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West Bengal offers a striking contrast in birding—from high-elevation Eastern Himalayan ridges to coastal mangrove deltas. Over 550 bird species thrive across its altitudinal range. The key destinations include Singalila National Park, the forests around Darjeeling, and the tidal labyrinth of the Sundarbans. Visit between October and May for optimal bird activity. The state is easily accessed via Bagdogra (for North Bengal) and Kolkata (for the Sundarbans). Birding here combines biodiversity with culture, tea gardens, and offbeat charm.
At A Glance
Nearest Airports
Bagdogra (for Singalila & Darjeeling), Kolkata (for Sundarbans)
Best Time
October–May
Forests
Eastern Himalayan Broadleaf, Temperate Oak-Rhododendron, Tidal Mangroves
Min Recommended Stay
04 Days
Main Destinations
Singalila, Darjeeling & Around, Sundarbans
These are West Bengal’s core birding zones. Custom extensions to Neora Valley, Gorumara, or Jaldapara can be arranged for longer trips or specialised interests.
Places to Go:
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Darjeeling & Around (1,800–2,300 m; temperate broadleaf): Green-backed Tit, Hoary-throated Barwing, Scaly Laughingthrush; rich birdlife amidst tea estates and forested ridges..
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Sundarbans (0–5 m; tidal mangrove): Mangrove Pitta, Brown-winged Kingfisher, Lesser Adjutant; boat safaris through tidal creeks in the world’s largest mangrove forest..
Suggested Itineraries
Rivers, Wetlands & Winged Wonders: West Bengal Birding
7 nights, 8 days
Buxa Tiger Reserve, Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary, Latpanchar show great numbers of oriental pied, grey, and rufous-necked hornbills in forest canopy.
Waterbirds, geese, and raptors gather around the water for dramatic winter displays at sunrise.
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Sundarbans
3 nights, 4 days
Boat cruises through tidal mangrove creeks
Search for Bengal tigers and estuarine crocodiles
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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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A South Indian Odyssey
11 nights, 12 days
Explore Brihadeeswarar and Meenakshi temples
Visit Mahabalipuram’s UNESCO-listed Shore Temple
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Taj, Tigers & Temples
11 nights, 12 days
Sunrise visit to the Taj Mahal
Go on thrilling safaris in Ranthambore
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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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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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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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Untouched Arunachal
10 nights, 11 days
Visit the majestic Tawang Monastery
Drive through the stunning Sela Pass
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