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A Paradise for Avian Enthusiasts

OVERVIEW

Birding Sites in Bhutan

Bhutan, with its pristine forests and diverse topography, is a haven for bird lovers. Over 750 species of birds, including some globally threatened and endemic species, make this Himalayan kingdom a sought-after destination for birdwatching.

Birding in Bhutan is more than just a visual treat; it’s a deeply immersive experience in nature’s untouched beauty. From high-altitude passes to lush river valleys, Bhutan’s diverse ecosystems promise an unforgettable birdwatching adventure.

Bhutan’s commitment to conservation, coupled with its varied ecosystems, ensures thriving habitats for its avian residents and migratory visitors. Here are some of the top birding sites in Bhutan:

HIGHLIGHTS

Western Bhutan

Bird-Watching Sites in Western Bhutan. Western Bhutan, encompassing five distinct districts, offers excellent birdwatching opportunities. Here are some key birding sites worth exploring:
  • Paro, the gateway to birding in Bhutan.
  • Chelela Pass, a birdwatcher’s paradise.
  • Dochula Pass, a scenic birding destination.
  • Lamperi Botanical Garden, a biodiverse haven.
  • Punakha – Gasa, discover the rich birdlife in Jigme Dorji National Park.
  • Bajo, birdwatching along the Punatshangchu river.
  • Nobding, a birdwatcher’s delight
  • Phobjekha Valley, a winter haven for endangered Black-necked Cranes.
  • Pelela Old Abandon Road, a birdwatcher’s paradise.

HIGHLIGHTS

Central-East Bhutan

Spanning Bumthang, Trongsa, and Zhemgang districts, offers diverse birdwatching opportunities. While Bumthang and Trongsa provide rewarding birding experiences, it’s the isolated Zhemgang District with its expansive forest cover that charms bird enthusiasts. Explore these essential bird watching sites across the region:
  • Yotongla Pass, a birdwatcher’s paradise.
  • Tharpaling Monastery, a hidden gem.
  • Trongsa to Koshala Stretch, ideal for birding.
  • Zhemgang – Dakphal Road, premier birding site.
  • Tingtibe – Gomphu – Panbang, gateway to Royal Manas National Park.

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Chelela Pass

Situated between Haa and Paro, features semi-alpine meadows that host numerous fascinating species. Notably, you can observe three different pheasants: the Himalayan Monal, Kalij, and Blood Pheasant. The Satyr Tragopan is visible during April and May. Depending on the season, various Rosefinches, such as the Himalayan White-browed, Dark-rumped, and Dark-breasted Rosefinches, can be found here. Other notable species include the Blue-fronted, White-throated, and Hodgson’s Redstarts, Alpine, Rufous-breasted, and Himalayan Accentors, two species of Grosbeak, Darjeeling and Rufous-bellied Woodpeckers, Snow Pigeon, Hodgson’s Treecreeper, and a variety of Tits. Chelela Pass is a key birding site in Bhutan and is included in any birding itinerary in the region.

Paro River (Pa Chu) and Wetlands. The Paro River and surrounding wetlands are prime locations for spotting the Ibisbill, a special bird of the Himalayas with an elegant stature and long, curved bill. Other birds of interest in this area include the River Lapwing, Brown Dipper, White Wagtail, Black-tailed Crake, and regular winter sightings of the Solitary Snipe.

Paro

Serving as the gateway to Bhutan, is an ideal starting point for birdwatchers. Its convenient access allows birding enthusiasts to experience the vibrant avian diversity of Western Bhutan, especially for those on a short visit.

Dochula Pass

The scenic route between Thimphu and Punakha, features diverse habitats including conifer trees, rhododendrons, oaks, and bamboo forests. This area is home to various charming bird species, including the impressive Spotted Laughingthrush and the Fire-tailed Myzornis, which appears during the spring months. Other notable species include the Great Parrotbill, Green-tailed Sunbird, Yellow-billed Blue Magpie, and White-collared Blackbird.

Lamperi Botanical Garden

Bhutan’s first botanical park, serves as the scenic backdrop to Dochula Pass. Covering 47 square miles (120 km²), it connects Jigme Singye Wangchuck National Park and Jigme Dorji Wangchuck National Park. Birding within the central area offers a delightful hour-long walk where visitors can encounter key species like Darjeeling and Rufous-bellied Woodpeckers, Brown Parrotbill, Streaked-breasted Scimitar Babbler, and Black-tailed Crake. Seasonal sightings include Golden-breasted and Black-throated Parrotbill. In winter, the park hosts species such as Alpine Thrush, Blue-fronted and Hodgson’s Redstart, and Rufous-breasted Accentor. Ward’s Trogon is a highlight species, alongside 46 species of rhododendrons.

Punakha

Renowned for its diverse habitats, including riverine and warm cool broadleaved forests, this park is a haven for bird enthusiasts. Spot key bird species like the endangered Palla’s Fish Eagle and other critically endangered species. Observe various woodpeckers such as the Bay, Lesser, and Greater Yellownape, along with the Tawny Fish Owl. Explore unique Forktail species, including the Little, Slaty-backed, and Spotted Forktails. Encounter elusive birds like the Chestnut-headed and Slaty-bellied Tesia, Lesser Shortwing, and the recently classified Spotted Elachura, now recognized as its own unique family. Occasionally, you may also spot the critically endangered White-bellied Heron.

Bajo

Situated along the Punatshangchu River, features riverine habitats predominantly characterized by cobbles and sandy shingles, making it an excellent location for observing waterbirds from late fall to early spring. Here, visitors can spot a variety of ducks, including the Ruddy Shelduck, Common Merganser, Great Cormorant, Mandarin Duck, and more. Other shorebirds present include the Ibisbill, River Lapwing, Little-ringed Plover, and various sandpipers. Occasionally, rare and endangered species such as the White-bellied Heron and Palla’s Fish Eagle are also sighted in this area.

Nobding

Characterized by its extensive cool broadleaved forests, harboring a diverse array of bird species. Notable highlights include the highly sought-after Ward’s Trogon and the Yellow-rumped Honeyguide, one of Asia’s two honeyguide species. This area also hosts the Himalayan Cutia, Fire-capped Tit, Blyth’s Shrike Babbler, Asian Emerald Cuckoo, Short-billed Minivet, and Bhutan Laughingthrush, prominent during the spring months. The rock cliffs alongside the road provide ideal habitat for wintering Wallcreepers, while the small shrubs and bushes here are home to the Fire-tailed Myzornis, both observed during the winter season.

Phobjekha Valley

One of the largest marshland areas, serving as a crucial winter habitat for the endangered Black-necked Cranes. Out of a global population exceeding 17,000, more than 600 Black-necked Cranes migrate to this valley each winter. Due to its significance as a habitat for these cranes, Phobjekha Valley has been designated as a conservation area.

While the valley is primarily known for its crane population, it also hosts a limited number of other species. Notable among these are the Himalayan Owl, Oriental Skylark, and Hen Harrier. During the winter, a few species of Thrushes and Redstarts also visit the valley. Additionally, there have been occasional sightings of the rare Woodsnipe.

Pelela Old Abandon Road

Offers open meadows and lush Rhododendron forests, creating ideal habitats for various notable bird species. Bird enthusiasts can spot the magnificent Himalayan Monal, Blood Pheasant, Spotted and Black-faced Laughingthrushes, and Brown Parrotbill in this area. The road also attracts White-winged and Collared Grosbeaks, White-throated Redstart, White-browed and Dark-rumped Rosefinches, White-browed Fulvetta, and the Chestnut-tailed Minla.

Additionally, birdwatchers may encounter the Red-headed Bullfinch, the elusive Bar-winged Wren Babbler, and the skulking Scaly-breasted Cupwing. During the spring months, this road is particularly favorable for spotting the enchanting Satyr Tragopan.

Yotongla Pass

Nestled amid fir, rhododendron, and bamboo forests, Yotongla Pass hosts a rich array of avian species. Birdwatchers can admire Great and Brown Parrotbills, Red-headed Bullfinches, Streaked-breasted and Slender-billed Scimitar Babblers, Scaly-breasted and Bar-winged Wren Babblers, Green-tailed and Mrs. Gould’s Sunbirds, and the elusive Satyr Tragopan—a sought-after sighting in Bhutan.

Tharpaling Monastery

Lesser-known among birders, has become a sanctuary for bird photographers. Capture stunning images of the Himalayan Monal, often seen around the monastery due to its affinity with the monks. Other notable species include the Snow Pigeon, Himalayan White-browed Rosefinch, White-throated and Blue-fronted Redstarts, Alpine and Rufous-breasted Accentors, and more.

Trongsa to Koshala Stretch

This stretch offers varied habitats—from settlements to farmlands and scrublands—supporting a diverse bird population. Look out for the Crested Bunting, Rufous-necked and White-crested Laughingthrushes, Blue-bearded Bee-eaters, Streak-breasted Scimitars, and White-browed Scimitar Babblers. Spot woodpeckers like the Rufous, Bay, and Crimson-breasted varieties, as well as Lesser and Greater Yellownapes and the Speckled Piculet. Keep an eye out for Black-throated and Himalayan Prinias, and chances to observe birds of prey including the Black Eagle, Rufous-bellied Eagle, and Common Kestrel.

Zhemgang – Dakphal Road

Explore cool and warm broadleaved forests, home to rare species like the Rufous-necked Hornbill and Beautiful Nuthatch. Encounter various Laughingthrushes such as the Bhutan Laughingthrush, Blue-winged Laughingthrush, Rufous-chinned Laughingthrush, and Red-faced Liocichla. Common sightings include Scarlet and Grey-chinned Minivets, the Himalayan Cutia, Blyth’s Shrike Babbler, and a variety of Tits including the Sultan, Yellow-cheeked, Green-backed, and Black-throated Tits. Don’t miss the elusive Blue-naped Pitta during spring.

Tingtibe – Gomphu – Panbang

Journey through subtropical forests and bamboo groves towards Royal Manas National Park, Bhutan’s oldest. Encounter the White-hooded Babbler, Pale-billed Parrotbill, Pale-headed and Grey-capped Pygmy Woodpeckers, Bay and Fulvous-breasted Woodpeckers, and the White-browed Piculet. Look for the Grey-throated Babbler, Mountain Tailorbird, Yellow-bellied, and Rufous-faced Warblers, and raptors like the Crested Serpent-Eagle, Emerald Dove, and Red-headed Trogon. Watch for the Lesser Yellownape, Long-tailed and Silver-breasted Broadbills, Bar-winged Flycatcher-shrike, White-bellied Erpornis, Bronzed and Lesser racket-tailed Drongos, and the Rufous-necked and Great Hornbills. Keep an eye out for owls including the Spot-bellied Eagle Owl, Tawny Fish Owl, Brown Boobook, Asian-barred Owlet, and Collared Owlet. Don’t miss the chance to spot Barbets such as the Great, Blue-throated, and Golden-throated, and watch for the critically endangered White-bellied Heron.

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