12 Day Birdwatching Travel Plan
Embark on a 12-day birdwatching adventure through Bhutan’s pristine forests and hidden valleys, where rare species like the Rufous-necked Hornbill and Black-necked Crane await – a paradise for nature lovers and bird enthusiasts!
Bhutan Trip Itinerary
Your adventure begins as you touch down at Paro International Airport, surrounded by the breathtaking views of the Himalayas. Upon exiting the arrival hall, your guide will warmly welcome you to Bhutan. Today is all about acclimatizing to the altitude and easing into the rhythm of this magical land. After lunch, explore the scenic Paro Valley, known for its serene riverbanks and the rare ibisbill bird. End the day with a leisurely stroll through Paro’s vibrant main shopping district.
Highlights of Your Day
- Arrival in Paro
- Experience: Feel the excitement as you land in one of the world’s most beautiful airports, surrounded by towering mountains. Your guide will greet you and ensure a smooth start to your journey.
- Significance: A warm welcome sets the tone for your adventure in the Land of the Thunder Dragon.
- Acclimatization and Lunch
- Experience: Take it easy to adjust to the altitude and enjoy a delicious traditional Bhutanese lunch.
- Significance: Proper acclimatization is key to enjoying your time in Bhutan.
- Explore Paro Valley
- Experience: Drive to the north of Paro Valley, where the Paro Chu River flows. This area is known for its serene beauty and is home to the rare ibisbill bird, which can often be spotted along the riverbanks.
- Significance: This gentle exploration introduces you to Bhutan’s natural beauty and unique wildlife.
- Evening Stroll in Paro Town
- Experience: End the day with a walk through Paro’s main shopping district, where you can browse local shops and soak in the vibrant atmosphere.
- Significance: This is a chance to relax and connect with the local culture.
Today, dive into the heart of Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital, as you explore its rich cultural and natural treasures. Visit the National Museum housed in the historic Ta Dzong, marvel at the grandeur of Thimphu Dzong, and enjoy a scenic drive to Dodina, where you can spot rare birds like the black-faced laughingthrush and brown dipper.
Highlights of Your Day
- Visit the National Museum (Ta Dzong)
- Experience: Explore the National Museum, housed in the historic Ta Dzong, a former watchtower built in the 17th century. Discover its collection of antique Thangka paintings, traditional textiles, weapons, armor, household objects, and historic artifacts.
- Significance: The museum offers a comprehensive overview of Bhutan’s culture, history, and natural heritage.
- Explore Thimphu Dzong
- Experience: Visit Thimphu Dzong, the largest dzong in Bhutan and the seat of the King’s office. Admire its stunning architecture, intricate woodwork, and serene surroundings.
- Significance: This dzong represents Bhutan’s rich history, culture, and governance, making it a must-visit landmark.
- Scenic Drive to Dodina
- Experience: Drive to Dodina, located north of Thimphu Valley. This area is a haven for birdwatchers, where you can spot rare birds like the black-faced laughingthrush, brown dipper, spotted laughingthrush, and fire-capped tit.
- Significance: Dodina offers a peaceful escape into nature and a chance to connect with Bhutan’s diverse wildlife.
Today, embark on a scenic journey from Thimphu to Punakha, crossing the breathtaking Dochula Pass and exploring the majestic Punakha Dzong. Along the way, enjoy stunning views, spot rare birds, and immerse yourself in Bhutan’s rich history and culture.
Highlights of Your Day
- Dochula Pass (3,100 meters)
- Experience: Stop at Dochula Pass, adorned with 108 chortens built by the Queen Mother, Ashi Dorji Wangmo Wangchuck, to commemorate Bhutan’s victory and honor the souls lost. Enjoy panoramic views of the Himalayas and keep an eye out for rare birds like the Satyr Tragopan, Spotted Nutcracker, and Ultramarine Flycatcher.
- Significance: Dochula Pass is a place of spiritual significance and natural beauty, offering breathtaking views and a peaceful atmosphere.
- Punakha Dzong
- Experience: Visit Punakha Dzong, built in 1637 at the confluence of the Pho Chu (Male River) and Mo Chu (Female River). This stunning fortress is a masterpiece of Bhutanese architecture and serves as the winter home for the clergy, led by the Chief Abbott (Je Khenpo).
- Significance: Punakha Dzong is one of Bhutan’s most iconic landmarks, representing the country’s rich history, craftsmanship, and spiritual traditions.
Today, immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Bhutan as you drive to Menchuna for a morning of birdwatching. Descend through cold broad-leaved forests, spotting rare and colorful birds like the Scarlet Finch, Slaty-backed Forktail, and Verditer Flycatcher. Afterward, continue your journey to Punakha, where you’ll relax and enjoy the serene atmosphere.
Highlights of Your Day
- Birdwatching in Menchuna
- Experience: Drive to Menchuna and begin your birdwatching adventure. Descend through lush, cold broad-leaved forests, where you can spot rare birds like the Scarlet Finch, Black Drongo, Chestnut-bellied Nuthatch, Slaty-backed Forktail, Gorgeted Flycatcher, White-throated Laughingthrush, Eurasian Jay, Wedge-tailed Green Pigeon, Mountain Imperial Pigeon, and Verditer Flycatcher.
- Significance: Menchuna is a birdwatcher’s paradise, offering a chance to connect with Bhutan’s diverse wildlife and pristine nature.
- Drive to Punakha
- Experience: After birdwatching, continue your drive to Punakha, enjoying the scenic landscapes along the way.
- Significance: Punakha is a peaceful and picturesque destination, perfect for relaxing after a morning of exploration.
Today, immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Bhutan as you drive to Tashithang for a morning of birdwatching. Explore the warm broad-leaved forests and riverbanks, where you can spot rare and colorful birds like the Great Barbet, Palla’s Fish Eagle, Golden-throated Barbet, and Pied Kingfisher. Afterward, return to Punakha to relax and enjoy the serene atmosphere.
Highlights of Your Day
Birdwatching in Tashithang
Experience: Drive to Tashithang and begin your birdwatching adventure in the warm broad-leaved forests. Spot rare birds like the Great Barbet, Barred Cuckoo Dove, Magpie Robin, Green Magpie, Palla’s Fish Eagle, Osprey, River Lapwing, Ruddy Shelduck, Eurasian Wigeon, Common Merganser, Pied Kingfisher, Red-vented Bulbul, Golden-throated Barbet, Kalij Pheasant, Orange-bellied Leafbird, Common Buzzard, Great Cormorant, and Crested Bunting.
Significance: Tashithang is a birdwatcher’s paradise, offering a chance to connect with Bhutan’s diverse wildlife and pristine nature.
Return to Punakha
Experience: After birdwatching, drive back to Punakha, enjoying the scenic landscapes along the way.
Significance: Punakha is a peaceful and picturesque destination, perfect for relaxing after a morning of exploration.
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Today, embark on a scenic drive from Punakha to Gangtey, passing through Wangdue, one of Bhutan’s major towns. As you climb into the Phobjikha Valley, enjoy the changing landscapes from semi-tropical vegetation to alpine forests of rhododendrons and dwarf bamboo. Spend the afternoon exploring the valley, home to the endangered Black-Necked Cranes, and visit the Crane Center to learn about these majestic birds.
Highlights of Your Day
- Drive to Gangtey via Wangdue
- Experience: Depart from Punakha and drive to Gangtey, passing through Wangdue, a bustling town and district headquarters of Western Bhutan. Enjoy the changing scenery as you climb from semi-tropical vegetation to the alpine environment of Phobjikha Valley.
- Significance: This drive showcases the diverse landscapes of Bhutan, from lush valleys to high-altitude forests.
- Explore Phobjikha Valley
- Experience: Arrive in Phobjikha Valley, a serene and remote valley surrounded by mountains. This valley is the winter home of the endangered Black-Necked Cranes, which migrate here from Tibet.
- Significance: Phobjikha is a place of natural beauty and ecological importance, offering a peaceful escape into nature.
- Visit the Crane Center
- Experience: Visit the Crane Center, located in the heart of the valley. Learn about the Black-Necked Cranes, their migration patterns, and the conservation efforts to protect them.
- Significance: This visit highlights Bhutan’s commitment to environmental conservation and offers a unique connection to its wildlife.
- Afternoon Walk in the Valley
- Experience: Take a peaceful walk through the valley, exploring the habitat of the cranes and enjoying the stunning landscapes.
- Significance: This walk allows you to connect with the natural beauty and tranquility of Phobjikha.
Today, start your day early with a study of the Black-Necked Cranes and other birds in Phobjikha Valley. Then, embark on a scenic drive to Trongsa, crossing the Pele La Pass (3,300 meters) and passing through diverse forests. Along the way, visit the Chendebji Chorten and spot rare birds like the Himalayan Monal Pheasant, Satyr Tragopan, and Fire-tailed Sunbird.
Highlights of Your Day
Morning Crane Behavior Study
Experience: Begin your day with an early morning study of the Black-Necked Cranes and other birds in Phobjikha Valley. Observe their behavior and learn about their habitat.
Significance: This is a rare opportunity to connect with Bhutan’s wildlife and understand its conservation efforts.
Drive to Trongsa via Pele La Pass
Experience: Depart from Phobjikha and drive to Trongsa, crossing the Pele La Pass (3,300 meters). Enjoy the stunning views and diverse landscapes, from warm broad-leaved forests to cold coniferous forests.
Significance: This drive showcases the natural beauty and biodiversity of Bhutan.
Visit Chendebji Chorten
Experience: Stop at Chendebji Chorten, a historic stupa built in the 18th century. This chorten is modeled after the Swayambhunath Stupa in Nepal and is a peaceful spot for reflection.
Significance: This chorten is a symbol of Bhutan’s spiritual heritage and offers a serene break during your journey.
Birdwatching Along the Way
Experience: Keep an eye out for rare birds like the Mountain Bulbul, Striated Bulbul, Common Kestrel, Spot-winged Grosbeak, Mountain Hawk Eagle, Ward’s Trogon, Satyr Tragopan, Whiskered Yuhina, Wall Creeper, Himalayan Swiftlet, Himalayan Monal Pheasant, Blood Pheasant, Snow Pigeon, Crossbills, Fire-tailed Sunbird, and Plain Mountain Finch.
Significance: This birdwatching opportunity adds excitement and connection to Bhutan’s natural beauty.
Today, embark on a thrilling birdwatching adventure as you drive south of Trongsa to the Tingtibi Valley and Namling areas, home to some of Bhutan’s best-unexplored forests. Spot rare birds like the Yellow-rumped Honeyguide, Ward’s Trogon, Satyr Tragopan, and Chestnut-breasted Partridge in these pristine cold broad-leaved forests.
Highlights of Your Day
- Drive to Tingtibi Valley
- Experience: Depart from Trongsa and drive south to the Tingtibi Valley, a hidden gem known for its rich biodiversity and unexplored forests.
- Significance: This journey takes you through some of Bhutan’s most remote and beautiful landscapes.
- Birdwatching in Yeshi Zam
- Experience: Begin your birdwatching adventure in Yeshi Zam, one of the best places to spot the rare Yellow-rumped Honeyguide. Explore the cold broad-leaved forests and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
- Significance: Yeshi Zam is a birdwatcher’s paradise, offering a chance to connect with Bhutan’s diverse wildlife.
- Birdwatching in Namling
- Experience: Continue your birdwatching in the Namling areas, known for their pristine and unexplored forests. Look out for rare birds like Ward’s Trogon, Satyr Tragopan, Grey-chinned Minivet, Chestnut-breasted Partridge, and Striated Laughingthrush.
- Significance: These forests are a treasure trove of biodiversity, offering a unique and immersive birdwatching experience.
Today, immerse yourself in the vibrant world of Bhutan’s warm broad-leaved forests as you embark on a birdwatching adventure. Spot rare and colorful birds like the Rufous-necked Hornbill, Blue-throated Bee-eater, Maroon Oriole, Racket-tailed Drongo, Red-headed Trogon, and Great Hornbill. This day is all about connecting with Bhutan’s rich biodiversity and enjoying the beauty of its lush forests.
Highlights of Your Day
- Birdwatching in Warm Broad-Leaved Forests
- Experience: Spend the day exploring the warm broad-leaved forests, home to some of Bhutan’s most colorful and rare birds. Look out for species like the Rufous-necked Hornbill, Blue-throated Bee-eater, Maroon Oriole, Racket-tailed Drongo, Red-headed Trogon, Grey Treepie, Grey Nightjar, Hill Prinia, Asian Emerald Cuckoo, and Great Hornbill.
- Significance: These forests are a birdwatcher’s paradise, offering a chance to connect with Bhutan’s diverse wildlife.
- Peaceful Exploration
- Experience: Enjoy a peaceful day walking through the forests, listening to the calls of birds and soaking in the natural beauty.
Significance: This is a chance to relax and immerse yourself in the tranquility of Bhutan’s wilderness.
Today, embark on a thrilling birdwatching adventure as you drive south of Trongsa to the Tingtibi Valley and Namling areas, home to some of Bhutan’s best-unexplored forests. Spot rare birds like the Yellow-rumped Honeyguide, Ward’s Trogon, Satyr Tragopan, and Chestnut-breasted Partridge in these pristine cold broad-leaved forests.
Highlights of Your Day
Drive to Tingtibi Valley
Experience: Depart from Trongsa and drive south to the Tingtibi Valley, a hidden gem known for its rich biodiversity and unexplored forests.
Significance: This journey takes you through some of Bhutan’s most remote and beautiful landscapes.
Birdwatching in Yeshi Zam
Experience: Begin your birdwatching adventure in Yeshi Zam, one of the best places to spot the rare Yellow-rumped Honeyguide. Explore the cold broad-leaved forests and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
Significance: Yeshi Zam is a birdwatcher’s paradise, offering a chance to connect with Bhutan’s diverse wildlife.
Birdwatching in Namling
Experience: Continue your birdwatching in the Namling areas, known for their pristine and unexplored forests. Look out for rare birds like Ward’s Trogon, Satyr Tragopan, Grey-chinned Minivet, Chestnut-breasted Partridge, and Striated Laughingthrush.
Significance: These forests are a treasure trove of biodiversity, offering a unique and immersive birdwatching experience.
Today, embark on a scenic drive from Trongsa to Thimphu, crossing the breathtaking Pele La Pass (3,300 meters) and Dochula Pass (3,100 meters). Along the way, stop to visit the historic Wangdue Dzong, a stunning fortress that offers a glimpse into Bhutan’s rich history. End the day with a relaxing evening in Thimphu, where you’ll enjoy dinner and an overnight stay.
Highlights of Your Day
Drive Over Pele La Pass
Experience: Depart early from Trongsa and drive over the Pele La Pass (3,300 meters), a high-altitude pass offering stunning views of the Himalayan landscapes.
Significance: This pass is a gateway to central Bhutan and a highlight of your journey.
Visit Wangdue Dzong
Experience: Stop at Wangdue Dzong, a historic fortress perched on a ridge overlooking the Punakha Valley. Explore its grand architecture and learn about its role in Bhutan’s history.
Significance: Wangdue Dzong is a symbol of Bhutan’s cultural and political heritage, offering a fascinating glimpse into its past.
Drive Over Dochula Pass
Experience: Continue your drive to Dochula Pass (3,100 meters), adorned with 108 chortens and offering panoramic views of the Himalayan mountain ranges (on clear days).
Significance: Dochula Pass is a spiritual and scenic highlight, providing a peaceful break during your journey.
Arrive in Thimphu
Experience: Arrive in Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital, and check into your hotel. Enjoy a relaxing evening and a delicious dinner.
Significance: Thimphu is a vibrant city that blends tradition and modernity, offering a perfect end to your day.
Today marks the end of your unforgettable journey through Bhutan. After an early breakfast at your hotel, your guide will escort you to Paro International Airport for your flight back home. Take a moment to reflect on the memories you’ve made, the friendships you’ve formed, and the beauty you’ve experienced in this magical land.
Highlights of Your Day
- Breakfast at the Hotel
- Experience: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel, reminiscing about the incredible experiences of your journey.
- Significance: This is a peaceful moment to savor the memories of your adventure.
- Transfer to Paro Airport
- Experience: Your guide will accompany you to Paro International Airport, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free transfer.
- Significance: A heartfelt farewell from your guide symbolizes the warmth and hospitality of Bhutan.
