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Annapurna Bird watching Tour | Ghorepani Birdwatching Tour

  • Altitude : 3210 m
  • Transportation : Car/Plain/Bus/Jeep
  • Meals : Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
  • Best Season : Spring/Autumn/Winter
  • Trek Hour : 6
  • Accommodation : Hotel/Lodge
Cost From

USD 1774 per person

Trip Highlights

  • The Annapurna region is home to over 500 species of birds, including numerous endemic and migratory species. You can spot colourful birds like the Himalayan Monal, Koklass Pheasant, Satyr Tragopan, and a variety of robins, thrushes, and warblers.
  • Professional bird guides with extensive knowledge of the local birdlife will accompany you throughout the tour. They will assist in identifying different bird species and provide valuable insights into their behaviour and habitat.
  • The best time for bird watching in the Annapurna region is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. These periods offer favourable weather conditions and a higher chance of spotting a wide variety of bird species.
  • The Annapurna Bird Watching Tour often involves trekking through picturesque trails, allowing you to immerse yourself in nature and explore diverse habitats where various bird species thrive with the beautiful Annapurna Himalayan range.

Ghorepani Annapurna Birdwatching Tour.

“The Annapurna Bird watching Tour at Ghorepani trek is famous for its breathtaking mountain landscapes, but it also offers excellent opportunities for birdwatching. With its diverse ecosystems, ranging from lowland forests to alpine meadows, the region is home to a wide variety of bird species. Especially Ulleri, Ghorepani, and Ghandruk is the main place for bird watching in the Annapurna region.”

 

Welcome to the Annapurna Birdwatching Tour! Annapurna is a renowned region in Nepal, famous for its breathtaking landscapes and rich biodiversity. obviously, Bird-watching enthusiasts flock to this area to observe a wide variety of avian species amidst the stunning Himalayan backdrop. Let me provide you with some information about this tour.

 

Especially, Ulleri is home to many seasonable species, with the most common ones being Great Barbet, Russet Sparrow, Gray Bushchat, Black-chined Babbler, Rufous Sibia, and Verditer flycatcher. The Ghorepani region is home to several highland species, including the Black-faced Laughingthrush, Chestnut-crowned Warbler, Great Parrotbill, and Yellow-billed Blue Magpie.

 

It is a great spot to observe and take pictures of some of the most beautiful birds in the world. Along the trails, we can see many different species, but the Great Parrotbill is the highlight. The Great Parrotbill is an endangered species, so it is a rare sight. It is a fascinating creature to observe in its natural bamboo habitat. After Ghorepani, we bird Ghandruk village. We visit the Annapurna Conservation Area, where we can spot many birds such as the common magpie and the red-billed leiothrix.

 

The best places to watch raptors are Ghorepani, Ghandruk, and Thula Kharka. As a result, these three locations are easily accessible and provide stunning views of the Himalayas. You can see dozens of species of raptors in their natural habitat, including the majestic Himalayan griffon vulture. The best time to visit these areas is during the winter and spring months.

 

Near Pokhara, the Pame is an area for wetland birds in the winter. The wetland area is an important habitat for migratory birds and is home to many species of waterfowl. It is a great spot for bird watchers and nature lovers alike. It is also a great place to relax and enjoy the tranquillity of the area. We have many water birds recorded in the Fewa wetlands. These birds include ducks, geese, herons, ibises, egrets, and kingfishers. Many of these birds migrate from other parts of the world to the wetland for breeding. This makes the Fewa wetland a valuable habitat for these species.

 

However, the Bird Photography tour in the Annapurna Region is an excellent destination for bird photography due to its diverse landscape, vibrant culture, and abundance of bird species. It is an ideal destination for nature and bird photographers. It’s important to note that the specific bird species you may encounter can vary depending on the season and the time of year you visit. It’s advisable to consult with local birding experts or tour operators who can provide more detailed information about the best times for bird watching in the Annapurna region.

 

The following list highlights some of the notable bird species in the Annapurna region:

The Koklass pheasant (Pucrasia macrolopha): This is a species of bird belonging to the pheasant family, Phasianidae. It is found in the Himalayan region of South Asia, including parts of India, Nepal, Bhutan, Tibet, and Pakistan.

Himalayan Monal (Lophophorus impejanus): The Himalayan Monal is a colorful pheasant species that can be spotted in the forests of Ghorepani. The male birds are particularly striking with their iridescent feathers, which display a spectrum of vibrant colours.

Satyr Tragopan (Tragopan satyra): Another beautiful pheasant species found in Ghorepani is the Satyr Tragopan. The males have distinctive plumage with a white-spotted black back, a redhead, and blue facial skin. They are known for their elaborate courtship displays during the breeding season.

Fire-tailed Myzornis (Myzornis pyrrhoura): The Fire-tailed Myzornis is a small, colorful bird that hangs around the dense forests of Ghorepani. It has a bright green body, a black throat, and a striking, fiery red-orange tail.

White-throated Redstart (Phoenicurus schisticeps): This small passerine bird is common species in the Ghorepani region. The male birds have a black body with a white throat and a vibrant red or orange tail, while the females are duller in colour.

Grey-headed Canary-flycatcher (Culicicapa ceylonensis): This tiny bird flits around the forests of Ghorepani. It has a grey head and upperparts, yellow underparts, and a distinctive crest. Its melodious song adds to the natural symphony of the region.

Golden-throated Barbet (Psilopogon franklinii): The Golden-throated Barbet is a striking bird species that inhabit the Ghorepani forests. It has a predominantly green plumage with a golden-yellow throat, a red face, and a colourful bill.

Rufous Sibia (Heterophasia capistrata): The Rufous Sibia is a medium size songbird hanging around the Ghorepani region. It has a unique appearance with its rufous-coloured body, black cap, and long, curved bill.

 

Moreover, these are just a few of the bird species sightings in the Ghorepani area. The region’s diverse ecosystems, including forests, meadows, and mountains, provide habitat for numerous bird species, making it a paradise for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.

 

Duration: The duration of the Annapurna Bird Watching Tour can vary depending on your preferences. Typically, birding tours range from 7 to 14 days. You can choose the duration that suits your interests and schedule.

 

Highlights:

Diverse Bird Species: The Annapurna region is home to over 500 species of birds, including numerous endemic and migratory species. You can spot colourful birds like the Himalayan Monal, Koklass Pheasant, Satyr Tragopan, and a variety of robins, thrushes, and warblers.

Natural Splendor: While bird watching, you’ll be surrounded by the majestic Himalayan mountain range, lush forests, cascading waterfalls, and serene valleys. The scenery itself is a treat to behold.

Expert Guides: Professional bird guides with extensive knowledge of the local birdlife will accompany you throughout the tour. They will assist in identifying different bird species and provide valuable insights into their behaviour and habitat.

Trekking Experience: The Annapurna Bird Watching Tour often involves trekking through picturesque trails, allowing you to immerse yourself in nature and explore diverse habitats where various bird species thrive.

Cultural Immersion: The Annapurna region is inhabited by ethnic communities such as Gurungs, Magars, and Thakalis. This tour offers opportunities to learn about their vibrant culture, traditions, and warm hospitality.

Accommodation and Meals: During the tour, you will stay in comfortable teahouses or lodges along the trekking route. These accommodations provide basic amenities and local cuisine to refuel you for your bird-watching adventures.

Best Time for Bird Watching: The best time for bird watching in the Annapurna region is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. These periods offer favorable weather conditions and a higher chance of spotting a wide variety of bird species.

Permits and Logistics: To visit the Annapurna Conservation Area, you will need to obtain the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) card.

 

Especially, the Annapurna Birdwatching Tour permits are arranged through a local travel agency or acquired upon arrival in Kathmandu or Pokhara. It is advisable to book your tour through a reputable travel agency that specializes in bird-watching tours in Nepal. They will take care of logistics, permits, etc.

Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu.

Transfer to your hotel and check in.

Meet with your tour guide who will provide a briefing about the upcoming bird-watching tour evening welcome dinner.

Rest and relax for the remainder of the day.

After breakfast, drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara (approximately 6 hours).

Enjoy the scenic landscapes along the way.

Arrive in Pokhara and check in to your hotel.

Spend the evening exploring the lakeside area.

First, we take the car to Nayapul or Birethanti. Then start bird-watching along the trail from Birethanti to Tokhe Dhunga. The trail passes through several beautiful villages, offering stunning views of the Annapurna mountain range. In this area, you can find many hysterical bird species. The track is well-marked and easy to navigate, making it an excellent choice for bird-watching on this route. The hike is an ideal way to experience the Nepalese Himalayan culture, with flora and fauna.

Early in the morning, go birding around Tikhedhunga, then Banthanti after breakfast. The trail offers stunning views of the Annapurna mountain range, including the Machapuchare mountain. The climb is steep but the reward is an unrivalled view of the majestic mountains. Along the Ulleri trails you can see many different species including Thrush, Finch, Bulbul, Sparrow, Treepie, etc. This area makes a birding trip.

Morning bird-watching in Banthanti, then Ghorepani. The hike is around the Rhododendron forest and offers many bird species like Grey Bushchat, Russet Sparrow, Himalayan Cuckoo, Rufous Sibia, and many others. It is an easy hike that can be completed by people of all ages and abilities. This is an excellent way to experience the Himalayas' beauty. 

Early morning hike to Poon Hill (approximately 1 hour) to witness the stunning sunrise over the Annapurna and Dhaulagiri mountain ranges.

Enjoy the breathtaking panoramic views and capture memorable photos.

Descend to Ghorepani and have breakfast.

Continue your trek to Tadapani (approximately 6-7 hours of trekking).

Spot various bird species like the Himalayan griffon, Rufous Sibia, and more along the trail.

Overnight stay in a guesthouse in Tadapani.

Start your trek from Tadapani to Ghandruk (approximately 3-4 hours of trekking).

Ghandruk's strategic location amidst lush forests, terraced fields, and scenic landscapes makes it a haven for birdwatchers. The village is situated at an altitude that ranges from 1,940 to 2,012 meters, which means a rich diversity of avian species can be found here, including both resident and migratory birds. So enjoy the birding around Ghandruk.

From Ghandruk, you'll first trek downhill to Nayapul. The trek will take you through beautiful landscapes, terraced fields, and charming villages. It usually takes around 4-6 hours to reach Nayapul, depending on your pace and the weather conditions.

Driving from Pokhara to Kathmandu can be a scenic and enjoyable option, as the journey takes you through picturesque landscapes. The distance between the two cities is around 200 kilometres (approximately 125 miles), and the drive can take anywhere from 5 to 7 hours, depending on the road conditions and traffic. The most common route is to take the Prithvi Highway, which is a well-maintained road connecting the two cities.

Fly from Pokhara to Kathmandu: Another option is to take a domestic flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu. This is the quickest way to travel between the two cities, taking approximately 25-30 minutes of flight time. However, keep in mind that the total travel time will be longer when accounting for airport check-in, security, and potential flight delays.

As your memorable Annapurna Bird Watching Tour comes to an end, it's time for your final departure to your destination. Throughout the journey, you've witnessed the stunning beauty of the Annapurna region, encountered a diverse array of bird species, and created cherished memories. Wishing you safe travels and a continued love for the wonders of the natural world! May your next destination be filled with adventure and new experiences. 

Cost Includes

  • Airport Pick up and Drop off transportation as per itinerary
  • twin sharing room in a star-category hotel in Kathmandu and Pokhara. 
  • Lunch and Dinner while birding per itinerary; all bird-watching places have entrance fees. 
  • An experienced English-speaking bird-watching guide during the whole birding tour.
  • Accommodation, meals, salary, transportation, and insurance of the bird-watching guide. 
  • Welcome and farewell dinner in Kathmandu with a cultural program. 
  • Travel rescue arrangement and all government taxes.
  • ground and air transportation during the trip.
  • All necessary permits and park fees etc.

Cost Excludes

  • International Airfare
  • Nepal Visa fee (US$ 50 per person for 30 days)
  • Your international airfare and Nepal Visa fee.
  • Anny equipment for bird watching like binoculars, Cameras etc. 
  • Any alcoholic beverages, mineral water, soft drinks, snacks, etc.
  • Your personal medical or evacuation expenses travel insurance.
  • Anything not specified in the cost includes section is included in the cost.
  • Tips for the Driver, guide, and Porter.

The Annapurna region in Nepal is known for its stunning landscapes, diverse flora and fauna, and excellent birdwatching opportunities. Here's some useful information for a birdwatching tour in the Annapurna region:

Best Time to Visit: The best time for birdwatching in the Annapurna region is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. These months offer pleasant weather, clear skies, and a high probability of spotting a wide variety of bird species.

Bird Species: The Annapurna region is home to numerous bird species, including several endemic and migratory birds. Some commonly spotted birds in the region include the Himalayan Monal, Blood Pheasant, Cheer Pheasant, Satyr Tragopan, Impeyan Pheasant, Spiny Babbler, Grandala, and many more.

Birding Sites: There are several popular birding sites in the Annapurna region, including Ghorepani, Ghandruk, Tatopani, Jomsom, Muktinath, and Phulchowki. These areas offer a diverse range of habitats, from forests and grasslands to river valleys and alpine regions, attracting a wide variety of bird species.

Local Guides: Hiring a local birdwatching guide is highly recommended, as they possess excellent knowledge about the local bird species, their habitats, and their behaviour. They can significantly enhance your birdwatching experience and help you spot elusive species.

Equipment: It's essential to carry the right equipment for birdwatching. Some of the essential items include a good pair of binoculars, a field guidebook specific to birds of Nepal or the Annapurna region, a notebook and pen for recording observations, comfortable clothing and footwear, a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a camera with a telephoto lens if you wish to capture bird photographs.

Permits: While birdwatching in the Annapurna region, you may need to obtain permits depending on the specific areas you plan to visit. For instance, if you plan to enter the Annapurna Conservation Area, you will need to obtain an Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP). Check with local authorities or your tour operator to ensure you have the necessary permits.

Accommodation: The Annapurna region offers a range of accommodation options, including guesthouses, teahouses, and lodges along the trekking routes. It's advisable to book your accommodations in advance, especially during peak birdwatching seasons, to secure a comfortable stay.

Safety and Health: Prioritize your safety and well-being during the tour. Ensure you have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and familiarize yourself with the potential risks of altitude sickness, especially if you plan to trek to higher elevations. It's also advisable to carry a basic first-aid kit and any necessary medications.

Remember to respect nature, follow local regulations, and maintain a responsible approach to birdwatching. Enjoy the breathtaking landscapes and the incredible bird species that make the Annapurna region a birdwatcher's paradise.

Sure! Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQ) about the Annapurna Bird Watching tour:

Q: What is the Annapurna Bird Watching tour?

A: The Annapurna Bird Watching tour is a specialized tour designed for bird enthusiasts and nature lovers. It takes place in the Annapurna region of Nepal, known for its diverse bird species and stunning landscapes.

Q: What is the duration of the tour?

A: The duration of the tour can vary depending on the itinerary you choose. It typically ranges from 5 to 10 days.

Q: What is the best time to go on the Annapurna Bird Watching tour?

A: The best time for bird watching in the Annapurna region is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. These periods offer favourable weather conditions and a higher chance of spotting a wide variety of bird species.

Q: What types of birds can I expect to see?

A: The Annapurna region is home to a rich avian diversity. You can expect to see a variety of bird species, including but not limited to pheasants, eagles, vultures, falcons, owls, thrushes, flycatchers, and various Himalayan songbirds.

Q: Do I need to be an experienced bird watcher to join the tour?

A: No, the Annapurna Bird Watching tour is suitable for bird enthusiasts of all levels, including beginners. Expert bird guides will accompany you and provide insights into the local birdlife, making the experience enjoyable and educational for everyone.

Q: How physically demanding is the tour?

A: The physical demands of the tour can vary depending on the specific itinerary and your fitness level. Some bird-watching spots may require short hikes or walking on uneven terrain. It's advisable to have a reasonable level of fitness to fully enjoy the tour, but the intensity can be adjusted based on your preferences.

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

A: In addition to bird watching, the Annapurna region offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas, lush forests, cascading waterfalls, and charming villages. You may also have the opportunity to encounter other wildlife, such as monkeys, deer, and possibly even rare species like the elusive snow leopard.

Q: What should I bring with me on the tour?

A: It's recommended to bring the following essentials: comfortable walking shoes, binoculars, a camera, a field guidebook, sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen), insect repellent, a water bottle, and suitable clothing for varying weather conditions. It's also advisable to pack a small backpack for carrying these items during the tour.

Q: Will accommodation and meals be provided?

A: Yes, accommodations and meals will typically be arranged as part of the tour package. Depending on the itinerary, you may stay in comfortable lodges, guesthouses, or teahouses along the route. The meals provided will be a combination of local and international cuisine, catering to different dietary preferences.

Q: Are permits required for the Annapurna Bird Watching tour?

A: Yes, you will need to obtain the necessary permits to enter the Annapurna Conservation Area. This includes the Annapurna Conservation Area Permit (ACAP) and the Trekkers' Information Management System (TIMS) card. Your tour operator can assist you in obtaining these permits.

Please note that specific details, such as tour operators, itineraries, and permit requirements, may vary. It's always recommended to contact a reputable tour operator or travel agency for the most up-to-date and accurate information regarding the Annapurna Bird Watching tour.

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