Nepal Winter Birding Terai Tour

15-day Nepal Bird-Watching tour covering Kathmandu, Bardia, Chitwan & Koshi Tappu with expert birding naturalists, jungle safari, river rafting, canoeing & exclusive wildlife photography opportunities.

Country

Nepal

Duration

15 Days

Difficulty

Moderate

Trip Type

Bird Watching Tour

Max Altitude

2100m/6889ft

Best Season

Dec-Mar

Accomodation

3***hotel twin sharing bed basis during the Tour.

Meals

All meals (Lunch , Dinner and Breakfast) with Cup of Tea/Coffee during the Tour.

Start/End Point

Kathmandu

Highlights & Overview

Guided bird-watching in Nepal’s top birding hotspots
Explore Godavari Botanical Garden & Nagarjun Forest
Fly to Nepalgunj & enter Bardia National Park wilderness
Jeep Safari & Karnali River birding boat ride
Spot Gangetic dolphins & crocodiles
Full-day wildlife safari in Chitwan National Park
Canoeing & ox-cart jungle sunset ride
Scenic countryside drive to Koshi Tappu Wetland Sanctuary
Rafting on Koshi River to observe migratory & wetland birds
Visit Koshi Barrage, a major bird-migration stopover
Chance to spot 900+ rare bird species
Perfect for wildlife photographers & naturalists
Our 12-day Nepal Bird Watching & Wildlife Photography Tour is designed for passionate birders, nature lovers, and wildlife photographers who wish to explore Nepal’s richest biodiversity hotspots. From the subtropical jungles of Bardia National Park to the wetlands of Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve and the lush forested hills around Kathmandu, this expedition offers exceptional opportunities to spot both resident and migratory birds, along with iconic wildlife species.
Nepal is home to 900+ species of birds, nearly 10% of the world’s bird species. This journey immerses you in diverse habitats — riverbanks, grasslands, riverine forests, wetlands, and dense tropical jungles — increasing your chances of rare sightings like Bengal Florican, Sarus Crane, Great Hornbill, Swamp Francolin, and various raptors. Alongside birds, you may encounter Royal Bengal Tigers, Asian Elephants, One-Horned Rhinos, Gharials, Marsh Crocodiles, otters, Gangetic dolphins, and a variety of deer species.
With expert naturalist guides, early-morning excursions, river-safaris, canoe rides, jeep safaris, and peaceful nature walks, this tour balances adventure and learning. Each day is crafted to maximize rich wildlife exposure, photography opportunities, and immersive experiences within Nepal’s protected natural world. The tour also brings cultural insights through interactions with local villagers, showcasing traditional lifestyles near the national parks.
This trip is perfect for anyone passionate about bird photography, wildlife research, eco-tourism, and nature-based adventure travel. Whether you are a seasoned birder or a curious traveler, this unforgettable journey across Nepal’s top birding regions guarantees rare sightings, serene wilderness experiences, and inspiring moments in the heart of Asia’s finest jungles.

Nepal Winter Birding Terai Tour Itinerary

Upon your arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, our representative will greet you with a warm Nepali welcome and assist with comfortable hotel transfer. After check-in, you can relax or stroll around the lively Thamel streets. Depending on flight time, we may take you for a welcome dinner featuring traditional Nepali cuisine, cultural music, and ethnic dance performances, a wonderful introduction to Nepal’s cultural richness and hospitality. Overnight in Kathmandu.

Max Altitude

1400m/4593ft

Accomodation

Hotel

Meals

Breakfast

After breakfast, we begin our first bird-watching adventure in Godavari Botanical Garden, one of the richest birding pockets near Kathmandu, known for species like the Spotted Forktail, Rufous-gorgeted Flycatcher, Yellow-browed Warbler, and Great Barbet. Later, we head to Nagarjun Forest, a protected zone under Shivapuri National Park. The forest hosts Himalayan Cutia, Kalij Pheasant, Eurasian Jay, woodpeckers, and raptors. Enjoy scenic walking trails, lush greenery, and peaceful bird-song filled surroundings. Return to Kathmandu for overnight stay.

Max Altitude

2100m/6889ft

Accomodation

Hotel

Meals

Lunch, Dinner, Breakfast

Early morning transfer to the airport for a scenic flight to Nepalgunj, the gateway to Nepal’s wild western jungles. From Nepalgunj, we drive through rural farmland and Tharu villages to reach Bardia National Park, famous for Bengal tigers, elephants, gharials, and diverse bird species. After check-in at your jungle resort, enjoy a relaxed evening with a short jungle briefing and traditional Tharu hospitality. Overnight in Bardia.

Max Altitude

150m/492ft

Accomodation

Hotel

Meals

Lunch, Dinner, Breakfast

Begin your day with a half-day jeep safari deep into Bardia’s pristine forest — perfect for spotting endangered animals including Asiatic elephants, spotted deer, swamp deer, and possibly the majestic Royal Bengal Tiger. After lunch, enjoy a guided bird-watching walk along river banks and forest edges. Expect to encounter species like the White-rumped Vulture, Asian Paradise Flycatcher, Stork-billed Kingfisher, and Crested Serpent Eagle. Overnight in Bardia.

Max Altitude

150m/492ft

Accomodation

Hotel

Meals

Lunch, Dinner, Breakfast

Today is a magical river-based bird-watching day. We take a silent boat ride on the Karnali River, enjoying peaceful waters while spotting riverine birds such as Ruddy Shelduck, River Lapwing, Black-bellied Tern, and Purple Heron. With luck, witness Gangetic Dolphins surfacing in the river and Mugger crocodiles on riverbanks. Enjoy a nature-immersed afternoon walking and photographing stunning riverside landscapes. Overnight in Bardia.

Max Altitude

150m/492ft

Accomodation

Hotel

Meals

Lunch, Dinner, Breakfast

This morning is dedicated to bird-watching in community forests around Bardia — a unique ecosystem full of woodpeckers, owls, barbets, sunbirds, and jungle warblers. These forests also host shy mammals like civets and jungle cats. In the afternoon, interact with local Tharu communities to learn about their sustainable coexistence with wildlife. Overnight in Bardia.

Max Altitude

150m/492ft

Accomodation

Hotel

Meals

Lunch, Dinner, Breakfast

After breakfast, drive across Nepal’s countryside to Chitwan National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for one-horned rhinos and rich wetlands. Upon arrival, enjoy a refreshing welcome drink, relax at your jungle lodge, and explore the serene riverside. Evening cultural show or village walk. Overnight in Chitwan.

Max Altitude

200m/656ft

Accomodation

Hotel

Meals

Lunch, Dinner, Breakfast

A full-day immersive jungle adventure awaits. Morning bird walk followed by jeep safari to encounter rhinos, gaur, deer species, and possibly tigers. Chitwan is home to 600+ bird species including Giant Hornbill, Bengal Florican, and various storks and eagles. Enjoy golden hour photography in riverine grasslands. Overnight in Chitwan.

Max Altitude

200m/656ft

Accomodation

Hotel

Meals

Lunch, Dinner, Breakfast

Early morning canoe ride along the Rapti River for sightings of Kingfishers, egrets, darters, and waterfowl. Continue with a guided jungle walk for deep bird and wildlife spotting. Evening ox-cart village excursion or nature sunset walk. Overnight in Chitwan.

Max Altitude

200m/656ft

Accomodation

Hotel

Meals

Lunch, Dinner, Breakfast

After breakfast, drive to the stunning wetlands of Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve, paradise for migratory birds and wetland species. Settle into your riverside eco-camp, rest, and prepare for the next day’s exploration. Overnight in Koshi Tappu.

Max Altitude

75m/246ft

Accomodation

Hotel

Meals

Lunch, Dinner, Breakfast

Enjoy soft rafting on Koshi River, ideal for photography and spotting migratory birds like the Bar-headed Goose, Ruddy Shelduck, Black-necked Stork, and Osprey. The peaceful river journey allows quiet observation and beautiful water reflections. Overnight in Koshi Tappu.

Max Altitude

75m/246ft

Accomodation

Hotel

Meals

Lunch, Dinner, Breakfast

Morning drive to Koshi Barrage, an internationally known bird migration hotspot. Capture last-day sightings and enjoy peaceful wetland scenery. Later, transfer for onward travel or optional extension to Kathmandu.

Max Altitude

75m/246ft

Accomodation

Hotel

Meals

Lunch, Dinner, Breakfast

Today is our final morning immersed in the peaceful wetlands of Koshi Tappu. We rise early to take advantage of the golden hours, when bird activity is at its peak. Enjoy a relaxed but rewarding morning bird-watching walk with our expert naturalist along riverbanks, marshlands, and grass fields. This final session is a wonderful chance to photograph and observe wetland species like herons, storks, egrets, ibises, and colorful kingfishers as they feed in the soft light of dawn. It is also common to spot raptors soaring above the plains, while shy marsh birds emerge from reeds.
After the final guided birding session, return to the lodge for breakfast and packing. We then drive to the airport for a scenic flight back to Kathmandu, enjoying aerial views of the Himalayan foothills and river systems. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel in Kathmandu. The evening is yours to relax, enjoy a peaceful dinner, stroll around Thamel’s craft shops, or simply unwind after days in the wilderness. Overnight in Kathmandu.

Max Altitude

1400m/4593ft

Accomodation

Hotel

Meals

Lunch, Dinner, Breakfast

Today we immerse ourselves in culture and heritage. After breakfast, embark on a half-day guided Kathmandu Valley cultural sightseeing tour. Depending on the time and preference, we may visit iconic UNESCO World Heritage sites such as:
  • Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple) — panoramic views & sacred Buddhist shrine
  • Kathmandu Durbar Square — ancient royal palace, temples & living history
  • Pashupatinath Temple — Nepal’s most sacred Hindu temple by the holy Bagmati River
  • Boudhanath Stupa — the peaceful Buddhist spiritual hub with Tibetan monasteries
These sacred landmarks reveal Nepal’s ancient traditions, architecture, and spiritual heritage. The afternoon is free for souvenir shopping, photography walks, or café relaxation. Kathmandu’s bustling alleys offer hand-crafted jewelry, pashmina shawls, prayer flags, Nepali spices, Thangka paintings, and organic tea — perfect reminders of your journey.
Optionally, enjoy a traditional Nepali farewell dinner with cultural music and dance performances to celebrate the completion of your bird-watching adventure. Overnight in Kathmandu.

Max Altitude

1400m/4593ft

Accomodation

Hotel

Meals

Lunch, Dinner, Breakfast

After an unforgettable wildlife and birding expedition across Nepal, it is time to say goodbye. Depending on your flight schedule, enjoy a relaxed breakfast and final stroll before we transfer you to Tribhuvan International Airport in a private vehicle. Our team will assist with luggage and departure formalities.
We bid you farewell with warm good wishes and hope the memories of Nepal’s pristine jungles, rare birds, and warm hospitality stay with you forever. Should you wish to explore more of Nepal — from Himalayan treks to cultural routes, wildlife safaris, and photography expeditions — we are always here to plan your next adventure. Safe travels and see you again!

Max Altitude

1400m/4593ft

Accomodation

Hotel

Meals

Lunch, Dinner, Breakfast

Price Includes

Airport pick-up & drop-off in Kathmandu by private tourist vehicle
Domestic flight: Kathmandu ➝ Nepalgunj & Nepalgunj ➝ Kathmandu
Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu on Bed & Breakfast basis
Hotel/Resort accommodation in Bardiya, Chitwan & Koshi Tappu on full-board meal plan (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner included)
Professional birding naturalist guide throughout the trip
National Park & Conservation Area entry fees
Private ground transportation as per itinerary
Farewell cultural dinner in Kathmandu
All government taxes & official service charges

Price Doesn't Include

International airfare & airport taxes
Nepal visa fees
Lunch & dinner in Kathmandu
Entrance fees for temples & heritage sites during Kathmandu sightseeing
Personal expenses:
Laundry, phone calls, snacks, drinks, bottled/boiled water, souvenirs, etc.
Alcoholic beverages
Travel insurance (mandatory — should cover medical & evacuation)
Tips for guide & driver (customary, optional but appreciated)
Any services not mentioned under “Includes”

Packing Lists

Cloathing

Lightweight breathable shirts & trousers
Fleece jacket / warm layer for mornings
Waterproof jacket & quick-dry pants
Comfortable trekking shoes
Sun hat & warm cap
Lightweight gloves
Extra socks & undergarments

Gears

Binoculars (8x42 or 10x42 recommended)
Telephoto camera lens (200mm+)
Tripod / monopod
Bird field guide / notebook
Flashlight or headlamp
Backpack rain cover

Personal Items

Sunscreen & lip balm
Personal medications
Water bottle & purification tablets
Toiletries & quick-dry towel
Power bank & chargers
Insect repellent

Other Items You Can Bring

Travel documents & permits
Lightweight snacks
Sunglasses & mask
Wet wipes & hand sanitizer

Trip Video

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Nepal Winter Birding Terai Tour Trek Questions

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