill, Babblers, Yellownape, Bee-eater, Laughingthrush, Flycatcher, Yuhinas, Drongo Cuckoo, Magpie, Dove, Bulbul, and with luck, the Pale-headed Woodpecker.
Over Night at Tingtibee
After a day of birdwatching adventure, your journey from Tingtibee to Thimphu promises relaxation and excitement. As the sun sets, indulge in the vibrant nightlife of Bhutan’s capital. Explore bustling markets, savor delicious local cuisine, and immerse yourself in the rich cultural scene. From lively bars to cozy cafes, Thimphu offers something for everyone to enjoy after a day of exploration. Experience the warmth and hospitality of Bhutanese hospitality as you unwind and make memories in this charming city.
Start your day in Thimphu with an early morning drive to embark on a breathtaking hike to Paro Taktsang, also known as the Tiger’s Nest monastery. Marvel at the stunning scenery as you ascend to this iconic landmark perched on a cliffside. Immerse yourself in the spiritual ambiance and soak in panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
After your hike, journey to the charming town of Paro for an evening of leisurely shopping. Explore quaint shops and stalls offering a variety of souvenirs, handicrafts, and local treasures, perfect for bringing back cherished memories of your Bhutanese adventure to loved ones at home.
Good bye from Bhutan with all the memories and checklist of Bhutan birds
Depart from Paro international airport.