TALE OF WHITE-BELLIEDHERON
Our Bhutan birding tour is an extraordinary journey designed for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers, focusing on the rare White Bellied Heron. Scheduled at the end of autumn, the tour maximizes your chances of spotting this critically endangered species. You will explore key habitats including Punakha, Wangduephodrang, Tsirang, Sarbang, and Zhemgang, regions renowned for the presence of the White Bellied Heron, while also offering sightings of numerous other significant bird and mammal species against the backdrop of iconic Bhutanese cultural sites.
Expect a leisurely pace with extensive river walks to observe and photograph the elusive White Bellied Heron, along with other fascinating riverine species. This immersive experience combines rare wildlife observation with the stunning landscapes and vibrant culture of Bhutan.
What to Expect: This photographic journey caters to both novice enthusiasts seeking to learn about the White Bellied Heron’s behavior and habitat, and seasoned photographers aiming for high-quality captures of a select few species. Emphasis is placed on quality over quantity.
Local Leaders: Our passionate and knowledgeable local guides are dedicated to enriching your experience. They provide expert insights, practical tips, and attentive service to ensure your White Bellied Heron expedition is both rewarding and memorable.
Sustainable Photography: We promote responsible and ethical photography practices that protect the environment, wildlife, and local communities. Your journey will foster sustainability and respect for Bhutan’s ecological and cultural heritage.
Patience in Wildlife Photography: Capturing the perfect shot of the White Bellied Heron often requires patience and careful observation. Understanding animal behavior and remaining alert are key to successful wildlife photography.
Customizable Itineraries: If our standard tour does not align with your interests, we offer tailor-made itineraries to craft a unique White Bellied Heron experience, ensuring every aspect matches your preferences.
Bird Highlights: White Bellied Heron, Great Cormorant, Palla’s Fish Eagle, Blue-throated Barbet, Great Barbet, Great Hornbill, Rufous-necked Hornbill, Hill Partridge, Ward’s Trogon, Hume’s Warbler, Ibisbill, Northern Pintail, Ruddy Shelduck, River Lapwing, Common Kingfisher, Common Merganser, Eurasian Teal, Ferruginous Duck, Crested Kingfisher, Common Sandpiper, Red-crested Pochard, Tufted Duck, and more.
Day 01: Arrival in Paro
- Sightseeing includes Paro Dzong, National Museum, and Jangsa Dumtse Lhakhang. Explore Paro town.
Day 02: Chelela Bird Excursion
- Birdwatching at Chelela Pass, notable for Himalayan bird species.
Day 03: Paro to Punakha
- Travel through Thimphu and Dochula Pass; birdwatching for Himalayan species.
Day 04: Mochu River Valley
- Explore white-bellied heron and other significant bird species.
Day 05: Punatshangchu River Valley
- Birdwatching along the river basin, focusing on critically endangered species.
Day 06: Punakha to Tsirang
- Travel through subtropical forests with diverse bird species sightings.
Day 07: Tsirang to Gelephu
- Transition through undisturbed forests, spot unique and varied bird species.
Day 08: Birding in Gelephu
- Dedicated birdwatching day in lowland areas.
Day 09: Gelephu to Tingtibi
- Travel through diverse habitats, looking for elusive and rare bird species.
Day 10: Birti Heron Hike
- Hike in search of the critically endangered, white-bellied heron and other birds.
Day 11: Pangbang Heron Hike
- Explore Pangbang for the white-bellied heron, add optional elephant safari.
Day 12: Pangbang to Gelephu
- Return to Gelephu, with stops for birdwatching.
Day 13: Departure from Gelephu
- Complete exit formalities and depart.
Your Everyday Benefit – White Bellied Heron Tour
Rate includes all three meals, both local and continental healthy cuisine.
Accommodation in three-star hotels on double/twin sharing basis.
Air-conditioned tourist-standard transportation throughout the tour.
Services of an English-speaking licensed local guide for all sightseeing.
Flexible, comprehensive tour itineraries with extensive options.
Bhutan Government Royalty fees of $100 per person per night.
Entry fees, museum fees, and historical attraction fees included.
All applicable taxes – BST 10%, Service Charge 10%.
One-time visa fee of USD 40 included.
Airport arrival and departure transfers in Bhutan.
Complementary Services
Arrival refreshment on arrival day.
One bottle of mineral water per person per day.
A small farewell gift on the day of departure.
One-time cultural program for groups exceeding 7 members.
Package Does Not Include
International Bhutan airfares and airport taxes.
Drinks, alcohol, and non-alcoholic beverages.
Guides speaking languages other than English.
Personal expenses such as tipping, laundry, porter services, telephone/fax calls, camera/video fees at monuments, medical expenses, or insurance.
Extra expenses or losses due to natural or unforeseen events beyond management control.
Any services outside Bhutan.
One-time bank transfer charge of USD 45.
Tipping for guides, drivers, etc.
$3440/-
Valid for
GROUP ABOVE 03 MEMBERS
