Raptors Tour in Nepal | Raptor Photography Tour

Altitude : 1764 m
Transportation : Car/Plain
Meals : Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
Best Season : 3rd and 4th week of November
Trek Hour : 7
Accommodation : Hotel and Trekking Lodge.

Cost From

USD 1104 per person

Trip Highlights

Roughly thirteen to fourteen hundred migratory raptors of 36 types of different species use this route during autumn migration.
The November 3rd and 4th weeks are the best times for photography and observing the raptors in Nepal.
Thulo Kharka is not only for birding; this hill also presents amazing views of the Annapurna south and Mt. Fishtail (Machhapuchhare).
Thulo Kharka is a great place for raptors to watch during the migrating season in Nepal.

Raptors Tour in Nepal!

“Raptor photography tours in Nepal offer an excellent opportunity to photograph some of the rarest species in the world. As part of this tour, participants will learn about Nepal’s diverse habitats under the guidance of experts. The tour is suitable for any nature enthusiast or wildlife photographer.”

“Birds of Prey” is another name for raptors in Nepal. Nepal has 60 different species including the Eagle, Falcon, Hawk and Vultures. Raptor watching in Nepal Australian Camp, commonly known as Thulo Kharka, is the ideal location for seeing the Raptors and taking pictures at eye level. It is an accessible foothill path of the Annapurna base camp trek located in the central Himalayas of Nepal. November 3rd and 4th week is the best time to observe the Raptor in Nepal. During migration time we can expect 20 to 300 raptors each day flying over including adults and sub-adult eagles. This place also presents impressive views of the Annapurna South and Fishtail (Machhapuchhare). Fishtail is a lovely mountain, which is the Jewellery of Annapurna.

Thus the village of Kande is on the way to the Baglung highway. It’s just about 35 kilometres northwest of the city of Pokhara. From Kande, trails flow through the foothills of the Annapurna Base Camp (ABC) trekking route to the Australian Camp. In its vicinity, there is farming and higher altitudes have been found to have an oak-rhododendron forest. Thula Kharka presents the best view including the east of Marsikhola and the west of Hyangja Valley. Amur falcon (Falco amurensis), lesser kestrel (Falco naumanni), Egyptian vulture (Neophron percnopterus), saker falcon (Falco cherrug) and many others take this way during migration. Steppe eagles (Aquila nipalensis) and other raptors include endangered, vulture and near-threatened species. During the flying time, Thulo Kharka is mostly covered by steppe eagles (EN) of different ages and plumages.

Especially, with an elevation of 1,764 m, Thulo Kharka is a hilltop observation area. At eye level, we can see them at an incredibly close range. The second-most common migrant is the Himalayan Vulture (NT). Every day, we see hundreds of them, mostly immature and a few adults. We wake up early in the morning each day (before the raptor migration starts) and explore the local region.

The tour begins with your arrival in Kathmandu, the capital city and the starting point of most popular tour packages towards the north. You will be picked up from Tribhuvan International Airport and transferred to the hotel by our representative. You will enjoy a warm welcome with delicious Nepali cuisine. Further details will be provided to you in the evening.

Our journey towards Pokhara will start early in the morning. A tourist bus will take about 7-8 hours to reach there. The distant view of mountains along the way and beautiful green hills will entice you throughout the journey. Upon arrival in Pokhara, you will be taken to the respective hotel near Phewa Lake, where you can enjoy the beautiful evening scenes of Phewa Lake and its surroundings.

After breakfast, it is a one-hour drive to Kande along the Baglung highway. When we reach the Kande, then our journey starts for one and a half hours ascending to Thulo Kharka, “Australian Camp.” After reaching there, we can have lunch and then look around for raptors. Overnight at a trekking guest house in Thulo Kharka with a full board meal plan.

This day, after breakfast, we go for bird watching around Pothana and Bach to Thulo Kharka, and spend the afternoon observing the raptors flying around the campsite. Overnight at a trekking guest house in Thulo Kharka with a full board meal plan.

This day we watch the raptors in the morning and afternoon, so in the late afternoon, if you like, we can go birding around Thulo Kharka. Overnight at a trekking guest house in Thulo Kharka with a full board meal plan.

This day we hike down to Kande after breakfast and drive back to Pokhara for lunch. So, in the afternoon, we drive to the airport and fly back to Kathmandu. The flight takes around 25 minutes, which presents a beautiful landscape and amazing mountain views. After that, we transfer you to the hotel for an evening farewell dinner at a Nepali cultural restaurant.

Every beautiful journey has its end, and this is the last day of your stay in this beautiful country, Nepal, and the completion of the awesome Raptors-watching tour. You will be taken to Tribhuvan International Airport for departure. Apart from this amazing trip, there are many beautiful places to visit. We welcome you to visit us again and be enthralled by wonderful experiences.

Cost Includes

Airport Pick up and Drop off transportation as per itinerary
Twin sharing rooms in star-rated hotels in Kathmandu and Pokhara.
Lunch while birding per the itinerary and bird watching place entrance fees.
(Breakfast and Lunch) each day in Kathmandu and Pokhara at birding time.
An experienced English-speaking bird-watching guide accompanied the whole birding tour.
Lodging, meals, salary, transportation, and insurance of bird watching guide.
travel rescue arrangement and all government taxes.
all ground transportation during the trip.
Welcome and Farewell Dinner

Cost Excludes

International Airfare
Nepal Visa fee (US$ 50 per person for 30 days)
Your international airfare and Nepal Visa fee
Domestic airfare between KTM Pokhara and Kathmandu.
Dinner for your whole trip to Kathmandu and Pokhara.
alcoholic beverages, mineral water, soft drinks, snacks, etc.
Your personal medical or evacuation expenses travel insurance.
If you need to have an extra porter for caring gear, it costs $ 20 per day.
Anything not specified in the cost includes section.
Tips for Guide, Driver, and Porter

If you're planning a Raptor Photography Tour in Australian Camp, Nepal, here is some useful information to help you prepare:

Location: Australian Camp is located in Kaski District, Gandaki Province, Nepal. It is situated at an altitude of approximately 2,050 meters (6,726 feet) and offers breathtaking views of the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges.

Raptor Species: Australian Camp and its surrounding areas are known for their diverse raptor population. Some of the commonly spotted raptor species include the Himalayan Vulture, Steppe Eagle, Black Kite, Himalayan Buzzard, Crested Serpent Eagle, and Lammergeier (Bearded Vulture). However, the presence of raptors may vary depending on the season and migration patterns.

Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Australian Camp for raptor photography is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. During these months, the weather is generally clear, and the chances of spotting raptors are higher. Additionally, these seasons offer favourable lighting conditions for photography.

Photography Equipment: To capture stunning raptor photographs, consider carrying the following equipment:

Camera: A digital SLR or mirrorless camera with manual settings will allow you to have more control over your shots.
Lenses: A telephoto lens with a focal length of at least 200mm is recommended for capturing raptors from a distance. A longer lens, such as a 400mm or 600mm, can provide even better results.
Tripod: A sturdy tripod will help stabilize your camera, especially when using longer lenses.
Binoculars: Carrying a pair of binoculars will enable you to spot raptors from a distance and plan your shots accordingly.
Extra Batteries and Memory Cards: Make sure to carry spare batteries and memory cards to avoid running out of power or storage space during your photography tour.

Accommodation: Australian Camp offers various accommodation options, including lodges and guesthouses. However, keep in mind that the facilities may be basic, as the area is known for its natural beauty rather than luxury amenities. It is advisable to book your accommodation in advance, especially during peak seasons.

Local Guides: Hiring a local guide or joining a guided tour can greatly enhance your raptor photography experience. Local guides are familiar with the area, know the best spots for raptor sightings, and can provide valuable insights into the behaviour and habitat of these birds.

Weather and Clothing: The weather in Australian Camp can be unpredictable, even during the best seasons. It is advisable to carry layered clothing, including warm jackets, as temperatures can drop significantly, especially in the early morning and evening. Additionally, pack rain gear, as the area receives occasional rainfall.

Permits and Regulations: Before starting your photography tour, ensure that you have the necessary permits and adhere to local regulations. Depending on your specific plans and the areas you intend to visit, you may require a trekking permit or a conservation area permit. It is recommended to check with the local authorities or consult with your tour operator for the most up-to-date information.

Remember to respect the wildlife and their natural habitats during your photography tour. Maintain a safe distance from the raptors to avoid causing any disturbance or stress. Enjoy the beauty of the Australian Camp and capture stunning images of the magnificent raptors that inhabit the region.

Sure! Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQs) about the Raptor Photography Tour in Australian Camp, Nepal:

Q: What is the Raptor Photography Tour in Australian Camp, Nepal?

A: The Raptor Photography Tour is a specialized photography tour that focuses on capturing images of raptors (birds of prey) in their natural habitat. The tour takes place in Australian Camp, which is located in the beautiful Annapurna region of Nepal. In Nepal, this is one of the most popular migration routes for raptors.

Q: When does the Raptor Photography Tour take place?

A: The tour typically takes place during the best time for raptor sightings, which is usually from October to March. However, it's best to check with the tour organizers for the specific dates of the upcoming tours.

Q: How long is the tour?

A: The duration of the tour can vary, but it is typically around 5-7 days. This allows participants to have ample time to explore the area, observe raptors, and capture stunning photographs.

Q: What level of photography skills do I need to join the tour?

A: The tour is open to photographers of all skill levels, from beginners to experienced photographers. Whether you're just starting out or have years of experience, the tour provides opportunities for learning, practising, and capturing great shots.

Q: Do I need to have professional camera equipment?

A: While having professional camera equipment can enhance your photography experience, it is not mandatory. You can join the tour with any camera you have, including DSLRs, mirrorless cameras, or even high-quality smartphone cameras.

Q: Is accommodation included in the tour package?

A: Yes, the tour package typically includes accommodation in comfortable lodges or guesthouses near Australian Camp. You can expect basic amenities and a cozy environment to relax and recharge after a day of photography.

Q: Are meals included in the tour package?

A: Yes, most tour packages include meals during the tour. You can expect to have breakfast, lunch, and dinner provided, typically in the form of a set menu or buffet style. Special dietary requirements can usually be accommodated if informed in advance.

Q: Will there be a guide or instructor during the tour?

A: Yes, the tour will have experienced guides who are knowledgeable about the local wildlife and raptors. They will provide guidance on spotting raptors, understanding their behavior, and optimizing your photography opportunities. They can also offer tips and techniques to improve your photography skills.

Q: What other activities can I expect during the tour?

A: Apart from raptor photography, the tour may include additional activities such as nature walks, birdwatching, and exploring the scenic beauty of the Annapurna region. These activities provide opportunities to appreciate the diverse flora and fauna of the area.

Q: How do I book a spot on the Raptor Photography Tour?

A: To book a spot on the tour, you will need to contact the tour organizers or travel agencies that specialize in wildlife photography tours in Nepal. They will provide you with information on availability, pricing, and the booking process.

Remember, the specific details of the Raptor Photography Tour in Australian Camp, Nepal may vary depending on the tour operator and the current offerings. It's always recommended to reach out to the organizers for the most accurate and up-to-date information before making any arrangements.

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