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Himalayan Birding

Himalayan Birding : New Delhi – Jim Corbett – Chopta – Sattal – Chanfi – Pangot – Ranikhet

New Delhi, the capital of India, is a vibrant metropolis blending history and modernity. From the grandeur of India Gate and Rashtrapati Bhavan to the bustling markets of Connaught Place, the city offers a dynamic experience. Its rich heritage, diverse cuisine, and cultural landmarks make it a must-visit destination.

 

Jim Corbett National Park, India’s oldest national park, is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers. Nestled in Uttarakhand’s foothills, it is renowned for its Bengal tigers, diverse fauna, and scenic landscapes of dense forests, rivers, and grasslands. A safari here offers an unforgettable experience of spotting wildlife in their natural habitat.

 

Chopta, often called the “Mini Switzerland of India,” is a picturesque hill station in Uttarakhand, known for its lush meadows, dense forests, and breathtaking views of the Himalayas. It serves as the base for the trek to Tungnath, the highest Shiva temple in the world, and Chandrashila, offering panoramic vistas. A paradise for nature lovers and trekkers, Chopta remains an unspoiled gem with year-round beauty.

 

Sattal, a hidden gem in Uttarakhand, is a cluster of seven interconnected freshwater lakes surrounded by dense oak and pine forests. Known for its rich biodiversity, it is a paradise for birdwatchers, nature lovers, and adventure seekers. The serene landscape and tranquil waters make it a perfect getaway from the hustle of city life.

 

Chanfi, a serene hamlet near Nainital in Uttarakhand, is a hidden paradise known for its untouched natural beauty and peaceful surroundings. Nestled along a pristine river, it is a haven for birdwatchers, trekkers, and those seeking solitude amidst nature. The village offers a perfect escape with its lush greenery, gurgling streams, and breathtaking mountain views.

 

Pangot, a picturesque village near Nainital in Uttarakhand, is a paradise for birdwatchers and nature lovers. Surrounded by dense oak and rhododendron forests, it is home to over 300 bird species, including the elusive Cheer and Koklass pheasants. With its tranquil ambiance, scenic trails, and stunning Himalayan views, Pangot offers a perfect retreat for those seeking solitude in nature.

 

Ranikhet, a charming hill station in Uttarakhand, is known for its lush green meadows, pine forests, and breathtaking Himalayan views. Home to the Kumaon Regiment, it offers a perfect blend of colonial-era charm, serene temples, and scenic trails. With its cool climate and peaceful ambiance, Ranikhet is an ideal retreat for nature lovers and those seeking a quiet escape.

Day 1: 

Arrival in New Delhi
Upon arrival at Indira Gandhi International Airport, you will be greeted and transferred to your hotel. Depending on your arrival time, you can visit the Okhla Bird Sanctuary or Sultanpur National Park, both offering excellent opportunities to spot migratory and resident birds like painted storks, Indian spot-billed ducks, and black-headed ibis. Enjoy a welcome dinner and overnight stay in Delhi.

 

Day 2: 

Delhi to Jim Corbett National Park (Approx. 6-7 hours drive)
After an early breakfast, drive to Jim Corbett National Park, one of India’s premier wildlife reserves, known for its diverse birdlife and rich ecosystem. Upon arrival, check in to your lodge and relax. In the afternoon, enjoy a birding walk along the Kosi River, where you can spot the crested kingfisher, wallcreeper, brown dipper, and tawny fish owl. Evening at leisure with a wildlife documentary. Overnight stay in Corbett.

 

Day 3 & 4: 

Birding in Corbett – Dhikala Zone Safari
Start the day with an early morning jeep safari inside Corbett National Park’s Dhikala Zone, known for sightings of the great hornbill, Pallas’s fish eagle, and red junglefowl. You may also encounter mammals like wild elephants and tigers. Return for breakfast, followed by a birding session in the nearby grasslands, where species such as Indian courser and yellow-wattled lapwing can be spotted. In the evening, explore the forested trails near your lodge. Overnight stay in Corbett.

 

Day 5: 

Corbett to Chopta (Approx. 7-8 hours drive)
After breakfast, depart for Chopta, a pristine birding hotspot in the Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary. En route, enjoy birdwatching opportunities in the Mandal and Kakragad regions, where you might spot the spotted forktail, little pied flycatcher, and blue-capped rock thrush. Upon arrival in Chopta, check in to your lodge and relax. Overnight stay in Chopta.

 

Day 6 & 7: 

Birding in Chopta – Tungnath & Deoria Tal
Start early with a trek to Tungnath, the highest Shiva temple, while observing high-altitude birds such as the Himalayan monal, snow partridge, and fire-tailed sunbird. Descend and proceed to Deoria Tal, a scenic lake surrounded by dense forests, where you can find the rufous-bellied woodpecker and the white-throated laughingthrush. Return to your lodge for a relaxed evening. Overnight stay in Chopta.

 

Day 8: 

Chopta to Sattal (Approx. 8-9 hours drive)
After breakfast, depart for Sattal, a paradise for birdwatchers. En route, enjoy birding stops in Kausani and Almora, where you might see the ultramarine flycatcher and black-headed jay. Upon arrival in Sattal, check in to your lodge. In the evening, enjoy a short birding session around the lakeside trails, where you may spot the rusty-cheeked scimitar babbler and Himalayan griffon. Overnight stay in Sattal.

 

Day 9 & 10: 

Birding in Sattal & Chanfi
Start your morning birding in Sattal’s oak and pine forests, home to species like the red-billed leiothrix, blue-throated barbet, and greater yellownape. Later, proceed to Chanfi, a lesser-explored birding destination known for the brown dipper, crested kingfisher, and forktails. Spend the afternoon exploring riverine habitats and forested trails. Return to Sattal for an overnight stay.

 

Day 11: 

Sattal to Pangot (Approx. 2 hours drive)
After breakfast, drive to Pangot, a well-known birding destination near Nainital. En route, stop at birding hotspots like Mongoli Valley and Kilbury, where you can find the cheer pheasant, koklass pheasant, and streaked laughingthrush. Upon arrival in Pangot, check in to your lodge. In the evening, explore nearby trails, offering sightings of the black francolin, rufous sibia, and green-backed tit. Overnight stay in Pangot.

 

Day 12: 

Pangot to Ranikhet (Approx. 3 hours drive)
Start your morning with a birding session in Pangot, covering the dense forests and grasslands. Later, drive to Ranikhet, a picturesque hill station known for its Himalayan views and birdlife. Upon arrival, check in to your lodge. In the afternoon, explore the forests around Jhula Devi Temple and Chaubatia Orchards, where you can spot the yellow-throated marten and the Himalayan woodpecker. Overnight stay in Ranikhet.

 

Day 13: 

Ranikhet to Delhi (Approx. 8-9 hours drive or train option)
After breakfast, enjoy a short birding walk in the surrounding forests before departing for Delhi. Alternatively, take a train from Kathgodam for a comfortable return. Upon arrival in Delhi, transfer to the airport for your onward journey, concluding your incredible birding adventure in the Himalayas.

Package Cost :

The Package Cost Will Be as Per Request.

Inclusions:

  • Transfers from the nearest Airport / Railway Station
  • Accommodation on Full Board Basis. 
  • Safaris with an expert forest guide
  • Birding Expert throughout the Birding Trip. 
  • Inclusive of all taxes

Exclusions:

  • Any other services or meals which are not mentioned in the “Inclusions” Section.
  • Expenses of personal nature.
  • Any tips to the Safari Guide or Driver at your will.
  • Camera charges (If any)

Things to carry: Face Mask and Pocket Hand Sanitizers are must during the Safaris.

  • Carry your id proof given at the time of booking the safaris (compulsory).
  • Comfortable loose clothing, preferably cotton and full sleeves for summers
  • Warm Clothes, Gloves for Chilly early morning safaris.
  • Muted color clothes, which blend with the surroundings, no loud colors.
  • Sunscreen to protect yourself from sunburn and tan.
  • Mosquito repellant / Odomos to protect from insect bites.
  • Reusable bottle of water, since we discourage the use of plastic/ disposable bottles.
  • Light quick bites like peppermints, nutribars etc. for long safaris. Nothing liquid or semi-liquid to be carried.
  • Comfortable footwear, preferably sports shoes.
  • Personal medication, if any.
  • Portable easy to carry torch.
  • Binoculars are helpful for distant sightings and birding.
  • If you are carrying a camera, please carry spare memory card and battery.
  • A Bandanna or a Scarf is helpful to protect yourself from sun.
  • Good comfortable hat / cap as you will be wearing it for a long time
  • Pocket diary and pen to make notes of the sightings and behavior.

Booking Request Form