Bird Watching Tour

birds
Customize Trip
kathmandu,sunsari,pokhara,chitwan
At a Glance
Duration10 Days
Trip GradeEasy
CountryNepal
Maximum Altitude1600 mt
Group Size1-50
Startskathmandu
Endskathmandu
Travel Styleland
Best TimeMarch,April,May,September, October, November

birds.jpeg

Highlights

  • A fantastic birdwatching tour program in Nepal to discover different species of birds 
  • Hike to Shivapuri National Park through lush forests
  • Explore the Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve and get to see birds like Swamp Francolin, Ruddy Shelduck, Indian Skimmer, Pallas's Fish Eagle, etc
  • Go on jeep safari, canoe ride, and deep jungle walk in Chitwan National Park
  • Witness one-horn rhinos, deer, wild boar, elephants, and many birds
  • Visit Indigenous villages and get to see the lifestyle and culture of the villagers
  • Enjoy the tranquility of Pokhara and the mountain views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, and Fishtail
  • Explore tourist sites like Davis Falls, International Mountain Museum, Gupteshwor Cave, Phewa Lake, etc, in Pokhara

bird

Overview

Nepal is a paradise for birds. Shadowed by other adventure activities, bird watching remains exclusive and experienced only by a handful of foreigners. Given the unique geography, hundreds of species of birds are found in several national parks and wildlife reserves around the county.

Our 10 days bird watching tour package includes excursions to two national parks and a wildlife reserve. During the tour, you will enjoy the sheer wilderness of this beautiful country and discover a huge range of flora and fauna. Not only that, you also travel to Pokhara. It is the gateway to the Annapurna region.

The tour is easy, and all the destinations are easily accessible via comfortable drive. Even though bird watching is the main highlight of this tour, it is not limited to that. You will also have the chance to explore historical sites, indigenous villages, and Nepali culture.

Pokhara allows you to relish lovely sunrises and sunsets. You will explore stunning lakes, caves, and waterfalls. Likewise, the city also offers views of western Himalayan mountains like Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Fishtail, etc. This bird watching tour is a perfect holiday for families, couples, students, and senior citizens in Nepal.

The three national park and conservation area excursions 

Shivapuri National Park

Shivapuri National Park is home to more than 300 species of birds. It is the closest national park to Kathmandu and is easily accessible. The ecosystem in this park ranges from subtropical to temperate, so you can imagine the range of birds here.

Some of the birds you may see in this national park are Spiny Babblers, Kalij Pheasant, Himalayan Monal, Yellow-billed Blue Magpies, Laughingthrushes, and Woodpeckers.

Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve

The Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve is a paradise for bird lovers. Located in the eastern Terai region (the plains of Nepal), the reserve is a wetland ecosystem. It is home to more than 500 species of birds, including both resident and migratory birds.

Some of the birds you can see here are the Sarus Crane, Bengal Florican, Greater Adjutant Stork, Swamp Francolin, Bar-headed Goose, Ruddy Shelduck, and Northern Pintail.

Chitwan National Park 

Chitwan National Park is located in the southern Terai region. It is one of the most visited national parks in Nepal for pure wilderness adventures, such as jungle safaris. The park is famous for one-horn rhinos and elephants, but you can also see many birds here.

More than 500 species of birds are found in the Chitwan National Park. Some of them are the Asian Paradise Flycatcher, Great Hornbill, Lesser Adjutant Stork, Red Junglefowl, Pied Kingfisher, Bengal Florican, etc

Bird watching tour itinerary

The bird watching tour in Nepal starts from Kathmandu, the capital of the country. You will go on a day hike to Shivapuri National Park. The hiking trail is well-established and goes through lush forests. It will be 5 hours of ascending and descending. Enjoy nature and spot some birds during the hike.

From here, the tour continues to the Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve, home to over 500 species of birds. The reserve's unique ecosystem houses many migratory, rare, and endangered birds. You will explore the nearby villages, go on a jungle safari, and go boating. The next part of the tour takes you to the famous Chitwan National Park.

From Koshi Tappu to Chitwan, you will enjoy a long but scenic ride. In Chitwan, go on the Tharu village tour and do many activities in the Chitwan National Park. Choose between elephant safari and jeep safari. During the safari, you will see wildlife like one-horn rhinos, deer, wild boar, elephants, peacocks, and many other birds.

Some lucky travelers also get to spot the royal Bengal tiger. Likewise, you will go on a deep jungle walk to see birds. Other activities like water rappelling, canoeing, and bathing with elephants are also famous here. The final part of the bird watching tour 10 days takes you to Pokhara. It is the second biggest city in Nepal.

In Pokhara, you will get close to mountains and explore lakes, caves, and waterfalls. Witness stunning views of Mt. Fishtail, Mt. Annapurna, and Mt. Dhaulagiri from Sarangkot. Enjoy the tranquility of Phewa Lake and the bustle of Lakeside Market. Explore tourist sites like Davis Falls, the International Mountain Museum, Gupteshwor Mahadev Cave, World Peace Pagoda, etc. 

Why should you choose this bird-watching tour package?

We, Regal Nepal Treks and Travel, offer the best cost and service in the market for any trip to Nepal. You will travel with a professional yet friendly and reliable guide. Our bird watching tour itinerary is well-designed to provide you with the best experience. You can also customize the package if you want.

Whether you are traveling solo or with your loved ones, we will make sure you have the best time of your life during the bird watching tour in Nepal with us. If you have any questions regarding the tour, feel free to contact us.

bird

Accommodation and meals during the tour

Accommodation during the bird watching tour in Nepal is in tourist-standard hotels or three-star hotels in all cities. Both single and twin shared rooms are available. The washrooms are private everywhere, and you will get all modern amenities like a hot shower, TV, WiFi, AC, etc. You can also upgrade the accommodation to five-star hotels or luxury resorts as per your wish and budget.

Our bird watching tour package only includes breakfasts in the hotels where you will spend the night. You can buy lunch and dinner as you wish. All the cities you will travel to during this tour offer fantastic dining experiences. You can choose the cuisine you want to have and dine accordingly. We highly recommend you try local Nepali food.

Bird watching tour cost 2024/2025

The bird watching tour cost starts at USD 1,500 per person. The package includes your accommodation and transportation as per the itinerary. Likewise, it also covers permits to enter the national parks, the expense of your guide, and the company's service charge.

Make sure to budget the rest of the expenses, such as international flight tickets, food, and drinks, souvenirs, gear and clothes, tips, etc.

bird

 

Itinerary
Outline Itinerary
Day 01
Arrival in Kathmandu and transfer to the hotel
Day 02
Hike to Shivapuri National Park and return to your hotel for the night stay
Day 03
Flight from Kathmandu to Biratnagar and drive to Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve
Day 04
Explore Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve
Day 05
Drive to Chitwan National Park
Day 06
Chitwan National Park excursion
Day 07
Drive from Chitwan to Pokhara
Day 08
Sunrise at Sarangkot, then visit Bindabasini Temple and enjoy the remaining day in Pokhara
Day 09
Drive back to Kathmandu
Day 10
Final departure from Kathmandu
Tour Plan
Day 01

Altitude: 1,400 m/4,593 ft
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals: Welcome dinner

Our team will ensure a smooth transition from the airport to your hotel, allowing you to relax and unwind. A welcome dinner in the evening will mark the beginning of your adventure.
 

Day 02

Duration: 6-7 hours
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals: Breakfast only

Today, you will hike in the Shivapuri National Park. The trailhead is easily accessible within a short drive from Thamel. The hiking route is well-established. It is an uphill walk through lush forests. The Shivapuri National Park is home to many flora and fauna.

With over 300 bird species, including the rare Spiny Babbler and the majestic Himalayan Monal, the Shivapuri National Park is a birdwatcher's paradise. Enjoy the serene hike and the diverse birdlife. After the hike, you'll return to your hotel.
 

Day 03

Flight duration: 45 minutes flight & 1.5 hours drive
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals: Breakfast only

Take a morning flight to Biratnagar. It will be a short and scenic flight. From Biratnagar, you will drive to Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve. Check-in at your hotel and get some rest. Later in the day, you will visit a local village with your guide and get acquainted with the locals and their customs. Explore and enjoy time with locals. Return to your hotel to spend the night.
 

Day 04

Accommodation: Hotel
Meals: Breakfast only

You have a full day of activities ahead of you. Start the day with a delicious breakfast and go on a boating or four-wheeler ride. You will see birds, waders, wild water buffalo, marsh crocodiles, and gangetic dolphins. Visit Pink Tower and later walk inside the forests to watch birds.

Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve is a bird's paradise in Nepal. More than 500 species of birds are recorded here, including rare and endangered. Some of the birds you will see here are Swamp Francolin, Ruddy Shelduck, Indian Skimmer, Pallas's Fish Eagle, Black-necked Stork, Garganey, Northern Shoveler, etc.
 

Day 05

Duration: 8 to 9 hours
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals: Breakfast only

On this day, you will drive to Chitwa, another major national park and bird habitat in Nepal. It will be a long drive from Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve to Chitwan, so you will leave your hotel early in the morning. The road is well-made. Therefore, the ride will be smooth and comfortable. You will see beautiful scenery during the drive.

Upon reaching Chitwan, check in at your hotel. As per your arrival time, you may or may not have time to explore. If you reach Chitwan on time, you will visit the indigenous Tharu village in the evening. See their stick dance, traditional attire, cultural songs, etc. Return to the hotel to spend the night.
 

Day 06

Duration: 5-6 hours
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals: Breakfast only

Today, you will spend the day in the Chitwan National Park doing many fun activities like jeep safari, canoe rides, deep jungle walks, etc. During the safari, you may see wildlife like one-horn rhinos, elephants, wild boar, deer, tigers, etc. Likewise, you can visit the elephant breeding center and bathe with the elephant if you like.

There are many birds, butterflies, and aquatic animals in the national park. You may get to see birds like the Asian Paradise Flycatcher, Red Junglefowl, Lesser Adjutant Stork, Great Hornbill, Bengal Florican, Peafowl, and many others.
 

Day 07

Duration: 5-6 hours
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals: Breakfast only

From Chitwan, you will continue the tour to Pokhara. The ride will be comfortable and scenic. On the way, you will see rolling, lush hills, rivers, terraced fields, and snow-capped mountains. In Pokhara, spend the evening exploring the Lakeside Market and enjoying the serenity of Phewa Lake. You can also boat on it. The views of Mt. Fishtail and Mt. Annapurna are fantastic.
 

Day 08

Duration: 5-6 hours
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals: Breakfast only

Begin the day with another beautiful sunrise from Sarangkot. You will drive to Sarangkot early in the morning. This viewpoint offers stunning mountain views of Annapurna, Machhapuchhare, Dhaulagiri, and Lamjung Himal. You can also enjoy a superb aerial view of Pokhara from here. 

From here, you will drive to Bindabasini temple. It is one of the very important temples for the locals. Explore the temple and then spend the rest of the day visiting other tourist sites in Pokhara, like World Peace Pagoda, Davis Fall, Gupteshwor Cave, etc. 

*Note: Sarangkot is famous for paragliding. If you want to join a guided paragliding, let us know. The cost of paragliding is quite affordable.
 

Day 09

Duration: 6 hours
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals: Breakfast and farewell dinner

You will travel back to Kathmandu on this day. Leave Pokhara early in the morning and follow a well-made highway along rolling hills to Kathmandu. On the way, you will enjoy lovely views of rivers, waterfalls, and terraced fields. It will be an excellent ride. Today is your last day in Kathmandu, so explore local markets in the evening and buy souvenirs. We will meet for a farewell dinner in the late evening.
 

Day 10

Meals: Breakfast only

Our team will drop you at the Tribhuvan International Airport according to your flight time. They will also pick you up from your hotel and help you with your luggage. Be ready to leave the hotel on time.
 

Cost Details
Included

- transportation by private vehicle

- Bird Watching Guide

- Accommodation 

- Permits and Fee

- office service charge 

Excluded

- Hotel Accommodation in Katmandu 

- International flight tickets and nepal visha fee 

- All kinds of drink 

- Personal expenses and travel insurance 

- Tips for guide

Additional Info

Bird watching tour packing list

Follow the below packing list to pack for bird watching tour:

  • Passport, Visa, copies of important documents, Local currency (Nepalese Rupee), and Credit/debit cards
  • Travel insurance (optional)
  • Lightweight, moisture-wicking shirts
  • Long-sleeved shirts for sun and insect protection
  • Lightweight, quick-dry pants
  • Warm layers (fleece or down jacket) for cooler mornings and evenings
  • Waterproof and windproof jacket
  • Comfortable hiking socks
  • Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots
  • Hat or cap for sun protection
  • Binoculars
  • Bird field guide specific to Nepal
  • Camera with telephoto lens
  • Extra memory cards and batteries
  • Tripod or monopod (optional)
  • Reusable water bottle
  • Snacks and energy bars
  • Daypack for daily excursions
  • Sunglasses with UV protection
  • Sunscreen with high SPF and Lip balm with SPF
  • Insect repellent
  • Personal first aid kit (band-aids, antiseptic wipes, blister treatment, etc.)
  • Prescription medications (if any)
  • Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, etc.)
  • Wet wipes and hand sanitizer
  • Travel pillow, eye mask, and Earplugs
  • Portable charger for electronic devices, Plug adapter for Nepal
  • Ziplock bags for keeping gear dry
  • Lightweight, collapsible walking stick (optional)
     
FAQs

You can go on a birdwatching tour in Nepal throughout the year. Different birds are seen in different seasons. Many migratory birds travel in and out of the country in different seasons. Whatever time you choose to do a birdwatching tour, you will not be disappointed.

We use private four-wheelers and tourist standard buses to travel between different locations during the tour. Likewise, to travel from Kathmandu to Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve, we will take a short flight to Biratnagar and drive there.

You should wear comfortable, breathable clothes and light shoes during the tour. Similarly, carry gear like a daypack, reusable water bottle, binoculars, sunglasses, sun hat, and other essentials while visiting the national parks.

Yes, a guide will accompany you throughout the tour. The guide will speak English, or we will try to accommodate your comfortable language. Likewise, he or she will be knowledgeable about the national parks, vegetation, and wildlife. In all national parks, a special forest ranger will also accompany you.

During the tour, you will travel to different cities in Nepal. The accommodation will be in tourist-standard hotels. You can choose between twin shared or single rooms. All the modern amenities, such as TV, AC, WiFi, private washroom, etc, will be available in the room.

Our birdwatching tour package only includes breakfasts. You can have lunch and dinner as per your wish and budget. Numerous food options are available everywhere you go on this tour.

The birdwatching tour in Nepal is not physically demanding. It is an easy tour with light walks across national parks. You will also go on a day hike, which requires three hours of ascending and two hours of descending. Any normal person with good health can do this tour.

To travel from Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve from Kathmandu, first, you have to take a 45-minute flight to Biratnagar. From here, you will drive one and a half hours to reach the reserve.

Yes, you can purchase bird watching equipment and souvenirs throughout the tour. Carry Nepali cash on you because small, local vendors usually do not accept payment through card.

Do not litter the national parks during the tour, do not disturb the vegetation and wildlife, stay on the human trails, be patient and wait for wildlife and birds to show, and do not make noise.

Our tour guides are trained to provide first aid in case of a medical emergency during the tour. We will assess the situation and provide your medical care accordingly.

Yes, you will visit local villages in Chitwan and Koshi Tappu. During the village tour, you will meet with indigenous groups and see their culture and lifestyle. If you want to contribute to a conservation program or learn more about it, you can ask your guide during the tour.

Yes, you can photograph birds and wildlife during the tour. Your guide will inform you ahead of time if photography is prohibited in any place.