Tibet Birding Travel Itineraries

Where to shoot the birds

Tibet is home to a wide variety of bird species, many of which are found nowhere else in the world. Some popular birding destinations in Tibet include:

One possible birding trip idea for Tibet would be to focus on the high-altitude regions of the plateau, where a number of unique and endangered bird species can be found. Qiangtang Plateau, which is home to several species of birds that are found nowhere else in the world, such as the Tibetan Eared Pheasant, the Tibetan Snowcock, and the Himalayan Monal.

Yarlung Zangbo Grand Canyon, the world's largest canyon, is home to the Black-necked crane, the White-tailed eagle, the Himalayan Monal and many other species of birds.

Nyingchi Prefecture: Known for its diverse landscapes, including forests, grasslands, and wetlands, this region is home to many species of birds, including the rare black-necked crane and the Tibetan eared pheasant.

Lhasa: The city of Lhasa is surrounded by mountains and valleys, making it a great spot for birding. Some species that can be found here include the black-necked crane, the Himalayan monal, and the Tibetan snowcock.

Shigatse: The second-largest city in Tibet, Shigatse is located in the foothills of the Himalayas and is a great spot for birding. Some species that can be found here include the Himalayan monal, the Tibetan snowcock, and the black-necked crane.

Mount Everest Base Camp: This area is home to many high-altitude bird species such as the Himalayan snowcock and the Himalayan griffon vulture.

Lake Namtso: The lake is home to many species of migratory birds, and it is a popular spot for birdwatching during the spring and autumn months. Some species that can be found here include the bar-headed goose, the black-necked crane, and the ruddy shelduck.

It is important to note that Tibet is a sensitive region and travel restrictions are in place, so it is best to check the current situation and regulations before planning your trip. Join us and we will plan your own birding trip to Tibet. 

When to shoot, the best time for birding in Tibet

The best time for birding in Tibet generally depends on the specific species you hope to see and the location you plan to visit. In general, the spring and autumn months are considered the best times for birding in Tibet.

Spring (April to June) is the breeding season for many bird species in Tibet, and it is a great time to see a variety of migratory birds such as the black-necked crane and the bar-headed goose. The warmer weather and the presence of new vegetation also make it easier to spot and observe birds.

Autumn (September to November) is also a good time for birding in Tibet, as many bird species migrate through the region on their way to their wintering grounds. This is a particularly good time to see migratory waterfowl such as the ruddy shelduck and the black-necked crane.

It is important to note that some areas of Tibet may be closed to tourism during certain times of the year, so it is best to check the current situation and regulations before planning your trip. Additionally, it is worth considering the altitude and weather conditions when planning a birding trip in Tibet, as some areas can be very cold and snowy during winter.

Tibet birding itineraries

A 3-day birding itinerary for Tibet in Nyingchi Prefecture

Day 1: Arrive in Nyingchi and check into your accommodations, Afternoon birding in the alpine meadows and forests surrounding the town of Basong, where you may have the opportunity to see a variety of birds, including the Black-necked Crane, the Blood Pheasant, and the Himalayan Monal.

Day 2: Early morning birding in the nearby Milin County, which is known for its large population of Black-necked Cranes, Afternoon birding in the forests around the Pomi River, where you may be able to spot the beautiful Golden Pheasant and the rare Tibetan Eared Pheasant.

Day 3: Morning birding in the forests of the Yarlung Zangbo Grand Canyon, which is home to the White-tailed eagle, the Himalayan Monal and many other species of birds, Afternoon birding in the alpine meadows around the town of Basong before departing Nyingchi.

It is worth noting that the above itinerary is an example and it can change depending on the availability of the tour and the current travel restrictions. It is also important to keep in mind that birding in high-altitude regions can be physically demanding, so be sure to prepare yourself with proper equipment and acclimatization. It is always best to consult with local birding experts or tour companies that specialize in birding trips to Tibet for the most up-to-date and accurate information.

6-day birding itinerary for Tibet

Day 1: Arrive in Lhasa and acclimatize to the high altitude. Take a leisurely stroll around the city and visit the Potala Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, in the afternoon.

Day 2: Travel to Nyingchi Prefecture. Along the way, stop at the Yarlung Tsangpo Grand Canyon, where you may spot the black-necked crane, the Himalayan monal, and the Tibetan snowcock. Overnight in Nyingchi.

Day 3: Spend the day birding in the Nyingchi Prefecture. The region is known for its diverse landscapes, including forests, grasslands, and wetlands, making it a great spot for birding. Some species that can be found here include the black-necked crane, the Himalayan monal, and the Tibetan eared pheasant. Overnight in Nyingchi.

Day 4: Travel to Shigatse. Along the way, stop at the Yamdrok Lake, where you may spot the bar-headed goose, the black-necked crane, and the ruddy shelduck. Overnight in Shigatse.

Day 5: Spend the day birding in the Shigatse area. The city is located in the foothills of the Himalayas and is a great spot for birding. Some species that can be found here include the Himalayan monal, the Tibetan snowcock, and the black-necked crane. Overnight in Shigatse.

Day 6: Return to Lhasa and depart.

It is important to note that Tibet is a sensitive region and travel restrictions are in place, so it is best to check the current situation and regulations before planning your trip. Additionally, it is worth considering the altitude and weather conditions when planning a birding trip in Tibet, as some areas can be very cold and snowy during winter.

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