July 28, 2025
Nepal’s remarkable altitudinal and ecological diversity make it a true birdwatcher’s paradise. With over 900 species recorded, ranging from tropical lowlands to alpine peaks, bird enthusiasts have incredible opportunities to observe both endemic and migratory birds across the country’s varied protected areas.
This guide highlights 15 of the most sought-after bird species and where to find them—from the Terai wetlands to the high Himalayan forests.
1. Impeyan Monal (Danphe)
Nepal’s National Bird
- Where to See: Annapurna Conservation Area, Langtang National Park, Manang Valley, Upper Mustang
- Habitat: Alpine and subalpine forests (3,000–4,500 m)
This dazzling pheasant is famed for its vibrant plumage and is a top target for high-altitude birdwatchers.
2. Spiny Babbler
- Where to See: Mid-hill forests around Kathmandu Valley, Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park
- Habitat: Shrubby mid-hill scrub and forests
Nepal’s only endemic bird species, it’s shy but rewarding for those who seek it.
3. Great Hornbill
- Where to See: Eastern Nepal forests, Kanchenjunga Conservation Area, Ilam
- Habitat: Subtropical and tropical broadleaf forests
One of the largest hornbills, its impressive casque and loud calls mark it as a memorable sight.
4. Blood Pheasant
- Where to See: Langtang National Park, Sagarmatha National Park, Kanchenjunga Conservation Area
- Habitat: Rhododendron and coniferous forests at high altitudes (3,000–4,500 m)
Known for its rich chestnut plumage and elusive behavior.
5. White-throated Kingfisher
- Where to See: Widely across lowland wetlands and rivers including Chitwan, Bardia, Koshi Tappu, and Taudaha (Kathmandu)
- Habitat: Freshwater wetlands, rivers, and lakes
A colorful and conspicuous kingfisher commonly seen perched near water bodies.
6. Scarlet Minivet
- Where to See: Mid-hill forests of Annapurna, Langtang, and Kanchenjunga
- Habitat: Broadleaf forests and forest edges
Its brilliant red and black plumage make it an easy find in suitable habitats.
7. Lesser Florican
- Where to See: Terai grasslands of Chitwan and Bardia during breeding season (April–June)
- Habitat: Open grasslands and floodplains
A rare and sought-after species known for spectacular mating displays.
8. Himalayan Griffon Vulture
- Where to See: High mountain areas including Annapurna, Langtang, and Sagarmatha
- Habitat: Alpine and subalpine cliffs
These large scavengers soar over rugged terrain and are vital to ecosystem health.
9. Bar-headed Goose
- Where to See: Wetlands and floodplains such as Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve, Chitwan, and Shuklaphanta during winter months
- Habitat: Freshwater wetlands
Famous for its high-altitude migratory flights across the Himalayas.
10. Oriental Pied Hornbill
- Where to See: Terai forests in Chitwan, Bardia, and Shuklaphanta
- Habitat: Subtropical forests and riverine areas
Notable for its loud calls and striking bill.
11. Black-necked Crane
- Where to See: Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve and surrounding wetlands
- Habitat: High-altitude wetlands (2,500–4,000 m)
An endangered migratory species that winters in Nepal’s eastern wetlands.
12. Rufous-necked Hornbill
- Where to See: Kanchenjunga Conservation Area and eastern forests
- Habitat: Subtropical broadleaf forests
Known for its colorful neck and important seed dispersal role.
13. Satyr Tragopan
- Where to See: Annapurna and Langtang National Parks
- Habitat: High-altitude rhododendron and oak forests
A rare and elusive pheasant prized by birders.
14. Red-billed Blue Magpie
- Where to See: Mid-hills around Kathmandu, Langtang, and Annapurna
- Habitat: Forest edges and gardens
Recognizable by its long tail and striking blue feathers.
15. Kalij Pheasant
- Where to See: Forested mid-hills of Langtang, Annapurna, and Shivapuri
- Habitat: Broadleaf forests and scrub
A beautiful pheasant with metallic green and blue plumage.
Best Birdwatching Spots in Nepal
| Protected Area | Key Bird Species to Watch For |
|---|---|
| Chitwan National Park | Oriental Pied Hornbill, White-throated Kingfisher, Lesser Florican |
| Bardia National Park | Lesser Florican, Oriental Pied Hornbill, White-throated Kingfisher |
| Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve | Bar-headed Goose, Black-necked Crane, White-throated Kingfisher |
| Sagarmatha National Park | Blood Pheasant, Himalayan Griffon Vulture |
| Langtang National Park | Impeyan Monal, Blood Pheasant, Satyr Tragopan, Red-billed Blue Magpie |
| Annapurna Conservation Area | Impeyan Monal, Scarlet Minivet, Satyr Tragopan, Kalij Pheasant |
| Kanchenjunga Conservation Area | Great Hornbill, Rufous-necked Hornbill, Impeyan Monal |
| Shuklaphanta National Park | Bar-headed Goose, Oriental Pied Hornbill |
| Kathmandu Valley & Taudaha Lake | Spiny Babbler, Red-billed Blue Magpie, White-throated Kingfisher |
Birdwatching Tips
- Best Seasons: Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) offer the best bird activity and visibility.
- Guides: Hiring local birding guides enriches the experience with expert spotting and local knowledge.
- Equipment: Bring binoculars, a camera with zoom, and a bird field guide app or book.
- Ethics: Maintain distance, avoid loud noises, and do not disturb nests or habitats.
Birdwatching in Nepal: At a Glance
| Species | Typical Habitat | Best Locations |
|---|---|---|
| Impeyan Monal | Alpine/Subalpine forests | Annapurna, Langtang, Manang, Mustang |
| Spiny Babbler | Mid-hill scrub | Kathmandu Valley, Shivapuri |
| Great Hornbill | Subtropical forests | Kanchenjunga, Eastern Nepal |
| Blood Pheasant | Rhododendron forests | Sagarmatha, Langtang, Kanchenjunga |
| White-throated Kingfisher | Wetlands/rivers | Terai parks, Kathmandu wetlands |
| Lesser Florican | Grasslands | Chitwan, Bardia |
| Black-necked Crane | High-altitude wetlands | Koshi Tappu |
| Oriental Pied Hornbill | Terai forests | Chitwan, Bardia, Shuklaphanta |