Nepal Bird Watching Tour – 13 Days
Introduction
A Nepal Bird Watching Tour is a perfect way to explore the country’s rich natural heritage. Nepal, officially the Federal Democratic Republic of Nepal, is a landlocked country in South Asia between India and China. It is mainly situated in the Himalayas but also includes parts of the Indo-Gangetic Plain. Nepal is a birdwatchers’ paradise, with national parks & conservation areas making up a large part of its territory. More than 850 species of birds are found in Nepal, and surprisingly, a good number of these birds can be spotted in and around the Kathmandu Valley alone.
Bird watching is possible in any corner of Nepal, be it in the sweltering plains where Koshi Tappu, Chitwan, and Bardiya are the main sites, while in the mountainous region, the Everest and Annapurna regions boast other well-known species of birds. The Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve in the eastern Terai is the place to be. Birdwatchers cannot miss this wonderful reserve, which abounds in birds of all kinds. It’s a place where one sees trees packed with birds as if posing for a photograph.
The hills around the Kathmandu valley especially Nagarjun, Godavari and Phulchowki are popular bird-watching areas and the Taudaha Lake on the way to Dakshinkali is ideal for watching migratory waterfowl during the winter months.
The higher Himalayan regions are home to a wide array of raptors and birds of prey, boasting a diverse range of species. But Koshi Tappu has better sightings of an incredible variety of both resident and migratory birds that come from as far away as Siberia. Nepal’s national bird is the lophophorus, Impeyan Pheasant, locally called Danphe, which is found in the Himalayan region. Bird-watching trips are organized by most resorts and are accompanied by experienced guides.
Outline Itinerary for Nepal Bird Watching Tour
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu
Day 2: Fly to Biratnagar and drive to Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve
Day 3: Full-day bird watching at Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve
Day 4: Bird watching and nature activities in Koshi Tappu
Day 5: Fly back to Kathmandu
Day 6: Fly to Nepalgunj and drive to Bardiya National Park
Day 7: Full-day bird watching in Bardiya National Park
Day 8: Bird watching and wildlife exploration in Bardiya National Park
Day 9: Drive to Nepalgunj Airport and fly to Kathmandu
Day 10: Bird watching at Phulchowki and Godawari Botanical Garden
Day 11: Bird watching in Shivapuri National Park
Day 12: Bird watching around Taudaha Lake
Day 13: Final Departure
Alternative Tour for Nepal Bird Watching Tour
If you have a deep appreciation for birdwatching and Nepal’s stunning biodiversity but want to explore beyond the usual spots, there are plenty of fantastic alternatives. From subtropical jungles teeming with rare species to high-altitude habitats where elusive Himalayan birds thrive, Nepal offers some truly rewarding birding experiences.
- Bardia Tiger Tracking Tour – 7 Days: A thrilling combination of tiger tracking and birdwatching in the heart of Bardia National Park, rich in both wildlife and bird species.
- Chitwan Wildlife Safari – 3 Days: Discover the bird-rich jungles of Chitwan National Park, famous for its diverse wildlife and rare bird sightings, including endangered species.
- Red Panda Tour in Nepal – 9 Days: A high-altitude trek in search of the elusive red panda, offering numerous birdwatching opportunities along the way in pristine forest habitats.
Detailed Itinerary
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Day 01: Arrival at Kathmandu.
Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, our representative will warmly welcome you and transfer you to your hotel. After check-in, you will have time to relax and recover from your journey. In the evening, meet your birding guide for a trip briefing, where you'll receive an overview of the upcoming bird-watching adventure across Nepal's diverse habitats. Overnight at a hotel in Kathmandu.
Altitude: 1300mMeals: BreakfastAccommodation: 5 Star hotel in Kathmandu -
Day 02: Fly to Biratnagar and drive to Koshi Tappu.
After breakfast, take a scenic flight to Biratnagar in eastern Nepal. Upon arrival, drive approximately 2–3 hours to Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve, Nepal's premier destination for bird watching. The reserve is renowned for its wetlands, grasslands, and riverine forests, providing habitat for hundreds of resident and migratory bird species. After checking into your lodge, enjoy an introductory birding walk around the reserve. Overnight at Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve.
Altitude: 75 mMeals: Breakfast / lunch / DinnerAccommodation: Teahouse -
Day 3: Full-Day Bird Watching at Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve
Spend the entire day exploring the wetlands, grasslands, and riverbanks of Koshi Tappu with your experienced birding guide. Look for endangered species, migratory waterfowl, kingfishers, storks, herons, eagles, and numerous other birds that inhabit the reserve. Between birding sessions, enjoy the peaceful natural surroundings and stunning landscapes. Overnight at the lodge.
Altitude: 75 mMeals: Breakfast / Lunch / DinnerAccommodation: Teahouse -
Day 4: Bird Watching and Nature Activities in Koshi Tappu
Another rewarding day awaits as you continue exploring different sections of the reserve. Early morning offers the best opportunity to observe active birdlife, while the afternoon can include nature walks and wildlife viewing. Besides birds, the reserve is also home to wild water buffalo, deer, and various reptiles. Overnight at Koshi Tappu.
Altitude: 75 mMeals: Breakfast / Lunch / DinnerAccommodation: Tea House -
Day 05: Fly back to Kathmandu.
After breakfast, drive back to Biratnagar Airport and board your flight to Kathmandu. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure. You may explore nearby markets, relax at the hotel, or visit local cafés. Overnight in Kathmandu.
Altitude: 1300mMeals: BreakfastAccommodation: 5 Star hotel in Kathmandu -
Day 6: Fly to Nepalgunj and Drive to Bardiya National Park
After breakfast, take a morning flight to Nepalgunj in western Nepal. From the airport, drive to Bardiya National Park, Nepal's largest and least disturbed national park in the lowland Terai. After checking into your jungle lodge, enjoy a short walk around the surrounding forest and prepare for the exciting birding adventure ahead. Overnight in Bardiya.
Altitude: 152 mMeals: Breakfast / Lunch / DinnerAccommodation: Tea House -
Day 7: Full-Day Bird Watching in Bardiya National Park
Begin your day early to take advantage of the active birdlife in the park. Bardiya is home to over 400 bird species, including hornbills, kingfishers, woodpeckers, eagles, owls, and many migratory birds. Your experienced guide will lead you through forests, riverbanks, and grasslands while sharing fascinating information about the local ecosystem. Overnight at the lodge.
Altitude: 152 mMeals: Breakfast / Lunch / DinnerAccommodation: Tea House -
Day 8: Bird Watching and Wildlife Exploration in Bardiya National Park
Continue your exploration of Bardiya National Park with visits to different habitats where new bird species can be observed. Along with exceptional bird watching, you may encounter wildlife such as spotted deer, wild elephants, crocodiles, and, if fortunate, the elusive Royal Bengal Tiger. Return to the lodge for dinner and an overnight stay.
Altitude: 152 mMeals: Breakfast / Lunch / DinnerAccommodation: Tea House -
Day 9: Drive to Nepalgunj Airport and Fly to Kathmandu
After breakfast, drive back to Nepalgunj Airport and catch your return flight to Kathmandu. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel and enjoy a relaxing evening. This is a great opportunity to organize your bird photographs or explore the city's vibrant streets. Overnight in Kathmandu.
Altitude: 1,300mMeals: BreakfastAccommodation: 5 Star hotel in Kathmandu -
Day 10: Bird Watching at Phulchowki and Godawari Botanical Garden
After an early breakfast, drive to Phulchowki Hill, the highest point surrounding Kathmandu Valley and one of Nepal's finest bird-watching locations. The forests are home to colorful Himalayan bird species, including laughingthrushes, minivets, woodpeckers, barbets, and sunbirds. Later, continue to the nearby Godawari Botanical Garden for additional birding before returning to Kathmandu. Overnight at the hotel.
Altitude: 2782mMeals: Breakfast / Lunch / DinnerAccommodation: Tea House -
Day 11: Bird Watching in Shivapuri National Park
Today's excursion takes you to Shivapuri National Park, a protected forest located on the northern edge of Kathmandu Valley. The park offers excellent opportunities to observe Himalayan birds in their natural habitat while enjoying peaceful walking trails through oak and rhododendron forests. Keep an eye out for pheasants, flycatchers, owls, and various forest birds. Return to Kathmandu for the night.
Altitude: 2,732 mMeals: Breakfast / Lunch / DinnerAccommodation: Tea house -
Day 12: Bird Watching Around Taudaha Lake
Spend your final bird-watching excursion at Taudaha Lake, an important wetland located on the outskirts of Kathmandu. During the winter months, the lake attracts numerous migratory ducks and water birds, while resident species can be seen throughout the year. Enjoy a relaxed morning observing the rich birdlife before returning to Kathmandu for a farewell dinner featuring authentic Nepali cuisine. Overnight at your hotel.
Altitude: 1,300 mMeals: Breakfast / Lunch / DinnerAccommodation: Tea House -
Day 13: Final Departure
Altitude: 1300mMeals: Breakfast
What's included
- International & domestic airport transfers as per the itinerary.
- 4 nights 5-star hotel accommodation in Kathmandu on twin sharing basis (Bed and Breakfast Included).
- 2 nights 3-star hotel accommodation in Koshi tappu Wildlife reserve on twin sharing basis on BLD (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner) plan.
- All ground transportation by private vehicle. (Depending upon the group size we provide Car, Van, Jeep, Coaster, Sutlej)
- A professional English -Speaking guide for entire trip.
- Complimentary farewell dinner in a Typical Nepali cultural restaurant.
- All government taxes, VAT, Tourist Service charges and official expenses.
What's not included
- International air fare to/from Nepal.
- Entry Visa fees - at present US$30 for 15 day, US$ 50 for 30 day, and US$ 125 for three month visa on entry into Nepal.
- Lunch and Dinner in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
- Temple and monastery entry permit fees.
- Bar bills and personal expenses.
- Tips and gratuities provided to staff.
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