Bhutans Avian Odyssey A Professional Birdwatching Expedition

Today, head to Phobjikha Valley, a significant migratory site for the black-necked crane and many other bird species.

• Gangtey Monastery: Visit this 17th-century monastery with views over the valley, where you can spot woodpeckers and other high-altitude species.
• Birdwatching in Phobjikha: Walk through the valley's wetlands and fields, keeping an eye out for grey-headed lapwings, tibetan snipe, and pheasants. The valley is also known for various species of migratory ducks, geese, and swans.
  Overnight in Phobjikha.

Spend a full day birdwatching in Phobjikha with your expert guide.

• Early morning and late afternoon are the best times for spotting birds, as many species are active during these cooler hours.
• Spot black-necked cranes in the wetlands, and look for red-wattled lapwings and wild ducks on the river.
• Visit Dhangka Temple, another excellent birdwatching point, where you can see raptors such as eagles and kites flying overhead.
  Overnight in Phobjikha.

Drive to Thrumshing La National Park, known for its rich birdlife and diverse ecosystems.

• The park offers habitats ranging from subtropical forests to alpine meadows, making it an excellent location for a variety of species.
• Expect to spot the Himalayan monal, Satyr tragopan, golden eagles, and snow partridges.
• Take a short trek in the park, stopping to look for rhododendron pheasants and barred cuckoo-doves in the dense forests.
  Overnight near Thrumshing La.

Drive to Zhemgang, one of Bhutan’s richest birding locations.

• This birding hotspot is known for rare species such as the white-bellied heron, and also has rich populations of hornbills, swamp francolins, and pheasants.
• Birdwatch along the Manas River, looking for kingfishers, herons, and waterfowl.
• The surrounding forests also provide opportunities to spot red pandas, wild boars, and various woodpeckers.
  Overnight in Zhemgang.

Today, explore Royal Manas National Park, home to a vast array of bird species.

• Look out for Indian hornbills, lesser adjutant storks, pheasants, and water birds such as cormorants, egrets, and herons.
• Spend time on guided nature walks through the subtropical forests, watching for black vultures, buzzards, and various species of raptors.
• Take a boat ride along the Manas River, an excellent way to observe water birds in their natural habitat.
  Overnight in Zhemgang.

Drive through picturesque landscapes to Punakha, famous for its riverine birdlife and scenic beauty.

• En route, stop in Wangdue Phodrang, another birdwatching location with a variety of wetland species like kingfishers, terns, and herons.
• Upon arrival in Punakha, enjoy birdwatching along the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers, which are home to cormorants, swans, and waterfowl.
• Visit the Punakha Dzong, where you can spot birds such as spotted doves, kestrels, and eagles circling overhead.
  Overnight in Punakha.

Spend a full day exploring Punakha’s wetlands and riverbanks.

• Spot species such as kingfishers, great cormorants, and white-bellied wagtails.
• Take a boat ride along the rivers, looking for kingfishers, swans, and various migratory waterfowl.
• Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten offers an elevated viewpoint where you may spot mountain species such as tits, sparrows, and woodpeckers.
  Overnight in Punakha.

Drive to the serene and remote Haa Valley, known for its pristine beauty and birdwatching opportunities.

• Himalayan griffons and golden eagles are frequently spotted in the area.
• Take a birdwatching trek through the valley’s dense forests and wetlands, where you may find snow partridges and Tibetan snowcock.
• Visit Neyphug Monastery, a tranquil location for both spiritual reflection and birdwatching.
  Overnight in Haa.

Spend the entire day birdwatching in the Haa Valley, an untouched natural haven.

• The valley is home to Tibetan snowcock, Himalayan griffon, and red-billed choughs.
• Explore the dense forests and open meadows, keeping an eye out for woodpeckers, sunbirds, and creepers.
• Enjoy a peaceful afternoon at Neyphug Monastery, surrounded by nature.
  Overnight in Haa.

Drive back to Thimphu, where you’ll visit Motithang Takin Preserve to observe Bhutan’s national animal, the takin.

• You may also spot birds like pheasants, woodpeckers, and cuckoos in the preserve.
• In the evening, enjoy a visit to Thimphu’s local markets for handicrafts or take in local cultural experiences.
  Overnight in Thimphu.

Transfer to Paro for your departure flight. Reflect on your birdwatching adventure, enriched by Bhutan’s stunning biodiversity and natural beauty.