India · Bird Watching

7-Day Sikkim Birding Tour with Monasteries and High-Altitude Lakes

7 Days Round trip from Bagdogra Moderate pace

The journey

Trip highlights
  • 01 Birdwatch at Rumtek Monastery and Lingdum Monastery in Sikkim's tranquil hills and forests
  • 02 Explore Phodong and Labrang Monastery for sightings of sunbirds, minivets, flycatchers, and bullfinches
  • 03 Search for diverse birdlife around the lush forests of Pelling and the tranquil Khecheopalri Lake
  • 04 Visit Tsomgo Lake at 3,780 meters for high-altitude birding amid snow-capped mountain scenery

This 7-day birding tour introduces you to Sikkim's diverse birdlife across monasteries, forests, and high-altitude lakes. Discover the flora and fauna of this beautiful northeastern Indian state, home to native bird species such as the Himalayan Monal, Blood Pheasant, Rusty-flanked Treecreeper, and Chestnut-crowned Laughingthrush. Along the way, visit beautiful monasteries and scenic bird-watching spots while immersing yourself in Sikkim's local culture. Whether you're an experienced birder or just starting out, this journey offers a memorable way to experience one of India's best bird-watching destinations.

Set out on a journey to Tsomgo Lake, a pristine lake nestled among towering snow-capped mountains at 3,780 meters.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 7 Days
Tour type Shared
Activity level Moderate
Accommodation Included · Standard
Transport Included
Wheelchair access No
Cities Gangtok, Pelling
Languages Bengali, English, Hindi

Day by day

The itinerary

1
Day 01

Arrival in Bagdogra and Transfer to Gangtok

After arriving at Bagdogra airport, your tour guide will drive you to Gangtok, the capital city of Sikkim, where you can spend the day resting and getting used to the high altitude.

2
Day 02

Bird Watching at Rumtek and Lingdum Monasteries

After breakfast, take a scenic drive to the Rumtek Monastery in the tranquil hills of Sikkim. This magnificent monastery is known for its breathtaking views and diverse bird population, which includes the White-throated Bulbul, Grey Treepie, and Grey-winged Blackbird. Enjoy the soothing sounds of the birds and the peaceful surroundings.

Continue your journey to Lingdum Monastery, surrounded by verdant forests and home to a diverse range of bird species, including the Yellow-billed Blue Magpie and the Black-faced Warbler. Enjoy the ideal combination of scenic beauty and bird watching on this unforgettable journey.

3
Day 03

Bird Watching at Phodong and Labrang Monasteries

On this day, explore the Phodong Monastery, where you can witness the Fire-tailed Sunbird, Rufous-gorged Flycatcher, and Red-headed Bullfinch. The monastery's serene surroundings and the soothing sounds of birds create a peaceful atmosphere.

Visit Labrang Monastery, located in a dense forest, and admire the diverse bird species, including the Green-tailed Sunbird, Long-tailed Minivet, and Rusty-fronted Barwing.

4
Day 04

Bird Watching in Pelling

Embark on a scenic drive to the charming town of Pelling, nestled in the picturesque western part of Sikkim. Check into your comfortable hotel and prepare for an exciting day of bird-watching.

Explore the nearby lush forests, brimming with an incredible diversity of avian fauna. Keep your eyes peeled for the majestic Collared Grosbeak, the elusive Rusty-cheeked Scimitar Babbler, and the striking Himalayan Woodpecker, among many others.

Immerse yourself in the tranquil natural surroundings as you capture photographs of these mesmerizing winged creatures and create unforgettable memories of your bird-watching experience.

5
Day 05

Bird Watching at Khecheopalri Lake

Visit Khecheopalri Lake, a tranquil body of water revered by local Buddhists and surrounded by verdant forests. While birdwatching, discover various species such as the delightful Chestnut-crowned Laughingthrush, Rusty-flanked Treecreeper, and the striking Yellow-billed Blue Magpie.

Admire the natural beauty of this peaceful location while learning about its diverse birdlife for an unforgettable experience.

6
Day 06

Bird Watching at Tsomgo Lake and Baba Mandir

Set out on a journey to Tsomgo Lake, a pristine lake nestled among towering snow-capped mountains at 3,780 meters. This lake is a bird-watching paradise, home to many exotic bird species such as the Snow Partridge, Himalayan Monal, Blood Pheasant, and Red-billed Chough.

After admiring the breathtaking natural scenery and birdwatching, visit the Baba Mandir, a revered temple dedicated to a brave soldier who died during the Indo-China war. In addition to being a pilgrimage site, the Baba Mandir provides an excellent vantage point for viewing birds such as the Fire-tailed Sunbird, Spotted Nutcracker, and Alpine Thrush.

7
Day 07

Departure to Bagdogra

Today, you will be driven back to Bagdogra for your home flight.

Rumtek Monastery, Lingdum Monastery, Khecheopalri Lake, Tsomgo Lake at 3,780 meters

Where this trip takes you

Rumtek Monastery, Lingdum Monastery, Khecheopalri Lake, Tsomgo Lake at 3,780 meters

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map
Round trip from Bagdogra 2 cities · 7 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

  • Airport pickup and drop-off facilities
  • Accommodations during the trip
  • Welcome dinner
  • Guide for the entire trip
  • Transportation during the entire tour
  • All meals during the trip and breakfast on departure day

What's Not Included

  • Train tickets
  • Flight tickets
  • Travel insurance
  • Toiletries and medicines
  • Personal entertainment equipment
  • Personal beverages (alcoholic and non-alcoholic)
  • Any change in plan, visits to any additional places, and car hire
  • Tips for local guides, driver, and porters
  • Any recreational activities before and after the scheduled trip as per the itinerary

Logistics

Meeting & route

Meeting point
Gangtok, Sikkim, India
Tour start
Bagdogra, West Bengal, India
Tour ends at the same location as the start point.
End of the journey

Your 7 days finish where they began, in Bagdogra.

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