Birding Around Kathnmandu Valley

Depart Kathmandu early in the morning (around 4:30–5:00 AM) for a scenic drive to the top of Phulchoki Hill, Nepal's premier birdwatching destination. Spend the day exploring the oak, rhododendron, and mixed broadleaf forests, walking slowly along quiet forest trails while listening for bird calls and searching the canopy. A packed lunch will be enjoyed in the heart of the forest, allowing more time to explore this exceptional birding hotspot. Possible sightings include Himalayan Cutia, Chestnut-winged Minla, Grey Bush Chat, and the elusive Chestnut-crowned Laughingthrush, along with many other Himalayan forest birds. Return to Kathmandu in the late afternoon.

After breakfast, drive to Mudkhu, the main entrance to Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park. Begin a leisurely walk through subtropical and temperate forests, following peaceful trails rich in birdlife. This diverse habitat supports a wide variety of resident and migratory species. Throughout the day, keep an eye out for Common Green Magpie, White-crested Laughingthrush, Chestnut-headed Tesia, and Emerald Dove, while enjoying the park's beautiful forest scenery. Return to Kathmandu in the evening.

Short rest at a scenic viewpoint. Continue into the upper forest zone targeting species like Satyr Tragopan, Blue-naped Pitta, and various flycatchers. Picnic lunch in the forest.

This morning, drive to Gurje, another excellent birding location within Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park. Explore forest trails and ridgelines that offer outstanding opportunities to observe both forest and raptor species. Possible sightings include Golden-throated Barbet, Streaked Laughingthrush, Nepal's endemic Spiny Babbler, Black Eagle, and Wedge-tailed Green Pigeon. After a rewarding day of birdwatching and nature photography, return to Kathmandu in the late afternoon, concluding your Kathmandu Valley birding experience.