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Bird Watching and Wildlife Photography in Nepal

Nepal, nestled in the lap of the Himalayas, boasts a remarkable diversity of ecosystems, from the subtropical lowlands of the Terai to the towering peaks of the Himalayan range. This geographical diversity creates a multitude of habitats, making Nepal an ideal destination for bird watching and wildlife photography. Several destinations stand out for enthusiasts seeking to explore this captivating country’s rich tapestry of biodiversity.

Bird watching and wildlife photography in Nepal can be a rewarding experience due to the country’s rich biodiversity and stunning natural landscapes.

Best season for bird watching and wildlife photography in Nepal

Nepal Photography expedition

The best season for bird watching in Nepal is during the winter months, from November to February. This period attracts a diverse array of migratory birds escaping colder climates. The clear skies and pleasant weather make for optimal birding conditions, allowing enthusiasts to observe breeding and courtship displays. The accessibility of birding sites is enhanced during this tourist peak season, and the cooler temperatures are conducive to both bird activity and comfortable exploration.

Best places in Nepal for bird watching and wildlife photography

Nepal offers several exceptional places for bird watching and wildlife photography, each presenting a unique blend of biodiversity and picturesque landscapes. Some of the most popular destinations are:

  • Chitwan National Park
  • Bardia National Park
  • Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve
  • Annapurna Conservation Area
  • Sagarmatha National Park
  • Langtang National Park
  • Rara National Park
  • Phulchoki Hill

Overview

Bird watching and wildlife photography in Nepal weave a captivating narrative through the country’s diverse landscapes, from the lush lowlands of the Terai to the rugged peaks of the Himalayas. In destinations like Chitwan and Bardia National Parks, bird watchers are treated to the vibrant spectacle of species like the Bengal Florican, Great Hornbill, and Sarus Crane. Wildlife photographers, meanwhile, can frame iconic shots of one-horned rhinoceroses, Asiatic elephants, and elusive Bengal tigers in their natural habitats. The visit to Badhaiya Lake is an exclusive way to look after the birds and animals that lie in Bardiya.

Nepal’s cultural richness, intertwined with its natural beauty, enhances the experience, providing photographers with the chance to document the harmonious coexistence of traditional lifestyles and untamed wilderness. Engaging local guides and adhering to responsible tourism practices contribute to the preservation of these ecosystems, ensuring that each photograph becomes a testament to the delicate balance between humans and the diverse wonders of Nepal’s wildlife.

Highlights

  • Over 900 species, including Bengal Florican and Great Hornbill.
  • Winter months attract diverse migratory waterfowl and songbirds.
  • Photograph rhinos, tigers, and elephants in Chitwan and Bardia.
  • Capture cultural coexistence with untamed wilderness in diverse settings.
  • Explore lush landscapes for varied wildlife photography.
  • Visit Lumbini, the ultimate guide to peace.
  • Document gharials and mugger crocodiles along waterways.

Itinerary

Day 1:
Arrival in Kathmandu

Welcome to Nepal, one of our representative from Himalayan 360 will be there at the airport to pick you and escort to the hotel. On the way, you will get a small briefing about the bird watching and wildlife photography tour. Overnight.

Day 2:
Fly to Biratnagar

Today, we will have an early breakfast and proceed to fly to Biratnagar, Morang from where we will be heading towards our first bird watching activity of the trip i.e. Barju lake. Barju Taal (lake), sometimes called Chimdi Taal, is comprised of just over 250 acres of wetlands but hosts more than 500 bird species, and at peak festival times hosts up to 150,000 picnickers. Many wildlife photographers and researches visit this lake in order to explore more about rare and unidentified birds’ species in the region.

Day 3:
Visit Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve

On this day, you will be visiting Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve, a famous destination for bird watching in Nepal. Some notable species you can encounter in the reserve are: Swamp Francolin, White-rumped Vulture, Black-necked Stork, Indian Skimmer, Great Thick-knee and many more.

Along with that Koshi Tappu wildlife Reserve also consists of various animals like the Asian elephant, spotted deer, hog deer, wild boar, smooth-coated otter and golden jackal. You will get a lot of photogenic chances to capture these beautiful creatures. Overnight.

Day 4:
Rafting in Koshi river

Today, we will have an early morning breakfast and head on to Koshi river for rafting. Rafting in Koshi river is one of the best ways to enjoy the beauty of the Koshi region as well as discover the rare bird species. You will also get a description about the wetlands and birds that reside along the Koshi River side. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 5:
Drive to Chitwan

Today, we will pack our bags and drive towards Chitwan early in the morning. After almost 9 hours of drive, you will reach Chitwan. The most famous Tharu culture dance is the pride of Chitwan, so do not miss out on that! Rest and prepare for the next day.

Day 6:
Wildlife photography in Chitwan National Park

Today we will start our day by having a hearty breakfast. After that we will be looking after some of the famous birds in the region like Asian openbill, Lesser adjutant, Grey-headed fish eagle, Red-vented bulbul, Jungle myna and Lineated barbet. Along with that, we will take a canoe ride in Rapti river and sopt some beautiful birds and animals like crocodile, elegator and many more. Then we will have an opportunity to do jungle walk and have sightings of tigers, elephants, rhinos, spotted deers in their natural habitat. You will have perfect opportunity to capture some of the most beautiful birds and animals found in Chitwan National Park area. This place is indeed a heaven for photographers. Overnight.

Day 7:
Drive to Lumbini

We will take an early morning drive to Lumbini, the birth place of Gautam Buddha. It will take about 6-7 hours to reach Lumbini by road. After reaching Lumbini, we will shift to our hotel and rest for the day. Overnight.

Day 8:
Visit Lumbini

We explore sacred places in Lumbini today. Our exploration of the area will take us to visit the Sacred Garden, Mayadevi temple, Pushkarini (the sacred Pond), World Peace stupa, monastic zone, and museum. The full day exploration of Lumbini will bring us to a closer understanding of life of Buddha. Overnight.

Day 9:
Drive to Bardiya National Park

Today, we will drive towards Bardiya National Park; yet another paradise for bird watchers and wildlife photographers. It will almost take us 6 hours to reach Bardiya. Upon arrival at Bardiya, we will have lunch during which the naturalist will brief you on the day’s activity. In the afternoon you will visit the crocodile breeding center and the Tharu village. Overnight.

Day 10:
Jungle activities

Today after breakfast we walk into the forest in search of Bengal tiger. The half-day walk in the forest provides an opportunity to encounter many wild animals including the Bengal tiger as Bardia is one of the best places for tiger spotting. Overnight.

Day 11:
Bird watching and Jungle activities

Today we penetrate deeper into Bardia National Park where we will travel to places rarely visited by humans. These are pristine areas where we are bound to see all kinds of birds. Many shy varieties can be found in these places. We move quietly so we don’t scare the birds. Keep your camera ready for pictures of these colorful creatures. From waterfowl to eagles to warblers and songbirds, they can be found here in Bardia National Park. Of course, you may even see one of those elusive Royal Bengal Tigers or Indian One-Horned Rhinos. But our purpose is the birds, and you will see hundreds of birds each day of our experience.

We will also visit Badhaiya Taal (lake) which is a famous bird watching spot in Bardiya. The well known Lake in mid-western Nepal covers an area of 105 hectors. Post monsoon makes this Lake more beautiful as it is surrounded by the rice field. An estimated number of birds in this Lake is 1,800 of 38 species. Enjoy a Tharu cultural show in the evening. Overnight.

Day 12:
Drive to Nepalgunj and fly to Kathmandu

It is almost the end of our trip. We will drive towards Nepalgunj for almost two hours and then catch a flight for Kathmandu. After an hour or 45 minutes, you will reach Kathmandu. Rest or explore the Thamel area and buy some souvenirs. Overnight.

Day 13:
Departure

Today, you will depart from Kathmandu. One of our representative from Himalayan 360 will be there to drop you at the airport three hours prior to your flight. We hope you had a great time here. Remember us for your next trip to Nepal.

COST

Cost Includes

FAQs

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How many species of birds are found in Nepal?

The avifauna of Nepal includes a total of 915 species of birds recorded.

Which place is known as Paradise of birds in Nepal?

Ramsar is the only wetland of international importance in Nepal. It is also known as paradise for birds, as it accommodates an amazing variety of bird including wetland migratory birds that varies according to the season.

Which camera is best for bird photography for beginners?

Canon EOS R10 is considered to be the best beginner camera for bird photography.

Which bird is only found in Nepal?

The Spiny Babbler is a bird that is only found in Nepal.

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Bird Watching and Wildlife Photography in Nepal