Nature · Wildlife · Birding
Birding in Bhutan
736 Species
736Recorded bird species
129Mammal species
750Butterfly species
11,248Total known species
Bhutan's constitution mandates that at least 60% of the country must remain under forest cover — a legal commitment to nature found nowhere else on earth. The National Biodiversity Centre of Bhutan has recorded 736 bird species, 129 mammals, 750 butterflies, and over 11,248 total known species in this small Himalayan kingdom.
The country spans tropical foothills in the south to alpine meadows above 4,500m — compressing habitats that elsewhere would require thousands of kilometres of travel into a single landscape. This extraordinary altitudinal range, combined with intact forest, makes Bhutan one of Asia's most rewarding birding destinations.
No mass tourism pressure on forests — birds behave naturally and are surprisingly approachable.
Subtropical to alpine in one trip — terai species in the morning, high-altitude pheasants in the afternoon.
White-bellied Heron, Black-necked Crane, and Bengal Florican are all reliably seen in the right season.
Species data sourced from the National Biodiversity Centre of Bhutan (NBC)
Timed for the winter arrival of the Black-necked Crane to Phobjikha Valley — one of Asia's most moving wildlife spectacles. Includes dawn and dusk crane viewing, valley walks, and visits to Gangtey Monastery.
Covers the western birding circuit — Paro valley, Chelela Pass (3,988m), Haa valley, and Phobjikha. A superb introduction to Bhutan's birding with altitudinal range from lowland forest to alpine meadows.
The definitive Bhutan birding itinerary — west to east, covering every major habitat zone. Targets all of Bhutan's key specialties and globally threatened species in a single ambitious crossing of the kingdom.
Focused on the eastern districts — Trashiyangtse, Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary, and Trashigang — where Bhutan's rarest species concentrate. Requires a Sakteng special permit which we arrange.
A printable checklist of 770+ species recorded in Bhutan — organised by family, with habitat notes and seasonal status. Perfect for your trip preparation and field use.
Tell us your target species and travel window — we'll design the perfect birding itinerary for you.
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