Best birding in Kathmandu
Led by an experienced Bird Expert/guide
TripCode: NT001

Godawari and Phulchauki, located on the southern fringe of the valley, is the unique

Striated Laughingthrush

habitat for well over 300 species of birds. Godawari is the lower Phulchauki and the Phulchauki Hill itself is the highest valley rim (2760 m). It’s beautiful forest that spread over 50 square km but the diverse species of birds that spreads from the base to the summit is amazing. Godawari forest is the best bird-watching site within Kathmandu valley and is very popular for ornithologists and birdwatchers. A perfect place to explore the forest birds, among all many are rare, endangered and globally threatened species. Time spent in this trip is extremely full feeling experience being in nature right next to crowded city of Kathmandu. 

Birdwatching is usually done at and around the Godawari forest (lower Phulchauki).  Some iconic species of birds from this area are Himalayan Cutia, Rusty-fronted Barwing, Chestnut-headed Tesia, Bay and Darjeeling Woodpeckers, Blue-napped Pitta and Blue-bearded Bee-eater etc. Other important highlights of this area includes, Minivets, Common Green Magpie, Rufus-chinned Laughingthrush, Pale Blue Flycatcher, Dark-sided Laughingthrush, Rufous-chinned Laughingthrush, Himalayan Vultures, Booted Eagle, Parrotbill etc. Come and explore with us!

Birdwatching in the area, in the past, has the record of well over 100 species. For the best result of bird watching, covering the base of the hill (Godawari) and upper part of the Phulchauki hill, two days of time is highly recommended.

Birding Tour program

• 01 Day Birding at Godawari community forest: 5-6 hours (approx) 

And for 2 days birding as:

• Day 01: Birding at Godawari community forest: 5-6 hours (approx) 
• Day 02: Birding at Phulchauki Hill (Upper half)

Note: A day normally is of 5 to 6 hours, however, can be shorter or stretched longer as per  interest, weather permitting and sighting of birds. 

Basics of Birding in Godawari 

Birdwatching in Godawari and Phulchauki Hill is done along the side of the road, as it’s easy to see and hear the birds without venturing into the forest. At the same time some accessible area can be visited if that is okay and birds are calling.

The lower section is less hilly and is great for birds as good as the upper parts of the hill, that has some rocky path to walk while birding down the hill but can surprise some rare species that are usually up there, at higher elevation.

Things to bring along

A pair of binoculars, a bird guide book,“Birds of Nepal” (guide will have one to use if you did not bring along), food and drinking water.

DEPARTURES

This tour can be arranged any day, though it’s best to avoid the Saturday (weekend in Nepal), as many people especially in dry season visit for their picnic, that can be very disturbing to the birds and birdwatchers, Though, if that is the only day you have time and very keen, it can be managed okay too.

For more details information please call us at these numbers 9771 4700866, 9801024777 (cell) or email us.