Cheesemans' Ecology Safaris
Bhutan Birdwatching & Nature Adventure: Monasteries, Mountains, and Rare Wildlife
Discover the Untouched Wilderness of Bhutan
Bhutan, the mystical “Land of the Thunder Dragon,” is a haven of towering Himalayan peaks, lush valleys, and centuries-old monasteries. For nearly three weeks, our guests embarked on an unforgettable expedition, immersing themselves in Bhutan’s spectacular birdlife, vibrant culture, and breathtaking landscapes. From the revered Black-necked Cranes of Phobjikha Valley to the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery, each day was a new chapter in a journey woven with natural wonder and spiritual heritage.
Key Experiences from the Bhutan Trip
- Spotted the rare Black-necked Cranes in the breathtaking Phobjikha Valley
- Hiked to the legendary Tiger’s Nest Monastery, perched on a dramatic cliffside
- Explored Jigme Dorji National Park, home to exotic birds and elusive wildlife
- Journeyed through Dochu La Pass for stunning Himalayan panoramas
- Witnessed the critically endangered White-bellied Heron along pristine rivers
- Experienced Bhutanese culture with visits to ancient dzongs and monasteries
- Discovered the vibrant birdlife of Thrumsingla National Park, from hornbills to pheasants
“The length of the trip gave us time to travel the whole country. The combination of birding and cultural aspects was excellent and the guides fulfilled both roles to a ‘T’.
Hishey was an excellent guide and his positive attitude was contagious. Sharing meals with his family on several occasions was also a welcoming feature.” -Candy McManiman
Setting Off for Bhutan
The adventure began with flights to Bangkok, Thailand, where guests enjoyed a restful night before their early morning departure to Bhutan. Anticipation ran high as they prepared to explore one of the world’s most pristine and remote destinations.
Paro to Thimphu
Flying into Paro International Airport was an adventure in itself. As the aircraft maneuvered through the towering Himalayas, guests marveled at the snow-capped peaks before descending into Bhutan’s lush valleys. Upon arrival, they were warmly welcomed by their expert guide, Hishey Tshering, a seasoned birder with a deep passion for Bhutan’s biodiversity.
The scenic drive to Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital, offered the first glimpses of the country’s natural beauty—rolling hills, fluttering prayer flags, and traditional Bhutanese architecture. That evening, guests settled into their cozy hotel, savoring a traditional welcome meal and a briefing on the incredible journey ahead.
Exploring Bhutan’s Natural and Cultural Wonders
Thimphu & Jigme Dorji National Park
In Thimphu, guests explored Bhutanese culture through visits to a traditional paper-making workshop and a weaving center, where artisans preserved ancient techniques. At the takin reserve, they encountered Bhutan’s national animal, a peculiar goat-antelope hybrid found only in the Eastern Himalayas.
A day trip to Jigme Dorji National Park, Bhutan’s second-largest protected area, provided thrilling birding experiences, with sightings of the Crested Kingfisher and Rufous-bellied Woodpecker. Lucky visitors even spotted the elusive Yellow-rumped Honeyguide, a species uniquely adapted to feeding on rock bee honeycombs.
Central & Eastern Bhutan – Diverse Habitats and Rich Culture
Traveling eastward, guests ventured deeper into Bhutan’s wilderness, passing through Trongsa, Bumthang, Mongar, and Zhemgang—each region offering unique landscapes and birding opportunities.
In Trongsa, they explored Bhutan’s largest dzong, an architectural masterpiece overlooking a dramatic gorge. Continuing into Bumthang, guests wandered through blue pine forests teeming with Himalayan Griffons, Rosefinches, and Rufous-breasted Accentors. Lucky observers caught glimpses of the golden langur, an endemic primate found only in Bhutan and parts of India.
In Zhemgang, the group explored pristine subtropical forests, home to the Fire-tailed Myzornis, Blue-bearded Bee-eaters, and Golden Babblers. Encounters with the black giant squirrel and yellow-throated marten added excitement to the journey. Night drives in Thrumsingla National Park provided opportunities to spot elusive nocturnal species, including the leopard cat.
Phobjikha Valley – The Sacred Land of Cranes
Paro Valley & Tiger’s Nest Monastery
The journey concluded in Paro Valley, a region rich in history and wildlife. A drive up to Chele La Pass (nearly 13,000 feet) rewarded guests with panoramic mountain views and excellent birding opportunities.
A highlight of the trip’s finale was the hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Paro Taktsang), an architectural marvel perched on a cliffside at over 10,000 feet. The trail wound through pine forests teeming with Assam macaques, offering a rare glimpse into Bhutan’s thriving ecosystem.
November 23 – 24: Farewell to Bhutan
With hearts full of memories, guests bid farewell to Bhutan, flying from Paro back to Bangkok. As the Himalayan peaks faded into the distance, they carried home stories of rare cranes, ancient monasteries, and encounters with Bhutan’s extraordinary wildlife—a journey unlike any other.
Your Next Adventure Awaits!
Bhutan and India share deep cultural and ecological connections, from the sacred Himalayan landscapes to the incredible biodiversity of their national parks. Just like Bhutan, India offers a mix of breathtaking mountain scenery, vibrant wildlife, and rich traditions. Guests who enjoyed Bhutan’s natural wonders will find India’s national parks equally captivating, with opportunities to spot tigers, elephants, and an astonishing array of bird species.