Bird Watching in Uttarakhand: 12 Famous Spots to Explore

Only the most seasoned of bird watchers, those with limitless amounts of patience and tenacity, should attempt to see birds in their natural habitats. Dev Bhoomi, Uttarakhand, is the best site to see a wide variety of birds and take stunning photographs of them.

The majestic hills of Uttarakhand are home to a wide variety of birds, each with its own unique appearance and personality. Wildlife in Uttarakhand is thriving because most cities there have found a good balance between natural and human habitation.

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Here is a list of the top bird-watching spots in Uttarakhand:

1. Thano Maldevta Lachhiwala, (not far from Dehradun)

Doon Valley’s abundant scenery has attracted a wide variety of colorful birds, which have settled primarily in the valley’s scrub forests, riverine rainforest, agricultural fields, and orchards. Towards the east of Doon Valley, where the Sal mixed forests of the Shivaliks provide a natural border, you can see a large range of bird species.

Location: Near Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India

Highlights:

Rich bird diversity with species like parakeets, woodpeckers, and kingfishers.
Dense forest cover and serene environment.

Best Time to Visit: October to April

Activities:

Bird watching and photography.
Nature walks and picnicking.
Exploring the nearby Lachhiwala Nature Park.

Travel Experience: Thano Maldevta Lachhiwala, located near Dehradun, is a haven for bird watchers. The dense forests and serene environment attract a variety of bird species, making it an ideal spot for bird watching and photography. The area is also perfect for nature walks and picnics. Exploring the nearby Lachhiwala Nature Park adds to the experience with its beautiful landscapes and tranquil setting.

How to Reach:

By Air: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, about 27 km away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi.
By Train: The nearest railway station is Dehradun, around 21 km away. From the station, you can hire a taxi or take a local bus.
By Road: Thano Maldevta Lachhiwala is well connected by road, with regular buses and taxis available from Dehradun.

Read also: Why October is the Best Time to Visit Uttarakhand

2. Binsar, a Fantastic Place to Observe Birds

Binsar, a tranquil location in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand, is home to some beautiful natural scenery.

The Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary protects the area around this little hill hamlet, providing a home to a variety of endangered plants and animals. Since the area is covered with dense vegetation, it is ideal for outdoor activities including hiking, camping, and nature hikes.

The abundant opportunities to see the beautiful Himalayan birds have made Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary famous. It’s no surprise that the park attracts so many birders, ornithologists, and photographers at all times of the year.

A guided trip through the forest can help you easily spot our colorful avian guests because it provides the ideal environment and climate for them to thrive. Read Also: 5 Famous Destinations to See in Binsar.

Location: Almora District, Uttarakhand, India

Highlights:

Over 200 species of birds, including magpies, nuthatches, and forktails.
Stunning views of the Himalayas.

Best Time to Visit: October to April

Activities:

Bird watching and photography.
Trekking and hiking in Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary.
Exploring local flora and fauna.

Travel Experience: Binsar is a fantastic place to observe birds, with over 200 species inhabiting the area. The Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary provides ample opportunities for bird-watching and photography. Trekking and hiking through the sanctuary offer breathtaking views of the Himalayas and a chance to explore the diverse flora and fauna. Binsar is a tranquil retreat for nature lovers and bird enthusiasts.

How to Reach:

By Air: The nearest airport is Pantnagar Airport, about 127 km away. From Pantnagar, you can hire a taxi.
By Train: The nearest railway station is Kathgodam, around 119 km away. From Kathgodam, you can hire a taxi or take a bus.
By Road: Binsar is well connected by road, with regular buses and taxis available from Almora and other nearby cities.

3. Chakrata-Koti Kanasar

The tiny, winged residents of the Himalayas have carved a particular place in their hearts for these out-of-the-way hill settlements located in the highest regions of the Dehradun district.

This sparsely populated region is easily accessible, sandwiched between Mussoorie and Kinnaur to the east and west, respectively.

Quite a few species of birds can be found in the area, including the Yellow-Crowned Woodpecker, the Himalayan Woodpecker, the Brown Headed Barbet, the Coppersmith Barbet, the Common Hawk Cuckoo, the Oriental Turtle Dove, the Grey Treepie, the Blue Whistling Thrush, the Chukar Partridge, the Cinereous Vulture, the Speckled Piculet, the Wallcreeper, the Bar-tailed Treece There are hundreds of birds here.

Location: Uttarakhand, India

Highlights:

Home to a variety of bird species, including pheasants, minivets, and woodpeckers.
Dense deodar forests and stunning landscapes.

Best Time to Visit: March to June and September to November

Activities:

Bird watching and photography.
Trekking and exploring dense forests.
Camping and nature walks.

Travel Experience: Chakrata-Koti Kanasar is a paradise for bird watchers, with a rich diversity of bird species inhabiting the dense deodar forests. The area offers numerous trekking trails and opportunities for camping and nature walks. The stunning landscapes and tranquil environment make it a perfect retreat for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers.

How to Reach:

By Air: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, about 125 km away. From Dehradun, you can hire a taxi.
By Train: The nearest railway station is Dehradun, around 95 km away. From Dehradun, you can hire a taxi or take a bus.
By Road: Chakrata-Koti Kanasar is well connected by road, with regular buses and taxis available from Dehradun and other nearby cities.

4. Barrages of Asan

Dehradun is home to the wetland at Asan Barrage, which is located close to where the perennial rivers Asan and Yamuna meet. Divers and waders flock to the lake in great numbers. Asan is home to the internationally threatened bird species listed.

Asan barrage, which is conveniently accessible from the city, is a great opportunity for ornithologists and naturalists to observe tens of thousands of migratory birds that have flown a great distance to congregate. There is nothing more beautiful than watching a duck or red-crested pochard swimming peacefully through a few hundred yards of pristine wilderness, and it is truly a remarkable sight to witness.

Location: Uttarakhand, India

Highlights:

Migratory birds such as ruddy shelducks, pochards, and pintails.
Wetland habitat attracts diverse bird species.

Best Time to Visit: November to March

Activities:

Bird watching and photography.
Boating and exploring the wetlands.
Picnicking by the water.

Travel Experience: The Barrages of Asan are renowned for their wetland habitat, attracting a variety of migratory birds. Bird watchers can spot species such as ruddy shelducks, pochards, and pintails. Boating on the Asan Barrage provides a unique perspective of the wetlands and their avian inhabitants. The serene environment is perfect for picnicking and nature walks.

How to Reach:

By Air: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, about 50 km away. From Dehradun, you can hire a taxi.
By Train: The nearest railway station is Dehradun, around 42 km away. From Dehradun, you can hire a taxi or take a bus.
By Road: The Barrages of Asan are well connected by road, with regular buses and taxis available from Dehradun and other nearby cities.

5. Rajaji National Park, Chilla, and Surrounding Areas

Rajaji National Park is a huge 1075 square kilometer area of mixed tropical deciduous woods nestled in the Shivalik Mountains.

Birds in peril, such as the Great Hornbill, Pallas Fish Eagle, River Lapwing, and Vulture, rely on the Shivaliks as critical nesting habitat.

About 311 different bird species, including ducks and flycatchers, spend the winter in the Rajaji before migrating to the Shivalik. The British Natural History Society and BirdLife International have designated this park as a key birding location.

Location: Uttarakhand, India

Highlights:

Over 300 species of birds, including hornbills, vultures, and kingfishers.
Rich wildlife and diverse ecosystems.

Best Time to Visit: November to June

Activities:

Bird watching and wildlife safaris.
Trekking and nature walks.
Exploring Chilla range and nearby attractions.

Travel Experience: Rajaji National Park and the Chilla range offer a rich bird-watching experience with over 300 species of birds. Wildlife enthusiasts can also enjoy safaris to spot various animals such as elephants, tigers, and leopards. The diverse ecosystems and stunning landscapes provide ample opportunities for trekking and nature walks. Rajaji National Park is a must-visit for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

How to Reach:

By Air: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, about 35 km away. From Dehradun, you can hire a taxi.
By Train: The nearest railway station is Haridwar, around 18 km away. From Haridwar, you can hire a taxi or take a bus.
By Road: Rajaji National Park is well connected by road, with regular buses and taxis available from Haridwar and other nearby cities.

6. A Wonderful Mountain Retreat: Chakrata

In Uttrakhand, the months of February through May are prime time for birdwatching. Uttarakhand is at its most beautiful and abundant with birds and wildlife throughout the summer and spring months.

Beautiful birds including verditors (blue birds), macpies (long-tailed birds), woodpeckers, thrashers, great barbets, green pigeons, Himalayan vultures, eagles, and many others can be seen flying around the hotel grounds. Birdsong used to wake us up. One Black Frank Colin would always wake you up in the morning and be your morning buddy.

Please don’t just sit around doing nothing now that you have a full itinerary of the top spots to go bird-watching. It’s time to give something new a shot; who knows, you might find that it’s right up your alley! In Uttarakhand, you may see some of the most stunning birds in the world.

Location: Uttarakhand, India

Highlights:

Rich bird diversity with species like Himalayan monal and black-headed jay.
Scenic mountain landscapes and dense forests.

Best Time to Visit: March to June and September to November

Activities:

Bird watching and photography.
Trekking and exploring scenic trails.
Camping and nature walks.

Travel Experience: Chakrata is a serene mountain retreat offering rich bird diversity and stunning landscapes. Bird watchers can spot species such as the Himalayan monal and black-headed jay. The area provides numerous trekking trails and opportunities for camping and nature walks. The tranquil environment and scenic beauty make Chakrata an ideal destination for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts.

How to Reach:

By Air: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, about 92 km away. From Dehradun, you can hire a taxi.
By Train: The nearest railway station is Dehradun, around 73 km away. From Dehradun, you can hire a taxi or take a bus.
By Road: Chakrata is well connected by road, with regular buses and taxis available from Dehradun and other nearby cities.

7. Garhwal

Well-known for its snow-capped mountains, winding meadows, and thick forests. More than two hundred species of Himalayan birds have made the Agora-Barsu-Dayara circuit their home. In addition, the area is home to the pristine Dodital Lake and Dayara Bugyal, both of which are worth a visit for any trekkers in the area.

Over 300 bird species have been spotted at Garhwal, with many more passing through on their annual migrations. The number of jungle lodges that provide guided bird watching has increased recently because of the increase in the number of species of birds one can find at this place.

Location: Uttarakhand, India

Highlights:

Diverse bird species and rich natural beauty.
Cultural heritage and traditional villages.

Best Time to Visit: October to April

Activities:

Bird watching and photography.
Trekking and exploring traditional villages.
Cultural tours and nature walks.

Travel Experience: Garhwal is known for its diverse bird species and rich natural beauty. Bird watchers can explore various habitats to spot different species. The region also offers trekking trails and cultural tours to traditional villages, providing a glimpse into the local heritage and lifestyle. The serene environment and stunning landscapes make Garhwal a perfect destination for bird enthusiasts and nature lovers.

How to Reach:

By Air: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun. From Dehradun, you can hire a taxi.
By Train: The nearest railway stations are in Dehradun, Haridwar, and Rishikesh. From these stations, you can hire a taxi or take a bus.
By Road: Garhwal is well connected by road, with regular buses and taxis available from major cities in Uttarakhand.

8. The Asan Nature Reserve and the Timli Forest Reserve

The Asan Conservation Reserve in the Dehradun district was India’s first such reserve when it was set up in 2005, and it offers breathtaking vistas of the migrating birds that fly here in large numbers.

More than 255 different bird species have made this wetland, designated as an Important Bird Area by BirdLife International, a top destination for migrating birds.

Location: Uttarakhand, India

Highlights:

Wetland habitat attracts migratory and resident birds.
Dense forests and rich biodiversity.

Best Time to Visit: November to March

Activities:

Bird watching and photography.
Exploring the wetlands and dense forests.
Nature walks and picnicking.

Travel Experience: The Asan Nature Reserve and the Timli Forest Reserve are known for their wetland habitats, attracting a variety of migratory and resident birds. Bird watchers can explore the wetlands to spot different species and enjoy nature walks through the dense forests. The serene environment and rich biodiversity make these reserves perfect for bird-watching and nature photography.

How to Reach:

By Air: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun. From Dehradun, you can hire a taxi.
By Train: The nearest railway station is Dehradun. From Dehradun, you can hire a taxi or take a bus.
By Road: The Asan Nature Reserve and the Timli Forest Reserve are well connected by road, with regular buses and taxis available from Dehradun and other nearby cities.

9. Khirsu

Numerous little birds have made the charming hills of Khirsu their home because of the serenity and safety it provides.

The snowy peaks of Phurkunda are a sight to behold, shining brightly even in the night, like a natural chandelier Mother Nature hung in her magnificent mansion.

Khirsu has a peaceful, calming atmosphere. rich in forest trails and exotic birds.

Location: Pauri Garhwal, Uttarakhand, India

Highlights:

Over 230 species of birds, including parakeets, woodpeckers, and thrushes.
Stunning views of the Himalayas and dense forests.

Best Time to Visit: October to April

Activities:

Bird watching and photography.
Trekking and exploring scenic trails.
Visiting local temples and nature walks.

Travel Experience: Khirsu is a peaceful hill station known for its rich bird diversity and stunning views of the Himalayas. Bird watchers can spot over 230 species, including parakeets, woodpeckers, and thrushes. The area offers trekking trails and nature walks through dense forests and scenic landscapes. Visiting local temples adds a cultural touch to the experience, making Khirsu a perfect destination for nature and bird enthusiasts.

How to Reach:

By Air: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, about 145 km away. From Dehradun, you can hire a taxi.
By Train: The nearest railway station is Kotdwar, around 115 km away. From Kotdwar, you can hire a taxi or take a bus.
By Road: Khirsu is well connected by road, with regular buses and taxis available from Pauri and other nearby cities.

Khirsu Package: 2 Nights 3 Days Khirsu Weekend Travel Itinerary

10. Dhikala-Gairal Corbett National Park

Dhikala Tourism Zone is the oldest and most restricted of the three main tourism zones in Corbett National Park, which was established in 1936.

It offers a wide variety of habitats thanks to its location in the Shivalik-Terai-Bhabhar biotic province. More than 550 different bird species either permanently call Corbett home or come there to visit during the year.

This is mostly due to the area’s dense forests, the crystal clear waters of the Ramganga River, and the abundance of bird paradise.

Location: Uttarakhand, India

Highlights:

Over 600 species of birds, including crested serpent eagle and fish owl.
Rich wildlife and diverse ecosystems.

Best Time to Visit: November to June

Activities:

Bird watching and wildlife safaris.
Exploring Dhikala and Gairal zones.
Nature walks and photography.

Travel Experience: The Dhikala-Gairal zone of Corbett National Park offers a rich bird-watching experience with over 600 species of birds. Wildlife enthusiasts can also enjoy safaris to spot various animals such as tigers, elephants, and deer. The diverse ecosystems and stunning landscapes provide ample opportunities for nature walks and photography. Corbett National Park is a must-visit for bird enthusiasts and wildlife lovers.

How to Reach:

By Air: The nearest airport is Pantnagar Airport, about 80 km away. From Pantnagar, you can hire a taxi.
By Train: The nearest railway station is Ramnagar, around 15 km away. From Ramnagar, you can hire a taxi or take a bus.
By Road: Corbett National Park is well connected by road, with regular buses and taxis available from Ramnagar and other nearby cities.

11. Neel Dhara Pakshi Vihar, Haridwar

Another fantastic area, Neel Dhara Pakshi Vihar can be found near Haridwar, not far from the Bhimgoda Barrage and only a few kilometers from Har ki Pauri.

During the peak winter season, a large variety of migrating birds rushes the area known as Neel Dhara Pakshi Vihar, which is located behind the barrage. Here at Lajjiwala, you have a good chance of seeing Siberian cranes. If you want to see a lot of birds, you should try to be there very early in the morning.

Location: Haridwar, Uttarakhand, India

Highlights:

Migratory birds such as Siberian cranes and cormorants.
Scenic views of the Ganges River.

Best Time to Visit: October to March

Activities:

Bird watching and photography.
Exploring the serene environment along the Ganges.
Nature walks and picnicking.

Travel Experience: Neel Dhara Pakshi Vihar in Haridwar is a popular spot for bird watching, especially for spotting migratory birds like Siberian cranes and cormorants. The serene environment along the Ganges River provides a perfect backdrop for nature walks and picnicking. Bird watchers and nature enthusiasts will find Neel Dhara Pakshi Vihar an ideal destination to explore and enjoy.

How to Reach:

By Air: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, about 40 km away. From Dehradun, you can hire a taxi.
By Train: The nearest railway station is Haridwar. From the station, you can hire a taxi or take a local auto-rickshaw.
By Road: Neel Dhara Pakshi Vihar is well connected by road, with regular buses and taxis available from Haridwar and other nearby cities.

12. Nainital’s Naina Devi Bird Sanctuary

Bird watchers can’t put a price on protecting the Naina Devi Himalayan Bird Conservation Reserve in Nainital.

Hill partridges, Himalayan griffons, koklass pheasants, rufous sibias, yellow-breasted greenfinches, red-billed leiothrix, black-throated tits, rock buntings, and green-tailed sunbirds are just some of the bird species that can be seen on the many birding routes inside.

Both the Himalayan griffon and the bearded vulture are critically endangered. You can see why such significance is placed on this spot.

Location: Nainital, Uttarakhand, India

Highlights:

Home to a variety of bird species, including the Himalayan griffon and blue whistling thrush.
Dense forests and scenic landscapes.

Best Time to Visit: March to June and September to November

Activities:

Bird watching and photography.
Trekking and exploring scenic trails.
Boating on Naini Lake and visiting Naina Devi Temple.

Travel Experience: Naina Devi Bird Sanctuary in Nainital offers a rich bird-watching experience with a variety of species inhabiting the dense forests. Bird watchers can spot species like the Himalayan griffon and blue whistling thrush. The sanctuary provides numerous trekking trails and stunning views of the surrounding landscapes. Boating on Naini Lake and visiting the Naina Devi Temple add to the charm of exploring this beautiful sanctuary.

How to Reach:

By Air: The nearest airport is Pantnagar Airport, about 70 km away. From Pantnagar, you can hire a taxi.
By Train: The nearest railway station is Kathgodam, around 34 km away. From Kathgodam, you can hire a taxi or take a bus.
By Road: Nainital is well connected by road, with regular buses and taxis available from major cities in Uttarakhand.

The state of Uttarakhand has earned the nickname “birdwatcher’s utopia” due to its abundance of mountains, rivers, and forests.

Uttarakhand’s already stunning landscape is enhanced during peak migration times by the arrival of thousands of lovely migratory birds. Birds from all over the world find a safe haven across the entire state. If you have a fascination with bird life and would like to see birds in their native environment, then Uttarakhand is the place for you.

Explore More Uttarakhand Articles:

FAQs

1. What are the best places for bird watching in Uttarakhand?

Nainital: Known for a wide variety of bird species.
Pangot: A birdwatcher’s paradise with over 250 species.
Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary: Famous for its rich birdlife and scenic beauty.

2. What are some common bird species found in Uttarakhand?

Himalayan Monal: The state bird of Uttarakhand.
Cheer Pheasant: Found in the higher altitudes.
Himalayan Bulbul: Commonly seen in the region.

3. Where can I go bird watching near Chakrata?

Tiger Falls: Offers great opportunities for bird watching.
Deoban: A dense forest area near Chakrata known for its bird diversity.

4. What is the best time for bird watching in Uttarakhand?

The best time for bird watching in Uttarakhand is from November to March when many migratory birds visit the region.

5. What activities can I do in Chakrata?

Trekking: Explore various trekking trails like the Kanasar Forest Trek.
Camping: Enjoy camping in scenic spots around Chakrata.
Bird Watching: Spot various bird species in the lush forests.

6. What are some popular bird sanctuaries in Uttarakhand?

Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary: Known for its rich avian population.
Rajaji National Park: Home to a diverse range of bird species.
Asan Barrage Bird Sanctuary: Famous for its migratory birds.

7. What are the top tourist places to visit in Chakrata?

Tiger Falls: One of the highest waterfalls in India.
Deoban: A dense forest with panoramic views and rich biodiversity.
Kanasar: Known for its ancient deodar trees and serene environment.

8. What is Chakrata famous for?

Natural Beauty: Known for its scenic landscapes and lush greenery.
Adventure Activities: Popular for trekking, camping, and bird watching.
Waterfalls: Home to the stunning Tiger Falls.

9. What birds can be seen in Nainital?

Khalij Pheasant: A beautiful bird found in the forests around Nainital.
Black-headed Jay: Commonly seen in the region.
Red-billed Blue Magpie: Known for its striking colors.

10. How can I reach Chakrata from Dehradun?

By Road: Chakrata is about 90 km from Dehradun and can be reached by taxi or bus.
By Train: The nearest railway station is in Dehradun, from where you can take a taxi or bus to Chakrata.

11. What are the best bird-watching places in Uttarakhand?

Nainital: Known for a wide variety of bird species and beautiful lakes.
Pangot: A small village near Nainital, famous for its rich birdlife.
Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary: Offers a haven for bird watchers with numerous species.
Corbett National Park: Known for its diverse bird population.
Rajaji National Park: A great place for spotting both resident and migratory birds.

12. What are some common birds found in Uttarakhand?

Himalayan Monal: The state bird of Uttarakhand.
Cheer Pheasant: Found in the higher altitudes.
Himalayan Bulbul: A common sight in the region.
Brown Dipper: Seen near streams and rivers.
Steppe Eagle: A migratory bird often spotted during winter.

13. When is the best time for bird watching in Uttarakhand?

The best time for bird watching in Uttarakhand is from November to March. This period is ideal as many migratory birds visit the region.

14. What bird species can be seen in Pangot?

Khalij Pheasant, Himalayan Griffon, Rufous-bellied Woodpecker, Yellow-throated Marten, and Blue-winged Minla.

15. What are the bird-watching activities available in Corbett National Park?

Guided Bird Watching Tours: Explore different trails and habitats with experienced guides.
Jeep Safaris: Morning and evening safaris to spot various bird species along with other wildlife.
Nature Walks: Walks along the rivers and forest trails for bird spotting.

16. Are there bird-watching opportunities in Rajaji National Park?

Yes, Rajaji National Park is a bird watcher’s paradise, especially known for Great Hornbill, Pied Kingfisher, Black Stork, Bar-headed Goose, and Indian Roller.

17. What makes Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary special for bird watchers?

Binsar is home to more than 200 bird species including Tits, Forktail, Nuthatches, and Blackbirds. The sanctuary’s lush forest provides a perfect habitat for these birds.

18. Can I see migratory birds in Uttarakhand?

Yes, places like Asan Barrage, Corbett National Park, and Sattal are famous for their migratory bird populations. You can see species like Ruddy Shelduck, Black-necked Stork, and Northern Pintail.

19. What bird species are unique to Nainital?

Nainital hosts species like White-throated Laughingthrush, Red-billed Blue Magpie, Himalayan Woodpecker, and Blue-capped Redstart.

20. Are there bird-watching trails in Dehradun?

Yes, Dehradun has several trails ideal for bird watching, including Malsi Deer Park, Robber’s Cave, and the Forests around the Doon Valley. Birds like Oriental White-eye, Crested Serpent Eagle, and Grey Bushchat can be seen here.

12 Best Bird Watching Spots in Uttarakhand

Here is a list of the top bird-watching spots in Uttarakhand:

1. Thano Maldevta Lachhiwala, (not far from Dehradun)