“Bhutan’s Avian Odyssey” offers a comprehensive exploration of Bhutan’s diverse birding habitats over 13 days. The journey begins in Paro, where birdwatchers can spot species like the Aberrant Bush Warbler and Himalayan Whistling Thrush in various ecological zones, including farmlands and evergreen forests. The tour then transitions to Thimphu, Punakha, and Gangtey, each area providing unique birding opportunities from the temperate Blue Pine forests of Thimphu to the semi-tropical zones of Punakha and the renowned Phobjikha Valley, home to the Black-necked Crane.
As the tour progresses, it ventures into the high-altitude regions of Trongsa, Bumthang, and Ura Valley, offering a range of bird species adapted to varying elevations and habitats. Highlights include the elusive Monal in Limithang and the diverse birdlife along the Chamkhar Chhu River. The tour concludes with a return to Paro, allowing for additional birding and cultural exploration before departure. This itinerary promises an enriching birding experience amidst Bhutan’s stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage.
Day 01: Arrival at Paro
Arrive at Paro International Airport, where you will be greeted by your guide and driver. After completing immigration formalities, transfer to your hotel. This evening, participate in an orientation program to familiarize yourself with the birding itinerary and what to expect over the next 13 days.
Overnight stay at the hotel in Paro (Altitude 2,280m).
Day 02: Birding in Paro
After breakfast, start your birding journey around Paro, exploring diverse habitats including farmlands, evergreen forests, riversides, and subalpine zones. Key species to look out for include the Aberrant Bush Warbler, Blyth’s Reed Warbler, Himalayan Whistling Thrush, and Common Teal. You may also visit cultural highlights like Ta Dzong, Rinpung Dzong, Kyichu Lhakhang, and hike to Taktshang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest) if time permits.
Overnight stay at the hotel in Paro (Altitude 2,280m).
Day 03: Paro to Thimphu (54 km, 2 hours)
After breakfast, drive to Thimphu, the capital city. Birding opportunities are excellent in the Thimphu valley’s Blue Pine and temperate evergreen forests. Ideal birding spots include the stream near Motithang and the areas around Begana and Cheri villages.
Overnight stay at the hotel in Thimphu (Altitude 2,320m).
Day 04: Thimphu to Punakha (75 km, 2 ½ hours)
Travel to Punakha via Dochula Pass (3,050m), enjoying panoramic views of the Eastern Himalayas. The route transitions from temperate forests to semi-tropical zones, providing a range of birding opportunities. Explore birding spots in the Punakha valley, and if time allows, visit cultural sites.
Overnight stay at the hotel in Punakha (Altitude 1,300m).
Day 05: Punakha to Gangtey (70 km, 3 hours)
Drive to Gangtey Valley, with frequent stops for birding and photography. Explore the Phobjikha Valley, renowned for its wintering Black-necked Cranes. The area also offers a variety of other bird species in the valley’s expansive green landscape.
Overnight stay at the hotel in Phubjikha (Altitude 3,000m).
Day 06: Gangtey to Trongsa (130 km, 5 hours)
Journey to Trongsa via Pele La Pass. The drive takes you through dense evergreen forests and diverse bird habitats. Although not a prime birding area, you can still spot some important species in this region.
Overnight stay at the hotel in Trongsa (Altitude 2,200m).
Day 07: Trongsa to Bumthang (68 km, 3 hours)
Drive to Bumthang, passing through varying altitudes from 2,200m in Trongsa to 3,400m at Yotong La Pass before descending to Bumthang at 2,800m. The diverse vegetation offers excellent birding opportunities in the farmlands and along the Chamkhar Chhu River. Look for species such as the Goldcrest, Blyth’s Pipit, and Common Sandpiper.
Overnight stay at the hotel in Bumthang (Altitude 2,800m).
Day 08: Birding in Ura Valley (50 km, 2 hours)
Drive to Ura Valley, the highest valley in Bumthang. The route offers birding in open countryside, fields, and pastures. Ura’s unique clustered houses and high altitude make it a special place for birdwatching.
Overnight stay at the hotel in Bumthang (Altitude 2,800m).
Day 09: Bumthang to Limithang (200 km, 5 hours)
Ascend through forests of firs and rhododendrons to Thrumshing La Pass, the highest pass in Bhutan. Descend to Sengor village, where you may spot the elusive Monal (Lophophorus impejanus), the region’s most special bird.
Overnight stay at a rural house in Limithang.
Day 10: Limithang to Bumthang (200 km, approx. 5 hours)
Return to Bumthang, with opportunities for additional birding along the way. Visit cultural sites such as Lamey Goemba, Jambay Lhakhang, and Kurjey Lhakhang. Explore the Membarstho (Burning Lake) in the afternoon.
Overnight stay at the hotel in Bumthang (Altitude 2,800m).
Day 11: Bumthang to Punakha/Wangdue (220 km, approx. 9 hours)
Drive back to Punakha, visiting Trongsa Dzong and Ta Dzong en route. Enjoy birding in the varied habitats along the way, and explore Punakha’s cultural and natural sights if time permits.
Overnight stay at the hotel in Punakha (Altitude 1,300m).
Day 12: Punakha to Paro (125 km, approx. 4 ½ hours)
Drive back to Paro, with a stop at Dochu La Pass and Tachog Lhakang. Spend the afternoon birding in Paro or relax before your departure. Enjoy your final evening in Bhutan.
Overnight stay at the hotel in Paro (Altitude 2,280m).
Day 13: Departure
After breakfast, transfer to Paro Airport for your flight to your next destination. Your guide will assist with departure formalities. Have a safe journey and cherish the birding memories from Bhutan!
For your accommodation, we have selected Department of Tourism-approved 3-star hotels, ensuring you have a comfortable and enjoyable stay throughout your trip. These hotels offer great services and amenities to enhance your experience in Bhutan.
If you would like to make any changes to the hotel selections or upgrade your stay to a higher category, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Our team is happy to assist you in customizing your accommodations to better suit your preferences.
We are here to ensure that your tour is tailored to your needs and expectations. Looking forward to hearing from you!
Day 1: Paro – Overnight stay at Riverfront Resort
Day 2: Paro – Overnight stay at Riverfront Resort
Day 3: Thimphu – Overnight stay at Hotel Dharla
Day 4: Punakha – Overnight stay at Hotel Kingaling
Day 5: Phubjikha – Overnight stay at Phubjikha Resorts
Day 6: Trongsa – overnight stay at Norbu lingka Resort
Day 7: Bumthang – Over Night Stay at Chumey Nature Resorts
Day 8: Bumthang – Over Night Stay at Chumey Nature Resorts
Day 9: Limithang – Overnight stay at Limithnag Rural Home stay
Day 10: Bumthang – Over Night Stay at Chumey Nature Resorts
Day 11: Punakha – Overnight stay at Hotel Kingaling
Day 12: Paro – Overnight stay at Riverfront Resort
Please note that the type of vehicle will be, SUV, Ertiga, Innova, H1 Bus, HiAce Bus, or Coaster Bus—will be arranged based on the number of travelers in group.
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13Days/12 Nights
Bhutan