Bird Watching in Uttarakhand: A Paradise for Nature Lovers
- Mapchemy
- 5 days ago
- 5 min read
Updated: 3 days ago
Content
Introduction
Uttarakhand’s varied topography creates a remarkable range of habitats, making it one of India’s finest destinations for bird watching. From wetlands and sal forests to alpine meadows and high-altitude oak–conifer forests, the state supports an extraordinary diversity of avian life.
During the winter migration season, Uttarakhand attracts numerous birds from Siberia and Central Asia, offering unforgettable birding experiences. With over 600 recorded bird species, the state is a haven for both amateur birdwatchers and seasoned ornithologists.
Some of the top birding destinations in Uttarakhand include Asan Barrage (Dehradun), Pangot (Nainital), Sattal (Nainital), Jim Corbett National Park, Rajaji National Park, and Chopta.
Uttarakhand’s State Bird: Himalayan Monal
The Himalayan Monal (Lophophorus impejanus), also known as the Impeyan Monal, is Uttarakhand’s state bird. This vibrant pheasant is renowned for the male’s dazzling iridescent plumage in shades of green, blue, and red, while the female is brown, providing excellent camouflage.
The Himalayan Monal is mainly found in high-altitude oak–conifer forests and alpine meadows across the Himalayas. In Nepal, it is fondly called the Danphe.
Top Birding Hotspots in Uttarakhand
1. Asan Barrage, Dehradun
Located around 48 km from Dehradun city, Asan Barrage lies near Dhalipur village on the Uttarakhand–Himachal Pradesh border, at the confluence of the Asan and Yamuna rivers. Created in 1967, it is Uttarakhand’s first Ramsar site, covering an area of 444.4 hectares.
This conservation reserve is a major wintering ground for migratory waterfowl. Notable migratory species include:
Brahminy Duck
Red-crested Pochard
Gadwall
Common Pochard
Mallard
Eurasian Coot
Wigeon
Common Teal
Tufted Duck
Northern Shoveller
2. Pangot, Nainital
Situated about 16 km from Nainital at an altitude of nearly 2,000 metres, Pangot is a small Himalayan village surrounded by dense forests. It is one of the best birdwatching locations in Uttarakhand.
Notable bird species found around Pangot include:
Koklass Pheasant
Kalij Pheasant
Rufous-bellied Woodpecker
Great Barbet
Black-headed Jay
Red-billed Blue Magpie
Black-throated Tit
Green-backed Tit
Russet Sparrow
Several bird-friendly stays are available here, such as Jungle Lore Birding Lodge and Naina Devi Himalayan Bird Conservation Reserve.
3. Sattal, Nainital
Located around 23.5 km from Nainital and approximately 300 km from Delhi, Sattal—meaning “seven lakes”—is a tranquil cluster of freshwater lakes surrounded by thick forests. Local folklore suggests that the area was once home to seven large and small lakes, many of which have gradually disappeared over time.
Birdwatching in Sattal is a wholesome and rewarding experience. Commonly spotted species include:
Indian Paradise Flycatcher
Red-billed Leiothrix
Kalij Pheasant
Speckled Piculet
Due to its forested surroundings, Sattal is also home to owls, woodpeckers, and various forest birds, making it ideal for nature photography and peaceful birding walks.
4. Jim Corbett National Park
Located in the foothills of the Himalayas, Jim Corbett National Park is around 279 km from Delhi, 60 km from Kathgodam (nearest railway station), and 87 km from Pantnagar Airport.
Established in 1936, it is India’s oldest national park. While globally famous for tiger safaris, Corbett is also one of the best birdwatching destinations in India, with birding possible throughout the year.
Migratory birds arrive here from Siberia, Europe, and Central Asia. Notable species include:
Siberian Rubythroat
Verditer Flycatcher
Ibisbill
Wallcreeper
Bar-headed Goose
Northern Lapwing
5. Rajaji National Park
Situated around 237 km from Delhi and just 37 km from Dehradun, Rajaji National Park is a prime birding hotspot in Uttarakhand, boasting over 400 bird species.
Some key species found here are:
Great Hornbill
Crested Kingfisher
Brown Fish Owl
Lammergeier (Bearded Vulture)
Various raptors and kingfishers
Birdwatching is commonly done via jeep safaris in the Chilla and Motichur zones.
6. Chopta
Located about 198 km from Dehradun and 416 km from Delhi, Chopta lies within the Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary and is often referred to as the “Mini Switzerland of India”.
Chopta is a premier birdwatching destination, home to over 240 bird species, including:
Himalayan Monal
Koklass Pheasant
Snow Partridge
The best time for birdwatching here is March to May and September to November. During spring, visitors can also witness the spectacular bloom of rhododendrons, Uttarakhand’s state flower.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is Uttarakhand good for bird watching?
Yes, Uttarakhand is one of the best birdwatching destinations in India. With diverse habitats ranging from wetlands and forests to alpine meadows, the state is home to over 600 bird species, including many migratory and Himalayan birds.
2. What is the best time for bird watching in Uttarakhand?
The best time for bird watching in Uttarakhand is October to March, especially during winter when migratory birds arrive from Siberia and Central Asia. For high-altitude regions like Chopta, March to May and September to November are ideal.
3. Which are the top bird watching places in Uttarakhand?
Some of the best birding hotspots in Uttarakhand include:
Asan Barrage (Dehradun)
Pangot (Nainital)
Sattal (Nainital)
Jim Corbett National Park
Rajaji National Park
Chopta (Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary)
4. What is the state bird of Uttarakhand?
The Himalayan Monal (Lophophorus impejanus) is the state bird of Uttarakhand. It is a colourful pheasant found in high-altitude oak–conifer forests and alpine meadows of the Himalayas.
5. Can beginners enjoy bird watching in Uttarakhand?
Absolutely. Locations like Sattal, Pangot, and Asan Barrage are beginner-friendly and easily accessible. Guided birding walks and eco-lodges also make the experience enjoyable for first-time birdwatchers.
6. Are migratory birds found in Uttarakhand?
Yes, Uttarakhand attracts numerous migratory birds during winter. Species arrive from Siberia, Europe, and Central Asia, especially in wetlands like Asan Barrage and forested areas of Jim Corbett National Park.
7. Do I need permits for bird watching in national parks?
Yes, entry permits are required for bird watching in protected areas such as Jim Corbett National Park and Rajaji National Park. These are usually included in jeep safari bookings or can be obtained at entry gates.
8. What birds can be seen at Asan Barrage?
Asan Barrage is famous for migratory waterfowl such as:
Brahminy Duck
Red-crested Pochard
Common Teal
Mallard
Eurasian Coot
Northern Shoveller
9. Is Chopta good for spotting the Himalayan Monal?
Yes, Chopta is one of the best places in Uttarakhand to spot the Himalayan Monal, especially during early mornings in spring and autumn.
10. Are there birding lodges in Uttarakhand?
Yes, several bird-friendly accommodations are available, particularly in Pangot and Sattal. These lodges often offer guided birding tours, nature walks, and photography opportunities.
11. What equipment is recommended for bird watching in Uttarakhand?
Basic equipment includes:
Binoculars (8×42 or 10×42 recommended)
A bird identification guide or mobile app
Camera with a telephoto lens (optional)
Warm clothing for early mornings and winter months
12. Is bird watching in Uttarakhand suitable for photography?
Yes, Uttarakhand is excellent for bird photography, especially in places like Pangot, Sattal, Corbett, and Chopta, where varied light, forest cover, and species diversity offer great opportunities.
If you need more information or would like personalised assistance in planning your journey across Uttarakhand, feel free to contact us at contact@mapchemy.com — we’re here to help you craft the perfect travel experience. And you can also visit our website www.mapchemy.com.
Comments