Bird Watching In the Jungles of Nepal A Birder's Paradise
900+ bird species, three ecosystems, one unforgettable photography journey
About this experience
Embark on an exceptional birdwatching adventure through the jungles of Nepal, one of the richest destinations on Earth for bird photography. With over 900 recorded species across a remarkably compact territory, Nepal offers unmatched avian diversity — from the tropical wetlands of the Terai to the lush subtropical forests and riverine grasslands. This 13-day journey is designed for passionate bird photographers, experienced birders and nature lovers seeking far more than casual sightseeing. You'll explore some of the most prestigious birding sites in Nepal's jungles — Koshi Tappu and Chitwan — accompanied by expert naturalist guides who know the region's bird behavior, calls and best photography conditions inside out.
Highlights
- ✦Exceptional birding sites: wetlands, subtropical jungles and riverine forests in a single immersive journey
- ✦Rare and endemic species: Spiny Babbler (Nepal's only endemic bird), Bengal Florican, Sarus Crane, Great Hornbill
- ✦Aquatic bird photography: canoe and boat sessions for unique angles and close approaches
- ✦Cultural discovery of Kathmandu and Bhaktapur: Buddhist temples, sacred stupas and traditional Newari architecture
- ✦Expert local naturalist guides specialized in bird behavior, calls and ethical photography
- ✦Responsible, conservation-focused approach supporting local communities and ecosystems
- ✦Photography-friendly pace with extended observation time and optimal lighting conditions
- ✦Wildlife encounters beyond birds: rhinos, tigers, deer, crocodiles and more
- ✦Jungle lodge immersion at the heart of national parks for an authentic experience
Day by day
Day 01 : Arrival in Kathmandu — Welcome to the Himalayan Birding Capital
Warm welcome upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, transfer to your hotel in the lively Thamel district. Late afternoon photography gear calibration session with your expert guide, including a detailed briefing on target species and approach techniques.
Day 01 : Arrival in Kathmandu — Welcome to the Himalayan Birding Capital
Warm welcome upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, transfer to your hotel in the lively Thamel district. Late afternoon photography gear calibration session with your expert guide, including a detailed briefing on target species and approach techniques.
Day 02 : Cultural Discovery of Kathmandu — Temples and Valley Heritage
Explore Kathmandu's iconic cultural sites: Basantapur Durbar Square, the Swayambhunath Buddhist temple ("Monkey Temple"), and the majestic Boudhanath Stupa, one of the largest in the world. These sites are also home to interesting birdlife — pigeons, crows and raptors — offering early photography opportunities.
Day 02 : Cultural Discovery of Kathmandu — Temples and Valley Heritage
Explore Kathmandu's iconic cultural sites: Basantapur Durbar Square, the Swayambhunath Buddhist temple ("Monkey Temple"), and the majestic Boudhanath Stupa, one of the largest in the world. These sites are also home to interesting birdlife — pigeons, crows and raptors — offering early photography opportunities.
Day 03 : Shivapuri National Park — Oak and Pine Forests
Early departure to the oak and pine forests of Shivapuri National Park, a rich sanctuary for birdlife on the hills above Kathmandu Valley. Target species include Kalij Pheasant, Hill Partridge, Great Barbet and Yellow-billed Blue Magpie, as well as raptors soaring on thermal currents.
Day 03 : Shivapuri National Park — Oak and Pine Forests
Early departure to the oak and pine forests of Shivapuri National Park, a rich sanctuary for birdlife on the hills above Kathmandu Valley. Target species include Kalij Pheasant, Hill Partridge, Great Barbet and Yellow-billed Blue Magpie, as well as raptors soaring on thermal currents.
Day 04 : Phulchoki Hill — In Search of the Spiny Babbler
Pre-dawn departure to reach the summit of Phulchoki (2760m) for sunrise, with a spectacular panoramic view over the Himalaya. The day's main goal: photographing the Spiny Babbler, Nepal's only endemic bird species. In the afternoon, descent to Godavari Botanical Gardens to photograph colorful sunbirds and flowerpeckers.
Day 04 : Phulchoki Hill — In Search of the Spiny Babbler
Pre-dawn departure to reach the summit of Phulchoki (2760m) for sunrise, with a spectacular panoramic view over the Himalaya. The day's main goal: photographing the Spiny Babbler, Nepal's only endemic bird species. In the afternoon, descent to Godavari Botanical Gardens to photograph colorful sunbirds and flowerpeckers.
Day 05 : Transfer to Koshi Tappu — Gateway to the Wetlands Paradise
Scenic private jeep drive to the Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve, crossing rolling hills, cultivated valleys and traditional villages as the landscape transitions into the tropical Terai plains. Arrival in late afternoon at this internationally important Ramsar wetland. Sunset photography session on the riverbanks as birds return to roost.
Day 05 : Transfer to Koshi Tappu — Gateway to the Wetlands Paradise
Scenic private jeep drive to the Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve, crossing rolling hills, cultivated valleys and traditional villages as the landscape transitions into the tropical Terai plains. Arrival in late afternoon at this internationally important Ramsar wetland. Sunset photography session on the riverbanks as birds return to roost.
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