Sattal - Manila - Chopta Birding Safari
Discover the untouched beauty and rich biodiversity of the Himalayan region on this birding adventure through Sattal, Manila, and Chopta. This trip is a must for anyone who wants to connect deeply with nature, witness unique species, and explore rare bird habitats.
Sattal enchants visitors with its crystal-clear lakes and dense forests that are home to vibrant species like the Great Barbet and Blue-throated Barbet. The interconnected lakes and lush landscapes offer ideal conditions for birdwatching and photography.
Manila, you’ll find a hidden treasure among pine forests and serene mountain trails. Here, birders can spot elusive species like the Crested Serpent Eagle and Yellow-billed Blue Magpie amidst a tranquil setting that feels untouched by time.
Chopta, often called the “Mini Switzerland of Uttarakhand,” offers breathtaking Himalayan views, high-altitude meadows, and alpine forests. This unique habitat is home to rare, high-altitude birds like the Himalayan Monal and Golden Bush Robin, creating an extraordinary experience for birders and nature photographers alike.
Beyond spotting rare species, your visit supports conservation efforts that protect these fragile habitats, making this trip as meaningful as it is memorable. Perfect for beginners and seasoned birders, this journey offers a unique way to experience the natural splendor of the Himalayas while supporting vital wildlife conservation.
Day- 1 & 2 : Welcome to the Wilderness of Sattal
Morning: Arrive in Sattal, check-in at hotel.
Afternoon: Introduction to birdwatching basics and equipment handling.
Evening: Walk around the lake area to spot common species such as the Great Barbet, Blue Whistling Thrush, and Red-billed Leothrix.
Day 2: Sattal – Forest and Lake Birding
Early Morning: Head to Sattal Lake and surrounding forests for an in-depth birding session.
Birds to Spot: Rufous Sibia, Green Magpie, Himalayan Bulbul, Hill Partridge, Rusty-cheeked Scimitar Babbler.
Afternoon: Rest and lunch.
Evening: Evening birding walk near lakeside trails.
Birds to Spot: Oriental Turtle Dove, Asian Barred Owlet, Ultramarine Flycatcher.
Day- 3 & 4 : Sattal and Manila birding tour
Morning: Full-day birdwatching in oak and pine forests.
Birds to Spot: Blue-throated Barbet, Chestnut-headed Tesia, Red-billed Blue Magpie, Scaly Thrush.
Afternoon: Break at a local café, followed by a photography session around Sattal waterfalls.
Birds to Spot: Black-lored Tit, Maroon Oriole.
Day 4: Transfer to Manila
Morning: Departure from Sattal to Manila.
Afternoon: Check-in at the hotel, followed by a brief birdwatching session in Manila forest.
Birds to Spot: Yellow-billed Blue Magpie, Crested Serpent Eagle, Common Green Magpie.
Day- 5 & 6 : Manila and Chopta birding tour
Early Morning: Birdwatching in the serene pine forests of Manila.
Birds to Spot: Black-headed Jay, Yellow-browed Warbler, Spotted Forktail, Grey-winged Blackbird.
Afternoon: Lunch and leisure.
Evening: Nature walk for dusk birding.
Birds to Spot: Himalayan Vulture, Rufous-bellied Niltava, Indian Blue Robin.
Day 6: Transfer to Chopta – “Mini Switzerland of Uttarakhand”
Morning: Scenic drive from Manila to Chopta, known for its Himalayan views.
Afternoon: Arrival and check-in at Chopta camp.
Evening: Birdwatching around the campsite.
Birds to Spot: Himalayan Monal, Kalij Pheasant, Rufous-gorgeted Flycatcher.
Day - 7 & 8 : Chopta and Tungnath birding
Day 7: Chopta – Tungnath Birding Trail
Early Morning: Trek to Tungnath, the world’s highest Shiva temple, along the birding trail.
Birds to Spot: Golden Bush Robin, Snow Partridge, Altai Accentor, Spot-winged Grosbeak, Upland Pipit.
Afternoon: Rest and lunch near Tungnath.
Evening: Return to Chopta for a quiet sunset photography session.
Birds to Spot: Snow Pigeon, Plain Mountain Finch, Yellow-billed Chough.
Day 8: Departure
Morning Birds to Spot: Fire-tailed Sunbird, Bearded Vulture, Laughing Thrush
Departure : Return travel arrangements from Chopta.
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