Quick answer
Chitwan has more than 500 bird species, and early morning is the best time to see them. Migrants are here from November to February, and March and April bring breeding plumage. Our birdwatching tours start from $25 per person.
Birdwatching at a glance
- Species: more than 500
- Best time of day: early morning
- Migrants: November to February
- Breeding plumage: March and April
- Price: from $25 per person
- Difficulty: easy, at a gentle pace, suitable for beginners and families
Birds you might see
- Hornbills: giant hornbill and Oriental pied hornbill in the tall forest canopy.
- Grassland birds: the rare, critically endangered Bengal florican, plus prinias, bushchats and pipits.
- River birds: storks, egrets, cormorants, the Oriental darter and kingfishers along the Rapti.
- Raptors: ospreys, eagles, harriers and vultures over the grassland and water.
- Bee-eaters and rollers: chestnut-headed bee-eaters and Indian rollers in bright blue and green.
- Doves and pigeons: emerald doves and green pigeons feeding quietly in the forest understorey.
Best birdwatching spots near Sauraha
- Rapti river: best from a quiet canoe ride.
- Forest and grassland inside the park: on a guided walk or jeep safari.
- Bishazari Lake: a wetland alive with birds, reached on a half-day cycling trip.
Best season for birdwatching
November to February brings migrant birds, and March and April bring breeding plumage. Early morning is best in every season. See the month-by-month guide.
How our birding tour works
You go out in the early morning with a licensed naturalist guide at a gentle pace. Binoculars and a field checklist are available on request. A park permit is needed for each day inside the park. See the bird watching tour.
Local tip
Bring your own binoculars if you have them, wear neutral colours and keep your voice low. The quieter you are, the more you see.
Frequently asked questions
How many bird species are there in Chitwan?
More than 500 species have been recorded in and around Chitwan National Park.
What is the best time for birdwatching in Chitwan?
Early morning, and November to February for migrants, with breeding plumage in March and April.
How much does a birdwatching tour in Chitwan cost?
Our birdwatching tours start from $25 per person. A park permit is needed for each day inside the park.
Do I need to be an expert to join a birding tour?
No. The pace is easy and suitable for beginners and families, and your guide helps with identification.
Can I go birdwatching without entering the park?
Yes. The Rapti riverbank and Bishazari Lake are outside the park and good for birds.
