Bird Watching in Kathmandu Valley | Nepal Bird Photography Tour

Bird Watching in Kathmandu Valley!

“Phulchoki Hill, located in the Kathmandu Valley of Nepal, is a popular destination for bird-watching enthusiasts. It is the highest peak in the valley, reaching an elevation of about 2,782 meters (9,127 feet). The hill is covered with dense forests and offers a diverse range of habitats, making it an excellent spot for observing various bird species.”

Bird Watching in Kathmandu Valley is home to a wide variety of bird species, providing excellent opportunities for bird watching. It is a popular activity in the valley, with local birdwatching guides. The diversity of bird life and the stunning valley views make it an ideal destination for bird watching. When visiting Phulchoki Hill for bird watching, it’s important to respect the natural environment, avoid disturbing the birds or their habitats, and follow any regulations or guidelines set by local authorities or conservation organizations. Enjoy your birding adventure in this beautiful location within the Kathmandu Valley!

Nepal Bird watching and bird photography tours on the Godawari forest and Phulchowki Hill Kathmandu is a more important spots for birders. Actually, Nepal has more than 887 species (nearly 10% of the world’s total number of birds). Birding in Kathmandu Valley is also a paradise for birders and Photographers. Rare species of Himalayan Cutia photography tour in Phulchowki Hill is a lovely place for a birder. Kathmandu Valley bird-watching tour presents the best realities of species for the birders. As a result, within the valley, 600 species were reported alone. Kathmandu Valley is surrounded by hills that give a different scheme for birding.

Another beautiful sight is the Shivapuri Wildlife Reserve (11 km north of Kathmandu). Nagarjun Forest calls Jamacho or Rani Ban, it’s just (5 kilometres from Balaju’s access to Kakani). Feature of this place for Red-billed blue magpie, Kalij pheasant, Bonelli’s Eagle, Great Barbet, Himalayan bulbul etc. Another glorious place is Gokarna Forest (7 km upper east of Kathmandu). In this place simply we can see Blue-whistling thrush, Orange-headed thrush, Brown wood owls, white-bellied yuhina, etc.

The wetlands of the valley are the Manohara River and the Bagmati River. That River flows into the valley from Shivapuri Hill through the Chobhar Gorge. However, the wetlands and open fields are rich ecosystems in the valley that are ideal for many bird species. Taudaha Lake is the finest wetland bird-watching sight in the Kathmandu Valley.  It’s on the line to Dakshinkali. It’s the transitory place where high-flying migratory birds break here. A group of water birds get here in winter. However, Mallard, Gadwall, Eurasian wigeon, common teal, Eurasian coot, and Northern shoveler are regular visitors here.

Phulchoki Hill, located in Nepal, is a fantastic destination for bird-watching enthusiasts. Situated about 20 kilometres southeast of Kathmandu, it is the highest hill in the Kathmandu Valley and offers a diverse range of bird species due to its rich biodiversity and varying altitude.

Here are some key points to know about bird watching in Phulchoki Hill:

Bird Species: Phulchoki Hill is home to over 300 species of birds, including both resident and migratory species. The varied habitat, ranging from subtropical to temperate forests, provides a favourable environment for a wide range of avian species.

Best Time to Visit: The best time for bird watching in Phulchoki Hill is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. These periods coincide with the migration of many bird species and offer pleasant weather for outdoor activities.

Popular Birding Sites: The trail to the top of Phulchoki Hill offers multiple birding sites along the way. You can explore different sections of the forest, keeping an eye out for birds in the canopy, undergrowth, and open areas. Some of the popular birding sites include the Godavari Botanical Garden, Phulchoki Temple, and the upper slopes of the hill.

Bird Species to Look For: Some notable bird species found in Phulchoki Hill include the Satyr Tragopan, Rufous-bellied Niltava, Black-throated Parrotbill, Nepal Cutia, Spiny Babbler, and various species of laughingthrushes, warblers, flycatchers, and finches. The area is also known for raptors like Eurasian Sparrowhawk and Steppe Eagle.

Local Guides: It is highly recommended to hire local guides or join bird-watching groups to make the most of your experience in Phulchoki Hill. These guides are familiar with the area and can help you locate and identify the bird species you encounter.

Equipment and Precautions: Carry essential bird-watching equipment such as binoculars, a field guidebook, a camera with a telephoto lens, and appropriate clothing and footwear. Be mindful of the weather conditions and ensure you have sufficient water and snacks for the trip.

Conservation Efforts: Phulchoki Hill is part of the Shivapuri-Nagarjun National Park. Respect the natural environment and adhere to park regulations to contribute to the conservation of the area and its bird species.

Commonly Spotted Birds: Some of the commonly spotted birds in Phulchoki Hill include Long-tailed Browedbill, babblers, yuhinas, warblers, laughing thrushes, sunbirds, rosefinches, and various species of woodpeckers. You might also encounter raptors like eagles, hawks, and falcons soaring above.

Habitats: The hill encompasses different types of habitats, such as subtropical broadleaf forests, mixed coniferous forests, and rhododendron forests. These diverse habitats attract various bird species that have adapted to different ecological niches.

Migratory Birds: Phulchoki Hill serves as a stopover for numerous migratory birds during their seasonal journeys. Many species fly to the hillside during winter and spring, providing bird watchers with a chance to observe migratory patterns and witness the arrival and departure of these birds.

Remember to be patient and quiet while bird watching, as this increases your chances of spotting and observing various species. Enjoy the peaceful surroundings and the beauty of the diverse avian life that Phulchoki Hill has to offer.

General information Birding tour in Nepal.

Especially, the weather in the mountains area is freezing, and in the lowlands, it is warm with some rain-snow possible. Hospitality ranges from mid-level hotels that provided private bathrooms. But in the mountain, however, have shared toilets and showers. The food is good and includes some lunches like picnics. Lowland transportation is by four wheels and minibus but in the mountain by walking. There are specific needs for well-being, and you can contact your GPS. For walks of up to 5 miles, in great places with elegant viewpoints, it desires a reduced grade of well-being. Usually, the highest elevation depended on your interest. The birding and wildlife photography tour is fantastic in Nepal. Visas are based on your appearance.