Sattal - Munsyari Winter Birding Tour 7Nights/8Days
Sattal - Munsyari Winter Birding Tour 7Nights/8Days
No. of days
8
Trip Type
#
Activity Level
Moderate
Experiences
Best time
October to April
Region
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Overview
This tour is designed to showcase the remarkable birdlife of Uttarakhand, covering two of the most rewarding birdwatching destinations of North India — Sattal and Munsyari. While Sattal, lying in the lush oak and pine forests, is home to more than 500 bird species, winters make this area even more exciting as many Himalayan birds move down from higher altitudes, joining the already rich resident birdlife. Birding here offers a mix of hide sessions, forest trails, and riverside exploration with good chances of owls, laughing thrushes, woodpeckers, and colorful finches.
From Sattal, we travel higher into the mountains to Munsyari, a scenic town known for the spectacular views of the snow-clad Panchachuli peaks. The birding here is very different – the habitats include terraced farms, open alpine slopes, river valleys, and the unique Miyawaki forest, which attracts a variety of small passerines along with Himalayan and endemic species. Winter visitors such as rosefinches, accentors, thrushes, tragopans, and even vultures make Munsyari a paradise for birders.
Along with birds, Munsyari also offers opportunities to spot some of the region’s mammals such as Himalayan goral, barking deer, yellow-throated marten, golden jackal, and occasionally red fox or Himalayan weasel.
This combination of lower Himalayan forests and high-altitude landscapes offers a great variety of birds and wildlife – from tiny warblers and sunbirds to elusive pheasants and raptors – all in one trip. Along with the rich avian life, you’ll enjoy snowy mountain views, village life, and peaceful forest trails.
Trip Highlights
- Experience the most rewarding birdwatching hotspots in the Kumaon Himalayas of India
- The birding is a mix of bird hides and forest trails, giving you varied experiences.
- Look out for dazzling Himalayan species – from the iconic Tawny-fish owl and vibrant sunbirds to the striking Finches and many more.
- Encounter rare and endemic pheasants of the region, including Kalij, Koklass, and the endangered Cheer Pheasant.
- Be guided by a local expert Bird Guide who knows the best birding spots and try its best to tick off your all targeted species.
- Witness Breathtaking Himalayan landscapes throughout the trip.
- Explore the hill town of Nainital, known for its scenic lakes, vibrant culture, and bustling local markets.
- This tour is designed with flexibility, to extend or shorten the duration. Share your target species with us, and we’ll design the plan around your interests..
- The trip involves an easy level of walking, suitable for everyone from kids to seniors.
Image Galllery
Itinerary
Day 1 – Arrival & Sattal Studio Trail Birding
We will start our journey with an afternoon arrival at Sattal. After settling in, we’ll head out on the Studio Trail, a quiet forested path ideal for spotting the region’s vibrant resident and migratory birds. Here, we can look for Chestnut-headed Tesia, Common Green Magpie, Rusty-cheeked Scimitar Babbler, Rufous-chinned Laughingthrush, Black-chinned Babbler, Russet Sparrow, Chestnut-bellied Nuthatch, and Common Rosefinch.
Overnight at Sattal.
Day 2 – Sattal Bend Trail & Chanfi Region Birding
We will start the morning on the Sattal Bend Trail, Our target species include Rufous-throated Partridge, Brown-fronted Woodpecker , Lesser and Greater Yellownape, Red Junglefowl, Rufous-bellied Niltava, White-throated Laughingthrush, Speckled Piculet, Bar-winged Flycatcher Shrike, Mountain Hawk-Eagle, Orange-bellied Leafbird, Rufous-gorgeted Flycatcher, Red-billed Lieothrix and Himalayan Parakeets
In the evening, we will explore the Chanfi region, where dense vegetation along with rivers and streams makes a great habitat for owls and forktails. Here, we can look for Asian Barred Owlet, Brown Fish Owl, Tawny Fish Owl, Crested Kingfisher, Slaty-backed Forktail, Little Forktail, Spotted Forktail, and various tits and warblers.
Overnight at Sattal.
Day 3 – Shyamkhet Region Birding
We will start the day in the Shyamkhet area, walking through villages rich in fruiting trees and birdlife. This quiet region is excellent for forest and songbirds including European Goldfinch, Maroon Oriole, Great Barbet, Blue-throated Barbet, Yellow-breasted Greenfinch, Green-tailed Sunbird, Scaly Thrush, Mistle Thrush, Black Eagle, and Scaly-bellied Woodpecker.
Later, we will spend the evening in Ramgarh, exploring its beautiful orchards and wooded valleys. We will search for forest birds such as the Black-chinned Babbler, Black-faced Warbler, Collared Owlet,(Asia’s Smallest Owlet) Rufous-bellied Woodpecker, Himalayan Woodpecker, Mountain Bulbul, Fire-breasted Flowerpecker, Black-throated Tit, Striated Laughingthrush, Buff-barred Warbler, and Ashy-throated Warbler.
Overnight at Sattal.
Day 4 – Drive to Munsyari
We will set out early from Sattal and begin our scenic drive of approximately 180 kilometers to Munsyari, at an altitude of around 2,200 meters. The journey takes us through beautiful Himalayan valleys, pine forests, and beautiful villages, offering stunning views of snow-capped peaks and waterfalls along the way. We will enjoy breakfast and lunch en route.
Upon arrival in Munsyari, we will check in to our hotel and relax with a cup of tea before taking a gentle walk to explore the town.
Overnight at Munsyari.
Day 5 – Monal Point Birding
We will start birding around Munsyari town, the landscape offers a mix of endemic birds and Himalayan visitors. Our primary target is the Himalayan Monal. We will also be on the lookout for the very elusive Satyr Tragopan, a shy and rare pheasant that inhabits the higher altitudes of this region.
In the evening we expect to see Himalayan Cutia, Green-tailed Sunbird, Spot-winged Rosefinch, Yellow-billed Blue Magpie, Chestnut-bellied Rock Thrush, Rufous-bellied Woodpecker, Koklass Pheasant, Himalayan Woodpecker, Altai Accentor.
Overnight at Munsyari.
Day 6 – Kalamuni & Khaliya Trail Birding
We will start by heading up to Kalamuni, a high-altitude area, perfect for spotting upland species like Himalayan Griffon, Cheer Pheasant, Scaly-bellied Woodpecker, and Bearded Vulture.
Later, in the evening we’ll explore the Khaliya Trail, a beautiful forested ridge famous for its panoramic mountain views and rich wildlife. Expect to see Rusty-flanked Treecreeper, Himalayan Woodpecker, Yellow-browed Tit, Winter Wren, Collared Grosbeak, Brown Bullfinch, and various other small birds and raptors.
Overnight at Munsyari.
Day 7 – Thal Route Birding & Return to Sattal
We will start the day birding along the road from Munsyari to Thal, which passes through diverse habitats of mixed forest, riverbanks, and open woodlands. Look for Speckled Wood Pigeon, White-browed Fulvetta, Collared Owlet, Scaly-breasted Wren Babbler, Golden Bush Robin, and more.
After our birding session, we’ll make the return journey to Sattal for a restful overnight stay.
Overnight at Sattal.
Day 8 – Nainital Birding & Departure
We will start our final day with a short visit to the Nainital forest patches, known for their winter birdlife and scenic lake-side views. Here, we’ll search for Vinaceous Rosefinch, Chestnut Thrush, Black-throated Thrush, White-collared Blackbird, and other visitors before concluding the tour and transferring you to your onward destination.
No. of days
8
Trip Type
#
Activity Level
Moderate
Experiences
Best time
October to April
Region
Overview
This tour is designed to showcase the remarkable birdlife of Uttarakhand, covering two of the most rewarding birdwatching destinations of North India — Sattal and Munsyari. While Sattal, lying in the lush oak and pine forests, is home to more than 500 bird species, winters make this area even more exciting as many Himalayan birds move down from higher altitudes, joining the already rich resident birdlife. Birding here offers a mix of hide sessions, forest trails, and riverside exploration with good chances of owls, laughing thrushes, woodpeckers, and colorful finches.
From Sattal, we travel higher into the mountains to Munsyari, a scenic town known for the spectacular views of the snow-clad Panchachuli peaks. The birding here is very different – the habitats include terraced farms, open alpine slopes, river valleys, and the unique Miyawaki forest, which attracts a variety of small passerines along with Himalayan and endemic species. Winter visitors such as rosefinches, accentors, thrushes, tragopans, and even vultures make Munsyari a paradise for birders.
Along with birds, Munsyari also offers opportunities to spot some of the region’s mammals such as Himalayan goral, barking deer, yellow-throated marten, golden jackal, and occasionally red fox or Himalayan weasel.
This combination of lower Himalayan forests and high-altitude landscapes offers a great variety of birds and wildlife – from tiny warblers and sunbirds to elusive pheasants and raptors – all in one trip. Along with the rich avian life, you’ll enjoy snowy mountain views, village life, and peaceful forest trails.
Trip Highlights
- Experience the most rewarding birdwatching hotspots in the Kumaon Himalayas of India
- The birding is a mix of bird hides and forest trails, giving you varied experiences.
- Look out for dazzling Himalayan species – from the iconic Tawny-fish owl and vibrant sunbirds to the striking Finches and many more.
- Encounter rare and endemic pheasants of the region, including Kalij, Koklass, and the endangered Cheer Pheasant.
- Be guided by a local expert Bird Guide who knows the best birding spots and try its best to tick off your all targeted species.
- Witness Breathtaking Himalayan landscapes throughout the trip.
- Explore the hill town of Nainital, known for its scenic lakes, vibrant culture, and bustling local markets.
- This tour is designed with flexibility, to extend or shorten the duration. Share your target species with us, and we’ll design the plan around your interests..
- The trip involves an easy level of walking, suitable for everyone from kids to seniors.
Image Galllery
Itinerary
Day 1 – Arrival & Sattal Studio Trail Birding
We will start our journey with an afternoon arrival at Sattal. After settling in, we’ll head out on the Studio Trail, a quiet forested path ideal for spotting the region’s vibrant resident and migratory birds. Here, we can look for Chestnut-headed Tesia, Common Green Magpie, Rusty-cheeked Scimitar Babbler, Rufous-chinned Laughingthrush, Black-chinned Babbler, Russet Sparrow, Chestnut-bellied Nuthatch, and Common Rosefinch.
Overnight at Sattal.
Day 2 – Sattal Bend Trail & Chanfi Region Birding
We will start the morning on the Sattal Bend Trail, Our target species include Rufous-throated Partridge, Brown-fronted Woodpecker , Lesser and Greater Yellownape, Red Junglefowl, Rufous-bellied Niltava, White-throated Laughingthrush, Speckled Piculet, Bar-winged Flycatcher Shrike, Mountain Hawk-Eagle, Orange-bellied Leafbird, Rufous-gorgeted Flycatcher, Red-billed Lieothrix and Himalayan Parakeets
In the evening, we will explore the Chanfi region, where dense vegetation along with rivers and streams makes a great habitat for owls and forktails. Here, we can look for Asian Barred Owlet, Brown Fish Owl, Tawny Fish Owl, Crested Kingfisher, Slaty-backed Forktail, Little Forktail, Spotted Forktail, and various tits and warblers.
Overnight at Sattal.
Day 3 – Shyamkhet Region Birding
We will start the day in the Shyamkhet area, walking through villages rich in fruiting trees and birdlife. This quiet region is excellent for forest and songbirds including European Goldfinch, Maroon Oriole, Great Barbet, Blue-throated Barbet, Yellow-breasted Greenfinch, Green-tailed Sunbird, Scaly Thrush, Mistle Thrush, Black Eagle, and Scaly-bellied Woodpecker.
Later, we will spend the evening in Ramgarh, exploring its beautiful orchards and wooded valleys. We will search for forest birds such as the Black-chinned Babbler, Black-faced Warbler, Collared Owlet,(Asia’s Smallest Owlet) Rufous-bellied Woodpecker, Himalayan Woodpecker, Mountain Bulbul, Fire-breasted Flowerpecker, Black-throated Tit, Striated Laughingthrush, Buff-barred Warbler, and Ashy-throated Warbler.
Overnight at Sattal.
Day 4 – Drive to Munsyari
We will set out early from Sattal and begin our scenic drive of approximately 180 kilometers to Munsyari, at an altitude of around 2,200 meters. The journey takes us through beautiful Himalayan valleys, pine forests, and beautiful villages, offering stunning views of snow-capped peaks and waterfalls along the way. We will enjoy breakfast and lunch en route.
Upon arrival in Munsyari, we will check in to our hotel and relax with a cup of tea before taking a gentle walk to explore the town.
Overnight at Munsyari.
Day 5 – Monal Point Birding
We will start birding around Munsyari town, the landscape offers a mix of endemic birds and Himalayan visitors. Our primary target is the Himalayan Monal. We will also be on the lookout for the very elusive Satyr Tragopan, a shy and rare pheasant that inhabits the higher altitudes of this region.
In the evening we expect to see Himalayan Cutia, Green-tailed Sunbird, Spot-winged Rosefinch, Yellow-billed Blue Magpie, Chestnut-bellied Rock Thrush, Rufous-bellied Woodpecker, Koklass Pheasant, Himalayan Woodpecker, Altai Accentor.
Overnight at Munsyari.
Day 6 – Kalamuni & Khaliya Trail Birding
We will start by heading up to Kalamuni, a high-altitude area, perfect for spotting upland species like Himalayan Griffon, Cheer Pheasant, Scaly-bellied Woodpecker, and Bearded Vulture.
Later, in the evening we’ll explore the Khaliya Trail, a beautiful forested ridge famous for its panoramic mountain views and rich wildlife. Expect to see Rusty-flanked Treecreeper, Himalayan Woodpecker, Yellow-browed Tit, Winter Wren, Collared Grosbeak, Brown Bullfinch, and various other small birds and raptors.
Overnight at Munsyari.
Day 7 – Thal Route Birding & Return to Sattal
We will start the day birding along the road from Munsyari to Thal, which passes through diverse habitats of mixed forest, riverbanks, and open woodlands. Look for Speckled Wood Pigeon, White-browed Fulvetta, Collared Owlet, Scaly-breasted Wren Babbler, Golden Bush Robin, and more.
After our birding session, we’ll make the return journey to Sattal for a restful overnight stay.
Overnight at Sattal.
Day 8 – Nainital Birding & Departure
We will start our final day with a short visit to the Nainital forest patches, known for their winter birdlife and scenic lake-side views. Here, we’ll search for Vinaceous Rosefinch, Chestnut Thrush, Black-throated Thrush, White-collared Blackbird, and other visitors before concluding the tour and transferring you to your onward destination.
