Want to explore Bird watching in Bhutan, but don’t know where to start? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. Bhutan is not just a country of stunning landscapes and ancient monasteries but also a paradise for birdwatchers. Birdwatching in Bhutan offers a chance to explore some of the most untouched and ecologically diverse regions, including Royal Manas National Park In Bhutan.
For those looking for these immersive experiences, exploring the best Bhutan Packages can make this dream a reality. So, pack your camera and get ready to explore the best bird watching sites in Bhutan.
Best Places for Spotting Birds in Bhutan
1. Royal Manas National Park
Located in the southernmost region of Bhutan this is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Bhutan’s oldest protected area.
Apart from 340 species of birds, there are various animals to witness like Bengal Tigers, Asian Elephants, and more.
Birdwatchers visiting Royal Manas can expect to encounter species such as the Great Hornbill, Rufous-necked Hornbill, and the endangered White-bellied Heron.
Guided tours are available here so that you can not only observe birds but also get useful information about them.
For a more immersive experience, this place offers a lot of hiking and trekking trails including short and multi-day treks, if you want you camp inside the park, of course with proper permissions.
Manas National Park is a top choice for birdwatching enthusiasts exploring Bhutan.
2. Jigme Dorji National Park
Jigme Dorji National Park is another gem for birdwatching in Bhutan. It is one of Bhutan’s largest protected areas.
The whole national park has a rich ecosystem for wildlife and has a wide variety of bird species.
Birdwatchers visiting this park can expect to see species such as the Himalayan Monal, Rufous-necked Hornbill, and the White-bellied Heron, one of the world’s rarest birds.
Among all these, Himalayan Monal is something that will surely make you stop and take out your camera.
The orange-blue-green color of this bird will remind you of peacocks, but smaller in size.
You can trek through the trails to reach some heights, this will not only make you witness some birds but also at the top, you’ll be greeted by a stunning view.
Special guided tours are available to witness birds and other animals. Opt for these to get more knowledgeable information on birds.
The park is really big in area, so try exploring each hotspot to witness more than just birds. It is a must-visit place for anyone interested in Birdwatching In Bhutan.
3. Bumdeling Wildlife Sanctuary
Located in the northeastern part of Bhutan, Bumdeling Wildlife is among the top bird watching sites in Bhutan, especially for migratory birds.
If you’re also interested in watching migratory birds than other native birds, then this is the place for you.
The Black-necked Crane is the most famous here. This bird migrates from the Tibetan Plateaus in winter.
There are also other types of birds here, such as Pallas’s Fish Eagle, the Blyth’s Kingfisher, and the Ward’s Trogon.
Among all these, Blyth’s Kingfisher is a sight not to be missed. This bird has rich shades of blue, green, and orange.
Visiting Bumdeling Wildlife Sanctuary offers a unique chance to witness diverse bird species in one of Bhutan’s most beautiful environments.
4. Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary
Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary, located in the far east of Bhutan, is one of the most remote bird watching sites in Bhutan.
This sanctuary is known for its unique highland ecosystems and the cultural heritage of the semi-nomadic Brokpa people.
The sanctuary offers several rare and endangered bird species, making it a significant spot for birdwatching in Bhutan.
Birdwatchers in Sakteng can expect to see species such as the Blood Pheasant, Satyr Tragopan, and the Grey-headed Parrotbill.
Blood Pheasant and Satyr Tragopan are the most beautiful ones.
The sanctuary’s remote location offers a truly immersive birdwatching experience, where you can connect deeply with nature to see some of the rarest birds in Bhutan.
5. Phobjikha Valley
Phobjikha is a peaceful valley which is why it is one of the best places for birdwatching in Bhutan.
This valley has lush green mountains and an environment that is perfect for birds.
Here, you can witness the Black-necked Crane which is a migratory bird from the Tibetan Plateau, and it can be seen only in winter.
Not just that, when you start exploring the village through various forests and gardens, you’ll see other types of birds like Eurasian Wigeon, Common Teal, and Ruddy Shelduck. These are basically a type of duck that you can find in small ponds.
Exploring these Bird Watching Sites in Bhutan offers nature lovers and birdwatchers an opportunity to observe these beautiful birds in their natural habitat.
Tips on Birdwatching in Bhutan
First things first, the best time for birdwatching in Bhutan is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is favorable, and bird activity is at its peak.
Secondly, carry essential things like binoculars and appropriate clothing for varying weather conditions.
Hiring a local guide is highly recommended, as their knowledge of the area and bird species can greatly enhance the birdwatching experience.
Minimize noise and don’t disturb the natural habitat of birds. It is crucial to ensure a positive impact on the environment.
Lastly, don’t forget a good camera to capture one of the most stunning bird species in the world.
Conclusion:
These were some of the best bird watching sites in Bhutan. If you’re interested in bird watching and nature then visiting these places is highly recommended. Remember to respect nature while enjoying your bird-watching tour.