Highlights

Phulchowki Hill

  • Altitude: 2,762 meters, the highest point around Kathmandu.
  • Species: Over 300 bird species, including the Spiny Babbler (Nepal's endemic bird), Rufous-bellied Niltava, Blue-fronted Redstart, and Mountain Hawk-Eagle.
  • Best Time: November to April.
  • Features: Subtropical and temperate forests, vibrant wildflowers, and breathtaking views of the valley.

Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park

  • Species: Satyr Tragopan, Kalij Pheasant, and Himalayan Cutia among others.
  • Best Time: October to March.
  • Features: Dense forests and tranquil surroundings, offering birding trails with opportunities to spot both migratory and resident species.

Nagarjun Forest (Jamacho)

  • Species: Red-billed Blue Magpie, White-crested Laughingthrush, and Black-winged Cuckooshrike.
  • Best Time: Morning hours, especially in spring and autumn.
  • Features: A tranquil forest trail leading to a panoramic viewpoint.

Chobhar Gorge Bagmati River

  • Species: Kingfishers, wagtails, and other waterbirds.
  • Best Time: November to February.
  • Features: Unique geological formations alongside a mix of bird species.

 

About bird watching around kathmandu valley

Explore the ample world of bird watching in Kathmandu Valley, a place gradually earning a reputation as a paradise for bird watchers. Whether one is an avid bird watcher or a practising ornithologist, the highlands of Nepal are where one comes to get a glimpse of rare and endangered species like the Impeyan Pheasant (the national bird of the country), and Spiny Babbler, a bird species found only in Nepal. The topographical diversity of Nepal has led be a habitat for more than 887 species of Birds (nearly 10% of the world’s total number of birds) making it a sought-after destination for birding.

Within the Valley alone a recorded 500 species of birds can be spotted. Destinations such as Godavari, Nagarjun Phulchowki, Bagmati, and Manohara River are the most popular spots for bird-watching. Surrounded by verdant hills, the varied ecology and moderate climatic conditions of Kathmandu Valley serve as a suitable nesting site for vast species of birds. 

The Himalayan nation is not only a special destination for trekking and adventure tourism but also has great potential for bird-watching tourism which includes the great scenery of mountain views, wildlife exploration, interaction with local communities, and exploring their culture and tradition. 

Bird Watching Sites in Kathmandu Valley 

Phulchoki Hill and Godavari forest  

You can begin your trip from among the most preferred bird-watching spots- Phulchoki Hill, the highest peak in the Valley only 20 km southeast of Kathmandu. With some 288 species recorded to date, you can sight woodpeckers, babblers, tits, warblers, eagles, minivets, and many migrant birds. Lying at the foot of Phulchowki Hill rests Godavari Botanical Garden which alone hosts over 100 species of birds including spotted forktail, Tibetan siskin, and lesser racket-tailed drongo. The open fields of wetlands make up a diverse habitat for many birds making it one of the best places for bird watching in Kathmandu Valley.

The Shivapuri Watershed and Wildlife Reserve

Another exciting sight for bird watching tour is a hike to Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park, which lies 11 km north of Kathmandu along with Nagarjun Royal Forest or Rani Ban (located just 5km from Balaju’s access to Kakani). This hill is a renowned sight for bird enthusiasts featuring Red-billed blue magpie, Bonelli’s Eagle, Kalij pheasant, Himalayan bulbul, and a good population of Spiny Babbler and Hoary-throated Barwing, and many more.

The Valley Wetlands 

The wetlands of the valley are the Bagmati River and Manohara River which flows into the valley from Shivapuri Hill through the gorge of Chobar. The open fields and wetlands are ideal for many bird species. Taudaha Lake is the most prominent wetland bird-watching sight in the Kathmandu Valley which is on the like to Dakshinkali. The rich ecosystem here is a transitory place for migratory birds where a group of water birds gets here during winter. Some of the regular visitors here are Gadwall, Mallard, Common Teal, Eurasian wigeon, Northern shoveler, and Eurasian coot.

Itinerary

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Day 1: Phulchowki Hill and Godawari full day

Depart from the hotel at 5:30 AM with a packed breakfast and drive to Phulchowki Hill. Begin birdwatching upon arrival, followed by a drive back to Godawari for lunch featuring Nepali cuisine. After a 30-minute rest, continue birdwatching in the Godawari forest. Return to the hotel in the evening.

    The day will begin with a 5:30 AM departure from the hotel, driving with a packed breakfast to Godawari. Birdwatching will follow until around 11 am to 12, after which you'll drive back to Kathmandu.

      Useful Information

      Phulchowki Hill alpine species

      Phulchowki, at an altitude of 2,760 meters, offers diverse habitats ranging from subtropical forests to temperate zones, making it a haven for various bird species.

      1. Himalayan Cutia (Cutia nipalensis)
        Known for its colourful plumage, often seen in mixed-species flocks.
      2. Chestnut-crowned Laughingthrush (Trochalopteron erythrocephalum)
        A social and vocal species commonly found in undergrowth.
      3. White-crested Laughingthrush (Garrulax leucolophus)
        Recognizable by its bold white crest and loud calls.
      4. Golden Bush-Robin (Tarsiger chrysaeus)
        A small, brightly coloured robin found at higher altitudes.
      5. Wallcreeper (Tichodroma muraria)
        This fascinating bird clings to vertical rock faces with its crimson wings.
      6. Mountain Hawk-Eagle (Nisaetus nipalensis)
        A majestic raptor is often spotted soaring over the forest canopy.
      7. Rufous-bellied Niltava (Niltava sundara)
        A vivid orange-bellied flycatcher frequenting forest edges.
      8. Fire-tailed Sunbird (Aethopyga ignicauda)
        A dazzling sunbird, especially the males with their fiery red tails.
      9. Spotted Forktail (Enicurus maculatus)
        Found near streams, this species is known for its striking black-and-white plumage.
      10. Yellow-browed Tit (Sylviparus modestus)
        A tiny, active bird is often seen flitting through the treetops.

       

      Godavari (Botanical Garden and Surroundings) forest species

      Godavari, located at the base of Phulchowki, is rich in subtropical vegetation and is home to unique bird species.

      1. Great Barbet (Psilopogon virens)
        The largest barbet with vibrant green plumage and a characteristic call.
      2. Maroon Oriole (Oriolus traillii)
        A striking bird with deep maroon and black colouration.
      3. Grey-headed Woodpecker (Picus canus)
        A woodpecker with subtle grey-green tones, often heard before seen.
      4. Red-billed Blue Magpie (Urocissa erythroryncha)
        A long-tailed, colourful corvid common in the region.
      5. Small Niltava (Niltava macgrigoriae)
        A delightful, small flycatcher with blue and orange hues.
      6. Asian Barred Owlet (Glaucidium cuculoides)
        A small owl, active during the day, with distinctive barred patterns.
      7. Black-throated Sunbird (Aethopyga saturate)
        Another striking sunbird is found feeding on nectar in the garden.
      8. Blyth's Leaf Warbler (Phylloscopus reguloides)
        A small, active warbler often heard in dense foliage.
      9. Chestnut-crowned Warbler (Seicercus castaniceps)
        Identified by its chestnut crown and melodic song.
      10. Bar-throated Minla (Actinodura strigula)
        A small bird with a yellowish-green body and a streaked throat.

       

      Other Frequently Seen Species

      • Green-tailed Sunbird (Aethopyga nipalensis)
      • Red-billed Blue Magpie (Urocissa flavirostris)
      • Scaly Thrush (Zoothera dauma)
      • Pygmy Cupwing (Pnoepyga pusilla)
      • Verditer Flycatcher (Eumyias thalassinus)

       

      Tips for Birdwatching in Phulchowki and Godavari

      • Visit early in the morning for maximum activity.
      • Carry binoculars (8x42 or 10x42 is ideal) and a field guide.
      • Stay silent and avoid sudden movements to avoid startling birds.