The Satyr Tragopans’ Tour in Bhutan (11-day) is a guided tour designed for birdwatching. This tour will give you an exclusive view of rare and endangered view of birds in their natural habitat. Along with birdwatching, this trip includes cultural exploration in Bhutan, which will complement the bird-watching. Interacting with the locals and the nature of Bhutan will give you a lot of insights as well as knowledge of Bhutan.
We are pleased to welcome you to the Satyr Tragopans Tour, an 11-day bird watching trip. It is located in the quiet highlands and green valleys of the Himalayas. In this trip, you will get to experience a fully guided birding experience in Bhutan. Here you'll get to engage in Bhutan’s forests, rhododendron woodlands, alpine meadows, and subtropical river valleys. You will also get to witness conservation in action and learn about the rich birdlife of Bhutan. The tour’s highlight will be the beautiful and rare Satyr Tragopan, which is a birding prize and holds a lot of significance in Bhutan's culture.
Join us on this 11-day trip, which takes you through the deep forests and pristine valleys where vibrant wildlife thrive, and learn how they survive in their natural habitat. This tour aims to bring you closer to nature and other rare animals and birds found in this area. This 11-day trip will bring you closer to the Himalayas and the Himalayan birds and views, while giving you an authentic taste of the Himalayan culture.
One of the most attractive aspects of this journey is the chance of seeing the spectacular Satyr Tragopan. This is a shy bird found in the high Himalayan region of Bhutan. It is a rare bird with a striking red plumage, white spotted body, and blue facial markings. It is one of the top tiers for bird watchers. An early morning hike towards the Himalayas with your local guide will give you an exclusive view and a chance to experience this bird. This place is isolated and less crowded.
The dense forests of Yongkola and Sengor are internationally recognised for their best bird sighting spots present there. These forests with many trees, herbs, and plants are home to many rare and endangered birds. The Ward’s Trogon, Cutia, Fulvettas, Laughingthrushes, and the mythical-looking Fire-tailed Myzornis are some of the beautiful birds that are found here. This place is isolated and less populated, which is suitable for birds.
For professional photographers and bird watchers, Bhutan offers a dreamlike canvas for their interests. Species like the Himalayan Monal are found among the beautiful branches of rhododendron flowers. You’ll also see the beautiful Fire-tailed Myzornis, with its electric green and crimson tail, which will make you appreciate the beauty of this ecosystem. After this trip, your gallery will be full of pictures from the beautiful Himalayas.
Unlike many other tourist destinations, the Himalayas in Bhutan remain the purest and least-traveled region in the world. This place is full of wildlife and gives you an exclusive view of rare birds and animals in peace and purity. Most of the birding in this trip will happen in a remote ecosystem where only a few tourists will go. The benefit is not only a better chance to spot uncommon birds, but also a deeply peaceful and meditative environment that enhances your connection with nature.
High altitudes in Bhutan are home to many birds and animals in the world. From Pele Le Pass to Yotong La, there are a lot of places that you can explore in Bhutan to see different kinds of birds. With the help of your local guide, you will have the chance to experience the terrain of rare birds such as the Spotted Laughingthrush, Great Parrotbill, and Bar-winged Wren-Babbler. We have an experienced tour guide, and will take you to different beautiful places that you’ll enjoy.
This tour also offers more than just birdwatching. You’ll get to delve more into the cultural dimension, which will complement the birdwatching. Along the way, you’ll visit old temples like Jambay Lhakhang and Kurjey Lhakhang, which are hidden in quiet valleys. You’ll trek through traditional villages where the architecture, customs, and traditional attire reflect Bhutan’s timeless way of life. You’ll also get to share the memories with locals and learn about their traditions on this trip.
This trip will take you to many places in Bhutan. You’ll be travelling through many culturally rich regions such as Paro, Thimphu, Punakha, Wangdue Phodrang, Trongsa, Bumthang, Sengor, and Yongkola. From high mountain passes to the deep and lush valleys across the country, Bhutan will provide you unique birding experience and opportunities to explore the places.
When you are travelling in Bhutan, you’ll get to see many different kinds of birds in this region. The key highlight birds of these regions are the vividly coloured Satyr Tragopan, the beautiful Himalayan Monal, and the Blood Pheasant. These birds are all unique and are found in high-altitude regions. Similarly, the enchanting Fire-tailed Myzornis, Rufous-necked Hornbill, and striking Ward’s Trogon are also the birds that are found in the birding sights of Bhutan.
The Satyr Tragopan is one of the most valuable birds of Bhutan. It holds a lot of significance in the hearts of people of Bhutan. The significance that these birds hold is, it is the symbol of Bhutan’s ecological richness and a flagship species for forest conservation. Its presence indicates healthy, undisturbed habitats in high-altitude zones. Observing the Satyr Tragopan supports awareness and protection of other forest-dependent wildlife.
This visit provides you with the best birding spots in Bhutan, including the areas that most people do not visit. The advantages of having specialised birding guides, small group sizes, and opportunities to catch endemic and localised species are all to your advantage. The timetable integrates the opportunities of cultural immersion and capturing it out-of-this-world scenery. This tour is best suited for both curious birders and tourists alike.
This 11-day journey is more than just birdwatching. You’ll get the opportunity to experience a country that is full of biodiversity and cultural resources. Each minute spent in Bhutan, you’ll feel more blessed with nature and cultural insights. Whether you are a birdwatcher, nature lover, or simply a photographer, this tour provides you with once in alife lifetime experience of witnessing one of the best birdwatching opportunities. After returning from Bhutan, you’ll have a lot of memories that you’ll cherish throughout your life.
Arrive in Paro, riverside birding and optional visit to Paro Dzong or Kyichu Lhakhang
Drive to Thimphu with birding stops in pine forests and riverbanks
Birding at Dochula Pass and Lamperi Botanical Garden and drive to Punakha
Explore Jigme Dorji National Park and bird along Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers
Drive to Wangdue Phodrang with hillside birding and local monastery visit
Birding in Trongsa via Pele La Pass and visit Trongsa Dzong
Drive to Bumthang via Yotong La Pass; birding along Chumey Valley
Birding in Tang Valley and visit Burning Lake with cultural interaction
High-altitude birding trek through alpine rhododendron forests
Leisure birding around Choekhor Valley and cultural visits in Bumthang
Return to Paro and departure from Bhutan
You’ll arrive at Paro International Airport first. Paro is a beautiful city nestled between the high hills. It is a city full of greenery. After you arrive at Paro International Airport, you’ll be greeted by our company representatives and local guides. After that, you’ll go to your hotel, where you are staying. After checking into the hotel, you’ll have some time to rest. You can spend the afternoon birding along the Paro River, spotting Ibisbill, White-capped Redstart, and Plumbeous Water Redstart. You can take a short walk to the nearby rice fields where you can hear the calls of Grey-backed Shrike and Russet Sparrow.. If you still have time, you can visit Kyichu Lhakhang or Paro Rinpung Dzong for a gentle cultural introduction. Enjoy an early dinner and a briefing about the birding tour.
After breakfast, you’ll depart from Paro towards Thimphu. In between the road trip, you can stop in pine forests to begin with your first birding spot. You can have the chance of seeing the Spotted Nutcracker, Black-faced Laughingthrush, and Hoary-throated Barwing. The Wang Chhu river can provide you sight of the resting Kingfisher, White-throated Dipper, and Slaty-backed Forktail. After lunch, you can go to visit the Takin reserve, where you can find the takins and other birds like the Himalayan Black Bulbul. You can explore the outskirts of Thimpu to see birds like the Green-tailed Sunbird and the Grey Bushchat. You will spend the night in Thimphu and leave tomorrow for your next destination.
You will begin your journey the next day in the early morning. Today, you will drive towards the Dochula Pass, which is 3,100 meters high. This path will offer you an exclusive view of some other birds and a view of the Eastern Himalayas. Birding spots in this cool, misty area will give you the best lighting for bird photography. Here, you can view birds such as Fire-tailed Sunbird, Stripe-throated Yuhina, and Rufous-vented Tit. You can also visit the beautiful 108 chortens at the pass before descending to Lamperi Botanical Garden. The trails here give you a sight of Brown Parrotbill, Yellow-billed Blue Magpie, and White-tailed Nuthatch. Then, you’ll continue your journey towards Punakha Valley, which is warmer. The Mo Chhu and Pho Chhu confluence provides a perfect habitat for River Lapwing, Ibisbill, and Eurasian Wryneck. You will spend your night in the Punakha Valley today.
This day covers birding locations in and around Jigme Dorji National Park, which is among the largest protected regions in Bhutan. Start with riverine birding on the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers, looking for such species as the White-throated Laughingthrush, Streaked Spiderhunter, and Crested Serpent Eagle. You can take a walk through the scrub and bamboo, as well as the cultivated field edges. You can see the sight of a rare Rufous-necked Hornbill. After lunch, visit the majestic Punakha Dzong. You will get the opportunity to photograph this cultural site. Here, there are many flowering jacaranda trees. End the day with birding around the Khuruthang marshes, where you can see various waterfowl and herons. You'll stay overnight in Punakha.
Today, you’ll drive towards Wangdue Phodrang. You’ll spot many fantastic birds along the way here. The trails and forest here will lead you to spot some rare birds such as the Himalayan Cutia, Rusty-cheeked Scimitar Babbler, and Chestnut-bellied Nuthatch. Later, you can take a walk along the hillside road to observe some bird flock activities there. The high elevation is also home to many insects, so you should be aware of these things there. After that, if time allows, you can go to nearby monasteries and talk with local people there. This place is far from the crowd and traffic, so you can enjoy your stay here in full peace and serenity. You’ll stay overnight in Wangdue Phodrang.
Today, you’ll depart from Wangdue and move to Trongsa via Pele La pass. This place is known as a hotspot for high-altitude birds. You can stop frequently on the journey to spot birds. Satyr Tragopan, Blood Pheasant, and Scaly-breasted Cupwing are some of the birds that are found in this region. This journey is almost a reward for the bird watchers and nature lovers. As you descend toward Trongsa, keep watching for Great Barbet, White-winged Grosbeak, and flocks of laughingthrushes. Take a lunch break at a scenic viewpoint between the mountains. After reaching Trongsa, you can visit the Trongsa Dzong, which is one of the largest and historically significant fortresses. Today, you’ll stay overnight in Trongsa.
Today, you’ll go to Bumthang via Yotong La Pass. This is also one of the high-altitude birding spots. Here you can look out for Fire-tailed Myzornis, Darjeeling Woodpecker, and Gold-naped Finch. The Chumey Valley is full of pine-covered hills, which are home to many rosefinches, tits, and leaf warblers. Make different stops to explore remote side trails for chances to find Himalayan Bluetail and Black-faced Warbler. You'll reach Bumthang in the afternoon. After reaching, you can enjoy an orientation walk in the valley. You can visit a local temple or take a slow birding walk near rivers. The peaceful landscapes of Bumthang offer a perfect balance of culture and nature. Today you'll stay overnight in Bumthang.
Today, you will go to Tang Valley. Birdwatching trails here are rich in canopy species like Ward’s Trogon, Grey-headed Canary-flycatcher, and Chestnut-crowned Warbler. Visit the enchanting Burning Lake (Mebar Tsho) where fire is tempered with water, merging local legends with wildlife. You can keep an eye out for ultramarine flycatchers and hornbills in the nearby woodland. Spend some time with the local herders and farmers for a glimpse of life in the uplands of Bhutan. Come back to Bumthang in the evening and savor a traditional dinner. Spend the night in Bumthang.
Today, it might be a tiring day for some people as this day includes more trekking and hiking. You’ll trek through 3000+ meters where the environment is silent and peaceful. Today, you’ll have a chance to view the elusive Satyr Tragopan, Blood Pheasant, and Collared Grosbeak. With the help of your guide, you’ll get to experience the calls of rare birds among the thick rhododendron forests. Enjoy lunch in the beautiful, serene Bhumthang. It’ll be evening when you return to your hotel. You’ll have dinner in your hotel and stay overnight in Bhumthang.
After a long day of travel, today you will not travel and have a slow-paced day while birdwatching. You’ll enjoy a slower pace with light birdwatching around Choekhor Valley. You can revisit the birding trails that we have explored before or go to some cultural sites such as Kurjey Lhakhang, where Guru Rinpoche meditated, and Jambay Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest temples. You can go to a nearby farmhouse to taste some local animal-made products, such as butter tea or yak butter. You can interact with people there. Later, you can buy some souvenirs to take home. This will wrap up your stay in Bhumthang. After having dinner, you can take a rest as you’ll be going to Paro tomorrow.
Today, you’ll return to Paro. If you see any missed birds along the way, you can make a stop and see them. After arrival in Paro, do a final riverside birding walk or visit any missed cultural sites. Now it's finally time to say goodbye to Bhutan. You’ll depart from Paro International Airport with unforgettable memories of birds, mountains, and timeless traditions.
The best season to observe birds is from April to June or from September to November. During these months, the birds' activities are at their peak, so the viewers will get an exclusive view of the birds and their activities. These periods also offer stunning natural landscapes and blooming forests, enhancing the overall experience.
Spring (April–June) and Autumn (September–November) are the best seasons to observe the Satyr Tragopan, as they are most active during these seasons and are visible mostly during these seasons.
They are mostly found in the lush rhododendron forests and oak forests of Pele La Pass, Yotong La, and Sengor. Mostly at a height of 2500-3000 meters
Yes! With the help of bird guiding experts, this trip is suitable for both professional bird watchers and beginners.
Absolutely. Solo travelers are welcome. If they want, they can also join a small group or request a private tour.
Moderate fitness is ideal. As some day you may have to trek and hike on some trails.
Species like Ward’s Trogon, White-bellied Heron, Rufous-necked Hornbill, Fire-tailed Sunbird, and Beautiful Nuthatch are often seen, among others.
Yes, expert birding guides and trackers will be there on this trip to teach you about each bird and to give you an exclusive view of these birds at their best.
Yes, it’s customizable! Let us know if you’d like to extend your stay or align your tour.
You need a visa and all necessary permits for your trip. These documents can not be received on the day of your arrival, so they must be processed before coming here. After you book a trip with us, we will manage these papers for you. Your Bhutan visa is arranged by Orrog as part of the package.
The main way to come to Bhutan is through Paro International Airport, which is well-connected to cities like Bangkok, Delhi, Kathmandu, and Singapore. Most people arrive by air, but if you plan to come via road, you can enter through Phuentsholing, located on the southern border with India, which is the most commonly used entry point.
It is recommended to apply for the visa at least 20 days before your planned departure date so that there is enough time for processing your Bhutan visa, finalizing your itinerary, and arranging your guides and transportation. Although visa processing itself is relatively fast once payment is received, early preparation helps avoid delays and ensures availability, especially during peak seasons (spring and autumn).
You don’t require a passport-size photo for the visa, but it is wise to carry at least 2–4 recent passport-sized photographs during your trip. These may be needed for local permits, registration, or when applying for a local SIM card upon arrival in Bhutan.
Yes, you can lengthen your stay in Bhutan either before or after your trip. Bhutan’s tourism model requires visitors to pay a Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) and a daily package cost, so any extra days will involve additional charges. Extensions are a great opportunity to explore cultural sites in Paro, Thimphu, or even add another short trip or day hike.
Yes, Bhutan requires full tour payment in advance before your visa can be processed and issued. The government of Bhutan regulates this policy to ensure that all travel arrangements are confirmed through a licensed Bhutanese tour operator. We are a licensed tour operator that ensures you have everything you need for a trouble-free trip.
Any personal expenses are not covered in the package like:
Credit cards are easily accepted in major cities like Paro and Thimphu. But in remote areas, you may not have access to a card or an ATM. So, it is best to carry some cash before heading for the trip.
Tipping is not mandatory, but it is a widely appreciated gesture and a customary way to show gratitude for good service. The tipping guideline would be to give USD 5-10 per day as a tip for the guides and other staff.
Paro International Airport is the only international airport in Bhutan. It is well connected by flights from cities like Bangkok, Delhi, Kathmandu, and Singapore.
Yes, airport pick-up and drop-off are included in the package. We will have your guide and driver meet you at the airport and transport you to your hotel.
While Bhutan's roads are mostly paved, some parts are narrow, winding, and occasionally affected by weather. However, we ensure your travel is safe, well-maintained, and driven by an experienced professional throughout the journey.
The Bhutanese Ngultrum is used in Bhutan. All local transactions during the trip will be in BTN.
US Dollars (USD) are generally accepted at larger hotels, souvenir shops, and tour operators, particularly in Paro and Thimphu. However, it’s advisable to convert your currency to BTN for general purchases in rural areas. Other currencies like the Euro or the Pound are not commonly accepted directly.
No, credit or debit cards are not accepted on the trip, as it takes you through remote regions with no banking or electronic payment access. All trip-related payments like accommodation, meals, permits, etc, are paid in advance.
You can exchange foreign currency at the Paro International Airport, at banks, or through licensed money changers in cities like Thimphu and Paro. It's best to exchange enough cash before heading out on the trip.
The national language is Dzongkha, but many Bhutanese also speak English. If you speak English and are worried about communicating with the local people, you will have your guide as a translator.
Yes, all licensed tour guides in Bhutan are required to speak fluent English. Many are also trained in other languages such as German, Japanese, or French. Communication during the trip will be smooth and clear in English.
Most signboards, tourist maps, and information brochures are written in English, especially in tourist destinations like Paro, Thimphu, and trailheads. Directional signs along routes are often labeled in both Dzongkha and English.
No, learning Dzongkha is not at all needed for the trip, but knowing a few basic words like "Kuzu zangpo la" (Hello) or "Kadrinche la" (Thank you) is a good way to interact with the locals.
Language barriers are minimal, as your guide will handle all communication with locals and support staff. Your guide will translate for you during your interaction with the locals.
To greet people, you can greet with locals “Kuzu zangpo la” (Hello) by performing a slight bow. Most common greetings include physical greetings, such as shaking hands less visible, especially in rural areas.
Yes, but remember to seek permission, especially when taking photos of monks, locals, or temples. Please note that clicking photos is not allowed at most religious sites.
Visitors should dress modestly and respectfully. This means:
This applies to both men and women.
Yes, Bhutanese society is deeply rooted in Buddhism and tradition. Here are some key taboos:
While gifts are not expected, they may be accepted graciously if given with respect. It is advisable to consult with the guide before giving out anything.
Bhutan typically uses Type C, Type D, and Type G electrical outlets. Standard safe voltage is 230V and frequency is 50Hz; therefore, ensure that your equipment is compatible with this voltage.
Indeed, it is highly advised to take along a universal travel adapter, particularly one to fit a variety of types of plugs, because plugs can be different in a hotel or a guesthouse.
Bhutan follows Bhutan Time (BTT), which is UTC/GMT +6 hours. This time zone remains consistent throughout the year.
No, Bhutan does not observe daylight saving time. The country maintains the same time year-round.
Bhutan is 30 minutes ahead of India. For example, 12:00 PM in India is 12:30 PM in Bhutan.
Yes, souvenirs can be bought in Paro or Thimphu before or after the trip.
Some popular souvenirs include hand-woven textiles (kira and gho fabric), prayer flags, thangka (religious scroll) paintings, handmade paper products, traditional masks, and Buddhist artifacts.
You can do some gentle bargaining in local street markets. However, in government-run shops and fixed-price stores, prices are usually non-negotiable.
Yes, you can easily purchase a SIM card upon arrival in Bhutan. We will assist you with the process, and you'll need a passport copy and a passport-sized photo.
No, internet access is not available during the trip. However, Wi-Fi is available in hotels in Paro and Thimphu before and after the trip.
Start your journey today and discover the magic of Bhutan with our expert guides and carefully crafted tours.
Feel free to ask us anything about this tour. A travel expert will then get back to you as soon as possible
Start your journey today and discover the magic of Bhutan with our expert guides and carefully crafted tours.