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Sikkim is a birding paradise where altitudes range from 300 m valleys to 8,500 m peaks, covering lush subtropical forests to alpine meadows. Key birding regions like Khangchendzonga NP, North Sikkim, and Pangolakha WLS host over 550 species—including pheasants, parrotbills, rosefinches, and tragopans. The best time to visit is March to June and September to November. Access is via Bagdogra or Pakyong airports, with overland transfers from Gangtok. With dense biodiversity, dramatic landscapes, and rich cultural layers, Sikkim is one of India’s most rewarding birding frontiers.
At A Glance
Nearest Airports
Bagdogra (via Siliguri), Pakyong
Best Time
Mar–Jun, Sep–Nov
Forests
Subtropical Broadleaf to Alpine Conifer
Min Recommended Stay
04 Days
Main Destinations
Khangchendzonga NP, North Sikkim, Pangolakha WLS
These three are Sikkim’s top birding zones. We can also add custom extensions to Barsey, Tholung, or Pelling, based on your interest in altitude, walking intensity, or diversity.
Places to Go:
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North Sikkim (~2,500–4,500 m; rhododendron-fir to alpine meadows): Tibetan Partridge, White-browed Rosefinch, Himalayan Rubythroat—perfect for high-altitude specialists and spectacular Himalayan terrain..
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Pangolakha WLS (1,500–4,200 m; temperate conifer & bamboo): Red-faced Liocichla, Rusty-bellied Shortwing, Parrotbills, Blood Pheasant—dense forests and excellent birding near Zuluk & Dzuluk loops..
Suggested Itineraries
Silent Peaks & Cloud Forests: The Wildlife of Sikkim
7 nights, 8 days
Over 550 bird species, including blood pheasant, Himalayan monal, great pied hornbill (hongraio), crested serpent eagle, and many restricted-range species in sanctuaries like Kitam, Shingba, Barsey
Spring (March-May) brings blooming rhododendrons, orchids, primulas in Shingba, Barsey, Maenam, and high alpine ridges colour-soaked trails made for walking and photography.
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Enchanting Sikkim
7 nights, 8 days
Drive to Gangtok with stunning Himalayan views
Visit Tsomgo Lake and Baba Mandir
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Whispers of the Red Panda on the Singalila Ridge
8 nights, 7 days
Trek through mist-wrapped bamboo forests on the Singalila Ridge
Spot Himalayan black bear, clouded leopard, serow, martens, and over 300 bird species including tragopans and blood pheasants.
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Kingdom of Clouds: Bhutan’s Living Heritage
7 nights, 8 days
Hike to iconic Tiger’s Nest and explore hidden gompas echoing with chants.
Traverse Paro, Thimphu, Punakha, and Phobjikha, each with its own character and charm.
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Nepal’s Journey Of Wildlife and Culture
11 nights, 10 days
Jeep safari in Chitwan National Park
Birdwatching along Rapti River
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Nepal’s Wildlife & Trekking Escape
12 nights, 11 days
Trek in Langtang or Annapurna
Mountain teahouse stays
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A Northeast Adventure
9 nights, 10 days
Safari in Kaziranga to see one-horned rhinos
Explore Cherrapunji’s root bridges and waterfalls
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High Passes & Crying Rivers: Birding Kashmir & Ladakh
14 nights, 15 days
Kashmir Valley’s Forest & Valley Specialists – In Dachigam, Aru, Sonmarg, and Zabarwan, spot Kashmir Flycatcher, White-cheeked Nuthatch, Kashmir Nutcracker, Orange Bullfinch, and Spectacled Finch.
Along shingle beds and brooks, Ibisbill and White-throated Dipper thrive, especially on the Srinagar–Leh highway stretches.
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Song of the Hills: Uttarakhand Birding Trails
7 nights, 8 days
Corbett, Rajaji and the Terai belt host Pallas’s fish eagle, great hornbill, red-headed trogon, and rich waterbird congregations.
Around Sattal, Pangot, and the Dehradun valley, expect laughingthrushes, forktails, sunbirds, and flocks of barbets.
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