Birding in Bhutan

March 17 – April 4, 2015

With Elissa Landre

Bhutan is one of our planet's great hot spots of biodiversity and one of the more pristine landscapes to be found

anywhere. Lying in the heart of the eastern Himalayas and spanning almost 24,000 feet of altitude, 60 percent of

the country remains cloaked in primeval forest from subtropical deciduous forests to alpine krummholz. Although

it is a temperate-zone country with an area about the size of Vermont and New Hampshire combined, Bhutan a

wide variety of bird species and 2,000 species of flowering plants, including 50 rhododendrons. We have planned a

wonderful tour of the natural and cultural sites of this delightful country – we hope that you can join us!

Bhutan

March 17- April 4, 2015

Travel with the Massachusetts Audubon Society

208 South Great Road, Lincoln, MA 01773

800-289-9504

DAY-TO-DAY ITINERARY___________________________________________________________

Day 1: Tuesday, March 17 – Arrive Delhi after midday

After passing through Immigration and Customs, we will meet our Indian guide and transfer to the hotel.

Overnight at The Uppal Hotel. (Dinner)

Day 2: Wednesday, March 18 – Delhi, India

In the morning we will take the opportunity to go birding at the Sultanpur Jheel National Park. This

wetland reserve is a great place to see a variety of waders including Eurasian Spoonbill, Painted Stork,

and Black-winged Stilt, as well as woodland species such as Green Bee-eater, Red-vented Bulbul, and

Black Kite. With luck, we could also see a Nilgai, a member of the antelope family. Overnight at The

Uppal Hotel (B, L, D).

Day 3: Thursday, March 19 – Fly from Delhi to Guwahati

Today is an exciting travel day. We will fly from Delhi to Guwahati by Spice Jet 885, depart Delhi at

0555 hrs, arrive Guwahati, the capital of Assam, at 0820 hrs. From here we will drive north, crossing the

mighty Brahmaputra, to the border of Bhutan, and then continue north to Samdrum Jonkhar. Overnight

at hotel TLT or Tashi Gasel Lodge (B, L, D).

Day 4: Friday, March 20 – Samdrup Jonkhar to Morong

Continuing north, it will be roadside birding looking for Crested Goshawk, Mountain Imperial Pigeon,

Grey-bellied and Asian Emerald Cuckoos, Red-headed Trogon, Greater Yellownape, Golden-throated

Barbet, Long-tailed Broadbill, Grey-backed Shrike, Collared Treepie, Orange-headed Thrush, Small

Niltava, Grey-headed Flycatcher, Green-backed Tit, White-browed Scimitar-babbler, Nepal Fulvetta,

Rufous Sibia, and rare Rufous-headed Parrotbill. Overnight at tented camp (B, L, D).

Day 5: Saturday, March 21 – Morong to Tashigang

Today we will drive and bird our way northward to Tashigang, gradually gaining altitude, moving from

subtropical forest into a broad-leaved forest. We shall pass the Tashigang Dzong, built in 1659, and

superbly located on a spur overhanging the river. Overnight at Rangjung Guest House or similar (B, L,

D).

Day 6: Sunday, March 22 – Tashigang to

Lower Limithang

We’ll pass through a pine forest, cornfields, and

banana groves as we leave Tashigang. After crossing

the Korila at 8000 feet, we will be traveling through a

wonderful mixed broad-leafed evergreen forest

where we are likely to see a number of species such

as the rarely seen Black-tailed Crake, Siberian

Stonechat, and Crested and Little Buntings. The next

few days will be spent exploring this famous area.

Birdwatchers know the magnificent stretch of habitat

that we will explore today and tomorrow as the

Limithang Road. Overnight at tented camp (B, L, D).

Bhutan

March 17- April 4, 2015

Travel with the Massachusetts Audubon Society

208 South Great Road, Lincoln, MA 01773

800-289-9504

Days 7-8: Monday, March 23 & Tuesday, March 24 – Lower Limithang to Yongkola

After early tea/coffee, we will set out to explore, watching the changes in vegetation and birdlife as we

go. Because of Bhutan’s dynamic altitudinal, as well as latitudinal, migration patterns, one never knows

what one is going to find. However, some of today’s watch birds include: Mountain Hawk-Eagle, White-

throated Needletail (one of the fastest birds in the world), Alpine Accentor, Orange-flanked and Golden

Bush Robins, the incomparable Fire-tailed Myzornis, a number of warbler species including Golden-

spectacled and Ashy-throated, six or more species of tits, up to three treecreepers, White-tailed

Nuthatch, Rufous-gorgeted Flycatcher, Rufous-bellied Niltava, Chestnut-crowned Laughingthrush, with

luck, a parrotbill or two, a variety of charmingly named babblers (yuhinas, fulvettas, minlas, and sibias),

White-winged Grosbeak, and perhaps a rosefinch or two. Yoncola, tented camp (B, L, D).

Day 9-10: Wednesday, March 25 & Thursday, March 26 – Yongkola to Sengor

The forests here are a mixture of spruce, hemlock, and fir with birds including Black-faced, Chestnut-

crowned, and Spotted Laughingthrushes, White-browed Bush Robin, Rusty-flanked Treecreeper, Tibetan

Serin that flock in large groups, Red Crossbill, Golden-naped Finch, Slender-billed Scimitar Babbler, and

Bar-winged Wren-Babbler. Satyr Tragopan is also found on slopes. Overnight at tented camp (B, L, D).

Day 11: Friday, March 27 – Sengor to Bumthang

via Ura

The road from Sengor to Ura is a candidate for the most

beautiful passage in the world with mountains, mists,

waterfalls, masses of rhododendrons, and towering trees

creating dramatic new effects around every corner (of

which there are many). Highway signs warn us to spare

any Red Pandas we encounter. So, we should watch the

tree tops where these smaller relatives of the Giant Panda

typically curl up to sleep during the day. This is also Blood

Pheasant country and offers our best chance of finding this

bizarrely-plumaged Himalayan endemic. We will climb

through Thrumsing La (pass at 12,4000 the highest point on our trip) and then continue through rich

forest. Overnight at Jakar (Bumthang) at Gongkhar Lodge or similar (B, L, D).

Day 12: Saturday, March 28 – Visit the Monasteries of Bhumthang valley

We will do a bit of birding in an enchanting mossy forest at a high pass, and then drop down to the

“perfect” Bhutanese village of Ura. We will drive back to our hotel in Jakar (Bumthang) at Gongkhar

Lodge or similar (B, L, D).

Day 13: Sunday, March 29 – Bumthang to Trongsa

Bumthang, as the four valleys of this region are known, is not only Bhutan’s geographical heartland, but

its spiritual and historical heartland as well. There are more temples, monasteries, and shrines

concentrated in these valleys than anywhere else in the Buddhist Himalaya. Time will be spent here to

visit a few select sites. For example, Jampey Lhakhang, which dates from the 7th century, is said to have

been built to subdue a demoness who was threatening Buddhism. We will also see the Kurje Lhakhang

complex, which consists of three exquisite temples surrounded by a wall of stone chortens. All of

Bhutan’s past kings were cremated here and the main temple is erected in a palace. We will not, of

course, neglect interesting birds, butterflies, or plants that we encounter as we explore. A variety of raptors can often be seen over the valley.

Bhutan

March 17- April 4, 2015

Travel with the Massachusetts Audubon Society

208 South Great Road, Lincoln, MA 01773

800-289-9504

We will drive to Trongsa, located in central Bhutan. Trongsa holds one of the most singularly

magnificent dzongs in the entire kingdom. Hanging above Mangde Chhu, the Trongsa Dzong is a

spectacular sight. Overnight at hotel Puenzhi or Yangkhill or similar (B, L, D).

Day 14: Monday, March 30 – Trongsa to Punakha

Our journey today crosses over the Black Mountains dividing western from central Bhutan. Some of the

birds we will search for include Great Parrotbill, which prefers stands of rhododendron and bamboo,

the striking Golden-breasted Fulvetta, Golden Bush Robin, Himalayan Vulture soaring overhead in the

warm thermals, Long-tailed Minivet, the skulky Grey-sided Bush Warbler in thick grasses, White-winged

Grosbeak, and the very uncommon Brown Bullfinch.

En route, the valley widens, affording us dramatic views of the Wangdue Phodrang Dzong founded in

1632, which is stretched along a ridge above the river with commanding views of the valley below. We

will arrive late in the afternoon in Punakha. Overnight at hotel Zangto Pelri or similar (B, L, D).

Day 15: Tuesday, March 31 – Full Day visit to Tashitang Valley This morning we will bird the lovely broad-leaved subtropical

forest along the main road that parallels the swift Mo Chu

River. Unique clattering Bailey bridges composed of wood

panels pinned together allow us to cross the river at various

points. Some species to be found along this route include the

rare White-bellied Heron, Tawny Fish Owl, Himalayan Swiftlet

buzzing overhead, Crested Kingfisher, ever-vocal Great and

Golden-throated Barbets, Rufous Woodpecker, Short-billed

Minivet that often perch for long periods before sallying insects

in midair, Bar-winged Flycatcher-Shrike, Tickell’s Leaf Warbler,

Small Niltava, Hodgson’s Redstart, Chestnut-bellied Nuthatch

that pick through the masses of epiphytes for insects, Slender-

billed Oriole, and Chestnut-tailed Starling.

We will drive past the impressive Punakha Dzong. Until the time of the second king, it served as the seat

of the Bhutanese government. Overnight at hotel Zangto Pelri or similar (B, L, D).

Bhutan

March 17- April 4, 2015

Travel with the Massachusetts Audubon Society

208 South Great Road, Lincoln, MA 01773

800-289-9504

Day 16: Wednesday, April 1 – Punakha to Thimphu

After an early start, we will make for the famed high mountain pass of Dochu La. Leaving the almost

tropical Punakha Valley at 4,000 feet, our route will take us up through mixed evergreen and broad-

leaved forests to the pass at 10,000 feet. Specialties that occur in this area include Rufous-bellied

Woodpecker, Black-winged Cuckooshrike, Grey-winged Blackbird, the tiny Chestnut-headed Tesia, the

intensely-colored Ultramarine Flycatcher, Hoary-throated Barwing, Dark-rumped Rosefinch, the elusive

but exquisite Fire-capped Tit, and the radiant Fire-tailed Myzornis. If the day is clear, the lofty pass of

Dochu La affords outstanding views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks, some of which top 24,000 feet.

We will enjoy the visual splendor of the pass littered with prayer flags before descending towards our

hotel located in the center of Thimphu. The impressive Trashi Chhoe Dzong was built traditionally

without nails or the use of written plans and will be visible soon after we arrive in the area. Overnight at

hotel Galingkha or Jumolhari or similar (B, L, D).

Day 17: Thursday, April 2 – Thimphu to Paro

We will bird around Thimphu in the morning and then

drive back to Paro to visit the festival. Here, it will be

another wonderful adventure as we walk through a

beautiful stretch of the Blue Pine forest that clothes the

Paro Valley. Our destination is a viewpoint facing the

Tiger’s Nest monastery, perched high on the cliffs above.

The monastery is one of Bhutan’s most famous Buddhist

shrines. Those who wish can walk back to the trailhead

birding along the way. The relatively open pine-oak habitat

is the perfect setting to review some of the country’s

common land birds. Overnight at hotel Khangkhu or

Phuensum Jurmey or similar (B, L, D).

Bhutan

March 17- April 4, 2015

Travel with the Massachusetts Audubon Society

208 South Great Road, Lincoln, MA 01773

800-289-9504

Day 18: Friday, April 3 – Full Day visit to Chele La

This morning we will have an early start in order to make the most of the great birding opportunities in

the forests above the hills of Paro to Chele La, where we’ll search for pheasants. Chele La is one of the

best places to see Himalayan Monal. Additional pheasants to be seen this morning are Blood and Kalij

Pheasants, while other species possible include the Yellow-billed Blue Magpie, Darjeeling Woodpecker,

Himalayan White-browed Rosefinch, the bright Red-headed Bullfinch, Collared Grosbeak, and Spotted

Laughingthrush. In the late afternoon, we will search for the secretive Black-tailed Crake, Rosy Pipit, and

one of the most sought after shorebirds - the Ibisbill. On return to Paro, time permitting, we will visit

the Paro Dzong. Overnight at hotel Khangkhu or Phuentsok Purmev (B, L, D).

Day 19: Saturday, April 4 – Flight from Paro, Bhutan to Delhi, India

After breakfast we will fly out of the valley. This flight provides some of the most dramatic scenery of

any scheduled flight in the world – on a clear day, you can gaze over the summit of Mount Everest and

other high Himalayan peaks. (Board flight KB 204 (0800 hrs / 1045 hrs) to Delhi). On arrival, transfer to

hotel The Uppal for day use. We will depart after dinner for the airport and our flights home (B, L, D).

Bhutan Tour Terms and Conditions___________________________________________________

PRICE: $7800 per person, double occupancy. Single Supplement: $1100 Singles are limited.

Tour length 19 days.

Price Includes:

All meals and accommodations as shown in the itinerary

Services of Mass Audubon naturalist and local guides

Flights from Delhi –Gauhati -Paro - Delhi

All tips and gratuities

Bhutan visa fees , Bhutan taxes, and Bhutan departure tax

Mineral water in coach and during meals

All excursions, entrance fees

Extensive trip preparation notes

Medical Evacuation coverage

Price Excludes:

International airfare between U.S. and India

Passport and India visa fees;

Trip cancellation insurance

Excess baggage charges

Items of a personal nature, including beverages, laundry, internet and telephone fees; other items not

specifically mentioned as included.

TRAVEL DOCUMENTS: A U.S. Passport valid for at least 6 months beyond the trip’s departure date is

required. Visas are required for both Bhutan and India. Details for application will be sent to registered travelers.

Please attach to the registration form (and send in with your deposit) a clear copy of the first two pages of your

passport that includes your passport photo.

Bhutan

March 17- April 4, 2015

Travel with the Massachusetts Audubon Society

208 South Great Road, Lincoln, MA 01773

800-289-9504

TERMS & CONDITIONS OF TRAVEL

RESERVATIONS, APPLICATIONS, DEPOSITS: Early reservations are required to ensure your place on

this trip. All reservations must be accompanied by a completed reservation form and a $1000 deposit. In the

case of questionable health, we reserve the right to require a physician’s certification to affirm you are capable of

the activities. You will receive a final invoice prior to departure with final payment due on December 18, 90 days

prior to departure. Final Payment must be by check.

RATES: All forms and fares are accurate at the time of publication, March 2014, but are subject to change at any

time prior to departure. It is our policy to pass on only the actual amount of any increases in airfares or land

costs such as those increases due to the devaluation of the dollar. A price increase may be called for if the group

falls below the minimum of 10. The maximum number of participants is approximately 15.

FLIGHTS: Travelers are responsible for arranging their own international flights to Delhi. We will send you

suggested flights, including the flight details of our Mass Audubon leader. You may book your flights online, with a

travel agent, or directly with an airline. Please be aware that most tickets are nonrefundable; therefore, you

should not book your flight arrangements until you have checked with us to be sure the tour has the minimum

number of participants for the trip to go.

CANCELLATIONS AND REFUNDS: All cancellations must be done in writing and are effective upon

receipt in the Massachusetts Audubon Travel Office. Cancellations received up to 91 days prior to departure will

be refunded all money less a $250-per-person service fee. For cancellations between 90 and 61 days prior to

departure, all deposits will not be refunded. There are no refunds for cancellations 60 days or less from

departure. We strongly urge all travelers to purchase trip cancellation insurance. You will be sent information

from the Massachusetts Audubon Society upon receipt of your deposit.

Your Responsibility: Although every precaution is taken to safeguard you and your belongings, group travel

trips by their nature involve a certain amount of risk. Trip participants should understand that the domestic and

international trips sponsored/operated by Massachusetts Audubon Society (Mass Audubon Tours) - hereafter

collectively “M.A.S.” - involve known and unknown risks. M.A.S. assumes no responsibility for injuries, death,

financial losses or damage to clients’ property caused by or occurring during participation in any of the travel trips

sponsored/operated by M.A.S. Trip participants must assume responsibility for having sufficient skill and fitness to

participate in the trips and activities offered or sponsored by M.A.S. Trip participants must also certify that they

have no medical, mental or physical conditions which could interfere with their abilities to participate in the

activities and/or trips they are participating in and they must assume and bear the cost of all risks that may be

created, directly or indirectly, by any such condition. It is the responsibility of trip participants to have in place

adequate insurance to cover any injury, damage or emergency transportation costs related to their travel and/or

participation in trip activities and/or to bear the costs of such injury, damage or emergency transportation costs.

Because of the risks associated with the travel trips sponsored by M.A.S. we urge all trip participants to

supplement their own insurance with travel or vacation or emergency response types of insurance. M.A.S.

requires that all trip participants acknowledge and assume these risks by reading and signing an M.A.S. Release and

Waiver and Assumption of Risk contract prior to departure.

Travelers will be provided an itinerary and trip preparation information. It is expected that travelers will read this

information prior to trip departure. Travelers will be responsible for completing a reservation form, a personal

information form, and a release of liability form.

Bhutan

March 17- April 4, 2015

Travel with the Massachusetts Audubon Society

208 South Great Road, Lincoln, MA 01773

800-289-9504

Application Form for Bhutan Birding and Beyond

Mr./Mrs./Ms.

Passenger Name (1) – as shown on passport

Nationality: ____________________________

Occupation (if retired, please tell us what it was before retirement):___________________ (the above information is needed for processing the Bhutan visa)

Mr./Mrs./Ms.

Passenger Name (2) – as shown on passport

Nationality: ____________________________

Occupation (if retired, please tell us what it was before retirement):___________________ (the above information is needed for processing the Bhutan visa)

Address

City State Zip

Phone: Day Evening

Email address

_____ Please attach to this reservation form a clear color copy of the photo pages of your passport.

Please indicate accommodation preferences:

I/We are non-smoker(s) ___ smoker(s) ___ (smoking is limited to outdoors in non-group spaces)

___ I request single accommodations where available and will pay the single supplement.

___ I would like to be assigned a roommate. If one is not available, I will pay the single supplement.

___ I am sharing with _____________________________________

Deposit: Please find my enclosed check ____or please charge _____ my credit card for the deposit

($1000 per person)

VISA___MC___ Card #____________________________________________________Exp.______________

Make checks payable to “Massachusetts Audubon Society”

_____________________________________________________________________________________

Signature