Bhutan is a place that feels almost mythic: a Himalayan kingdom of deep valleys and snow-capped peaks, prayer flags snapping in the wind, and forests that still shelter an extraordinary abundance of life. Carefully protected by a national philosophy that values happiness and conservation over economic growth, Bhutan remains one of the least disturbed and most biologically rich countries in Asia. For birders, it is nothing short of spectacular!

Our 17-day journey across Bhutan is designed to showcase the full sweep of this remarkable country, combining world-class birding with some of the most dramatic scenery and significant cultural sites in the Himalayas.

From our arrival, we quickly immerse ourselves in river valleys, mountain passes, and ancient forests. This tour offers exceptional opportunities to encounter many of Bhutan’s most sought-after birds, including the Himalayan Monal, Satyr Tragopan, Ward’s Trogon, Beautiful Nuthatch, Rufous-necked Hornbill, and Black-necked Crane. It’s possible for us to find over 300 bird species on this tour. Mammals and other wildlife add further richness to the experience, with chances to see Red Panda, Golden Langur, Asian Elephant, and a variety of Bhutan’s Himalayan mammals along the way.

Equally unforgettable are Bhutan’s cultural treasures. We’ll visit some of the country’s most beautiful Buddhist monasteries, including the breathtaking Tiger’s Nest. Along the way, we experience everyday life in Bhutan’s remote villages, walk among prayer wheels and shrines, and meet people living and thriving in one of the most extraordinary cultures in the world.

PRE-TRIP EXTENSION: Kathmandu, Nepal
Begin your Himalayan adventure in vibrant Kathmandu, where rich culture and outstanding birding come together beneath the gaze of the surrounding peaks. From the cloud forests of Phulchowki—one of Nepal’s premier birding sites—to the sacred atmosphere of Boudhanath Stupa, Pashupatinath Temple, and Durbar Square, this extension offers a seamless blend of wildlife, history, and living spiritual tradition—an inspiring and memorable gateway to Bhutan. 3 nights in Kathmandu.

Itinerary at a Glance

Day 1 - Jan 20: Arrival in Paro & Transfer to Thimphu

Arrive in Bhutan with stunning Himalayan views, then enjoy your first birding along a scenic river en route to Thimphu.

Day 2 - Jan 21: Dochu La Pass & Punakha

Bird high-elevation forests at Dochu La before visiting the spectacular Punakha Dzong in the lush river valley below.

Day 3 - Jan 22: Lawa La Pass & Phobjikha Valley

Search mountain forests for Himalayan specialties, then witness wintering Black-necked Cranes in the beautiful Phobjikha Valley.

Day 4 - Jan 23: Pele La Pass to Bumthang

Bird scenic mountain passes before descending into the picturesque Bumthang Valley.

Day 5 - Jan 24: Thrumshing La & Sengor Valley

Ascend to one of the highest passes of the tour, birding alpine and conifer forests along the way.

Day 6 - Jan 25: Thrumshing La National Park

Explore one of Asia’s premier birding regions, rich with Eastern Himalayan wildlife.

Day 7 - Jan 26: Yongkola to Bumthang

Morning birding in lush forests before returning toward Bumthang with scenic stops en route.

Day 8 - Jan 27: Tharpaling Monastery & Trongsa

Bird near Tharpaling Monastery, then explore the historic and architecturally stunning Trongsa Dzong.

Day 9 - Jan 28: Trongsa to Tingtibi

Descend through changing elevations, birding diverse habitats as we travel toward the subtropics.

Day 10 - Jan 29: Royal Manas National Park

Explore biodiverse subtropical forests in one of Bhutan’s richest wildlife areas.

Day 11 - Jan 30: Tingtibi to Gelephu

Continue into the tropical lowlands, birding along forested valleys and scenic mountain roads.

Day 12 - Jan 31: Tropical Forests of Gelephu

Spend the day birding lush lowland forests and wetlands near the Indian border.

Day 13 - Feb 1: Gelephu to Tsirang

Travel through subtropical forests and river valleys, with excellent birding along the way.

Day 14 - Feb 2: Sunkosh Valley to Punakha

Bird scenic river valleys before returning to the Punakha region.

Day 15 - Feb 3: Punakha to Paro

Morning forest birding, then transfer back to Paro, completing our circuit across Bhutan.

Day 16 - Feb 4: Tiger’s Nest Monastery

Hike to the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery for a memorable blend of culture, scenery, and birding.

Day 17 - Feb 5: Departures

Transfer to Paro Airport for onward flights home.

SINGLE SUPPLEMENT: $1,200

START DATE: Jan 20, 2027

DURATION: 17 days

GROUP SIZE: Up to 12

TRIP FOCUS: Birding and Wildlife

ACTIVITY LEVEL: Moderate

WHAT'S INCLUDED

• Double-occupancy lodging
• Ground transportation
• Breakfasts, lunches, and most dinners
• Excursions and park fees
• Guiding services

YOUR GUIDES

Ivan Phillipsen, Co-owner of Wild Latitudes, is a passionate naturalist with a background in scientific research. He holds an M.S. in biology and a Ph.D. in zoology. Natural history is Ivan’s true passion and what he is most excited to teach to others. Although he is fascinated by just about every aspect of nature, Ivan is particularly fond of birds, reptiles, amphibians, insects, plants, and geology. Everything is interconnected in nature and Ivan takes a holistic approach when teaching about the natural world.

David Jaffe has been guiding and teaching since 1991. His childhood interest in nature eventually led him to Evergreen State College, WA where he earned a B.S. in Environmental Studies and Geology. Later, he earned a M.S. in Applied Ecology from the University of Vermont.

David has led backcountry trips in Denali National Park, learned from students in Kentucky, and gained great insights while hitchhiking home from work in Yosemite National Park. He has experience as a naturalist in many of the lower 48 states and Baja California. David worked as a divemaster in Australia, Costa Rica, and India. He assisted with the establishment of a marine protected area off the coast of Madagascar and researched birds in Canada and South America. His understanding, love and enthusiasm about the natural world continues to grow.