Bhutan Bird Watching Tour – 8 Days

Weather and Best Season for Birdwatching in Bhutan

The best time for a Bhutan Bird Watching Tour can vary depending on the species and the areas that you wish to explore. Forest birdwatching is suitable during the spring and autumn seasons and the winter season is also very important for the Black-necked Crane in Phobjikha Valley. Weather changes with elevation, so conditions in warm Punakha can differ greatly from those at Chele La Pass.

Spring from March to May and autumn from September to November are usually the strongest periods for general birdwatching. The winter season is often a good time to see cranes and the summer season is a bit more flexible due to rain and the possibility of road closures.

Bird Species and Seasonal Sighting Opportunities

Due to the variation in the landscape, Bhutan is home to a variety of bird species, from river valleys and subtropical forests to temperate woodland and alpine habitat. Visitors can see some of these environments through a Bhutan Birdwatching Itinerary that includes the areas of Paro, Chele La, Thimphu, Punakha, Phobjikha and Trongsa.

These species are objectives, not a sure bet for listing. The number of sightings will depend upon the conditions at each site, weather and season, as well as the time spent at each site. It may take longer or require specialist local birds to find some of the birds.

Birdwatching Habitats and Key Locations

The tour’s route takes birdwatchers through river valleys, mountain forests and open wetlands, making birding more diverse in the country. The route has been arranged to enable the seeing of different bird communities, but the number of species seen will depend on weather conditions on the day of the visit.

There are a number of contrasting habitats along the route, good for birders interested in more than one family. Patience, the right binoculars and extra time at the productive sites are the keys to watching birds in Bhutan.

Tour Difficulty and Daily Walking Requirements

This is a road birding tour with brief footwork, not a trekking Tour. Most days will include driving to appropriate birding sites. But some days are tiring due to early starts, uneven ground, cool mountain conditions and longer time spent outside.

Walking distances are not set targets and are an estimate. The guide has the flexibility to modify the pace as per weather conditions, bird activity and comfort of the group.

It is important that you can get in and out of the vehicle, walk on rough terrain and stand quietly for a while to watch birds. Persons with mobility issues should check the trail conditions and the optional hike before booking.

Altitude, Acclimatization and Mountain Weather

The tour hikes several elevations from the warmer Punakha Valley to the mountain environment in the exposed Chele La Pass. The journey is not one of extended trekking, but the altitude may have an impact on breathing, sleep and energy, particularly for those coming in directly from low altitude.

The highest point of this hike is Chele La. Take your time there, take the advice of your guide and do not hurry from birding location to location.

Symptoms may include headache, dizziness, nausea and unusual fatigue which are symptoms of altitude illness. If you experience symptoms, notify your guide. When symptoms are severe and worsening, an immediate medical evaluation and descent is advised. The itinerary should still be flexible, so that safety becomes a priority.

Tour Itinerary, Driving Distances and Travel Times

The tour route is from west to central Bhutan, starting from Paro and passing through Thimphu to Punakha, Phobjikha Valley and Trongsa. The driving times listed below are only estimates and subject to change depending on road conditions, weather, traffic and birdwatching stops.

Distances are based on planning and must be checked with the local operator before travelling. The last day is tough due to a long trip back to Paro. It is highly recommended to spend a night in Paro before the international flight.

Transportation and Road Conditions in Bhutan

The best way to get to the birding sites on this tour is by private road transport. Nomad Adventure Treks can arrange the scheduled transfers and local travel as per the confirmed package. Passengers, binoculars, camera equipment and day bags should be accommodated in the vehicle.

Roads on the mountain are curved, uphill and may be exposed to weather. During bad weather conditions such as rain, fog, road maintenance or heavy traffic conditions, driving times may be extended. If birding is to be done in a vehicle, stops should be made at locations where vehicles can park safely without interfering with others on the road.

Safe stopping locations are essential to roadside birdwatching. Prior to passengers getting out of the vehicle, the driver and guide should reach an agreement on suitable locations. If it is deemed unsafe due to weather or road conditions for a planned stop, the group should proceed to an alternative location.

Accommodation During the Birdwatching Tour

Accommodation is available in Paro, Thimphu, Punakha, Phobjikha Valley and Trongsa. The level of hotels and guesthouses should be checked upon booking, as this may differ depending on the region. In smaller mountain areas, accommodation choices may be more limited than in the main towns.

A comfortable room, hot water, warm bedding and easy access to breakfast are helpful for this birding experience. Early departures might be necessary in order to get to the birding sites before the latter part of the day. Make the hotel aware if you do need an early breakfast or a packed lunch.

The itinerary includes two nights in Paro, two nights in Thimphu, one night in Punakha, one night in Phobjikha and one night in Trongsa, subject to the final confirmed arrangements. If the international flight is going to depart the next day, the 8th day should be spent overnight in Paro. Confirm room occupancy, heating arrangements and any special dietary or accessibility needs before departure.

Meals, Drinking Water and Dining Arrangements

Meals must be confirmed as part of the final tour package because the tour package provided does not include details of which breakfast, lunch or dinner is included. The typical diet includes rice, vegetables, soups and local chillies and cheese. The principal villages may also offer Indian and continental and other common cuisine.

Breakfast may need to be served early on bird watching days. When you are on a long day out, for several hours, a packed lunch might be helpful, especially when going up to Chele La Pass or Phobjikha Valley. Bring water for drinking on walks and fill water bottles when drinking water is available and treated.

Please let Nomad Adventure Treks know about your food allergies, dietary restrictions or preferences before traveling. Limited availability in remote areas; please call ahead for availability. Do not eat from shops on the side of the road for every meal and have a few appropriate snacks in your day pack. On cooler days, it’s nice to have a warm drink to keep you warm and still while you wait for birds.

Bhutan Visa, Entry Requirements and Sustainable Development Fee

International tourists normally require a visa to enter Bhutan and Indian nationals have a separate entry permit system. Requirements vary by country and type of travel documents presented. Usually, your passport needs to be valid for at least six months from when you plan to travel; immigration officials might require something else.

The visa and entry requirements will be organised on your behalf by Nomad Adventure Treks. As per the arrangement given for this tour, this package includes the Bhutan Sustainable Development Fee (SDF). Ensure that the final booking documents specify what is included.

Submit necessary documents well in advance for processing. Visas should be verified prior to travel and travelers should verify that the dates they have been granted coincide with their travel plans. Please do not take an invitation to book as an entry visa.

Birdwatching Permits. Entry Fees and Protected Areas

Birdwatching sites along this route are river corridors, forest areas, mountain environments and wetlands. The access needed may vary depending on the site and what is to be done. Not all birdwatching sites need a separate permit and if it does, its need should be determined using the final route.

The tour operator will arrange the necessary entry details and will let you know if any special permission or entry ticket is required for a particular site. The Bhutan Sustainable Development Fee will not be considered as an additional site entry fee and will be included in the package as indicated above.

Restricted areas should not be entered, fenced areas should not be crossed and wildlife roosts should not be approached without permission. Your guide will be able to help with finding suitable places to view and giving instructions on local rules. Make sure site fees and access are confirmed before leaving to make sure the package description is accurate.

Birdwatching Equipment and Photography Tips

Good equipment makes a Bhutan Bird Watching Tour more comfortable and aids in identification without disturbing birds. Bring the most important item, binoculars and then a camera with an appropriate zoom lens to capture images of birds in trees, wetlands and open mountain areas.

A small bird might not be easy to identify, so you can also use a field guide or bird identification app. Bring charged electronic devices, especially on days when away from town for several hours.

Recommended equipment:

• Binoculars suitable for birdwatching, preferably 8x or 10x magnification
• Camera with a long lens, for bird photography enthusiasts
• Lightweight tripod or monopod, if needed
• Bird identification guide or offline identification app
• Notebook or bird checklist
• Extra batteries, memory cards and a protective camera case
• Small daypack and reusable water bottle

Take pictures of birds from a respectful distance. Do not use flash in the vicinity of wild animals, continuously play bird calls or approach nests for photographs. It’s worth waiting to make observations; sometimes they’re better the longer you wait.

Clothing and Essential Packing List

The weather may vary significantly from Paro to Punakha Valley and from Punakha Valley to Chele La Pass. Warm afternoons in lower valleys, cool mornings in towns and cold, windy nights at higher elevations are all possibilities. Layer up and down as needed.

Walking shoes that are comfortable and have good traction are helpful when walking on riverbanks, forest paths and uneven terrain. Use waterproof clothes during monsoons and warm gloves and a hat during early morning birding in winter.

Must pack:

• Lightweight base layers and warm outer clothing
• Rain trousers and jacket
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Warm hat, gloves and extra socks
• Sun hat, sunglasses and sunscreen
• Small daypack and reusable water bottle
• Personal medicine & basic First aid supplies
• Binoculars and camera equipment
• Passports and necessary travel documentation
• Power Bank and charging cables

Don’t assume that the weather in Bhutan is the same in all places and pack based on the month of travel. Protect all important papers, camera equipment and electronic gear from the rain and moisture.

Birdwatching Guide and Wildlife Observation Etiquette

Use a knowledgeable local guide to identify birds by voice, actions, plumage and habitat. The guide can also choose appropriate birdwatching spots and modify the daily activities as per the bird activity and road conditions during a Bhutan Birdwatching Itinerary.

There are species that are more audible than visual, especially in dense forests. Slowly, softly and taking time at each site can enhance the experience. A birding guide who is familiar with the local habitats can also identify when certain birds are found in specific locations due to seasonal movements.

Use these birdwatching techniques:

• Maintain a respectful distance from birds and other animals
• Do not disturb nests, roosts or feeds
• Avoid attempting to handle, chase or touch wild birds
• Do not make too loud noises or overplay bird calls
• Follow designated trails and instructions as given locally
• Do not feed wild birds in an effort to bring them closer
• Ask before entering private farmland or restricted areas
• Leave plants, feathers and other natural materials where they are found

Even with an experienced guide, nothing can be guaranteed when it comes to sightings of birds. Observe wildlife in a responsible way while allowing birds to behave naturally.

Health, Safety and Travel Insurance

This tour will be on mountain roads, will include changing temperatures and time spent outside at various elevations. Early starts and long drives can be tiring; most of the activities are gentle. Anyone visiting should judge their own fitness and consult their GP or other medical professional regarding any health concerns that may be of interest before travelling.

Medical treatment, emergency assistance and evacuation (where applicable) should be included in the cover provided by travel insurance. Ensure that the activities and elevations covered in the proposed policy are in line with the plan. Bring required medication in hand luggage and take sufficient quantities for the whole journey.

Ensure adequate water intake, wear appropriate clothing and avoid excessive exposure to the sun or adverse cold or wet conditions. If you do not feel well, tell your guide immediately, especially when reaching Chele La Pass. If the headache is very strong, the person is short of breath, confused or their symptoms get worse, the person needs urgent medical attention.

Heavy rain, fog or other weather conditions can affect road conditions. Be flexible about the schedule; don’t pressure the person to leave at a specific time. Keep emergency contacts and passport information safe and take them with you and follow the guide’s directions when on the road or outdoors.

Mobile Network, Internet and Charging Facilities

The mobile phone networks work well in towns like Paro and Thimphu and less so in remote valleys and mountains. These connections will be weak or unavailable during drives, at forest observation points and around more isolated areas of Phobjikha Valley.

Pre-arrival enquiry can be made to your operator regarding a local SIM or an international roaming plan. Phone registration requirements, available packages and network coverage can vary, so check current arrangements when preparing for the trip.

Hotels in the main towns are usually equipped with electricity and may offer Wi Fi, but the quality of the connection varies from one hotel to another. Some smaller rooms might have less powerful Wi-Fi and fewer charging stations. Bring an appropriate power adapter, power bank and charging cables for extended birding trips.

Download maps, booking details and any bird identification resources before leaving a town for use without an internet connection. Do not use mobile data for navigation or emergency communications in places with poor coverage; keep mobile phones charged for early morning trips.

Money, Currency and Personal Expenses

Bhutan’s currency is the Ngultrum (BTN). Indian rupees can also be used under certain conditions, depending on the denomination and merchant and prevailing regulations. It makes sense to have a bit of local currency to make small purchases, buy snacks at restaurants, etc.

Bank cards and digital payment will be more likely to be available in the larger towns than in remote stops. It is a good idea to check that all hotels, shops or restaurants will accept international cards. If you need to cover foreign transaction fees, call your bank and ask what they will charge. If you have to, let them know when you’ll be traveling.

When booking, find out what is covered in the package. Additional drinks, laundry, optional activities and tips may not be included with personal shopping unless stated. Have some cash on hand for day trips, but keep larger amounts of cash out of sight and out of reach.

It is also a good idea to have a backup plan for sudden changes in travel plans, especially for changes due to weather affecting the road schedule. A final package confirmation from Nomad Adventure Treks should spell all this out in the package.

Responsible Birdwatching and Wildlife Conservation

Bhutan’s forests, rivers and wetlands host a variety of resident and migratory birds. Responsible observation helps in the protection of these habitats and can serve the interests of local communities and future visitors. Birdwatchers should also note that the welfare of the birds comes first and that proximity and/or photography is secondary.

Local conservation rules and guidance of experienced birdwatching guides should be followed when birdwatching in Bhutan. This is especially significant in Phjobbika Valley during the winter crane season when disturbance at feeding and roosting sites may impact cranes.

Ways to minimise your impact:

• Keep a safe distance from birds and observe them from designated viewing points
• Avoid approaching nests or disturbing breeding activities
• Never leave litter, food scraps or plastic in natural areas
• Stay on designated trails and use approved viewing points
• Avoid loud noises and excessive use of recorded bird calls
• Do not feed wildlife or collect feathers, eggs or plants
• Respect local communities, farmland and private property
• Practise responsible tourism and support local guides and tourism companies

Patience and restraint are the key components of responsible bird watching. It’s better to see a bird for a short time from a distance than to disturb a bird for the photograph. Observe temporary access closures set up to conserve sensitive habitats.

Practical Advice and Helpful Tips for Birdwatchers

Your visit will be more productive and comfortable if you are prepared. Many species are active early in the morning and bird watching is usually best done early in the morning. The schedule should be flexible, however, as locations visited fluctuate due to weather and road conditions, as well as seasonal bird movements.

It is a Bhutan Bird Watching Tour and has several sites to be visited during the period of eight days, so there is no guarantee of any bird being seen. Allow time to watch common and more challenging species.

Some helpful suggestions on the way:

• Carry binoculars and a bird checklist each day
• Dress in layers and keep rain protection handy
• Charge camera batteries and mobile phones before early departures
• Carry water and snacks for long road journeys
• Record interesting bird sightings, including the location and date
• Listen carefully for bird calls in dense woodland
• Follow your guide’s advice on suitable birdwatching locations
• Allow enough time for the final long drive when planning your onward travel
• Plan an overnight stay before departing for your international destination

Talk with your guide about your primary birding interests before the trip. If you particularly want to see Black-necked Cranes, plan your visit during their wintering period, generally from November to February. There is still a chance of them being seen, depending on their presence and local conditions during the season.