Spiti Birding & Wildlife Winter Tour 10Nights/11Days
Spiti Birding & Wildlife Winter Tour 10Nights/11Days
No. of days
8
Trip Type
#
Activity Level
Moderate
Experiences
Best time
October to April
Region
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Overview
The Spiti Valley in Himachal Pradesh is one of the most magical and remote regions of India. Known as the “Land Between Tibet and India,” Spiti lies high in the trans-Himalayan belt at altitudes ranging between 3,000 to 4,500 meters. This cold desert valley is surrounded by towering snow-capped peaks, ancient Buddhist monasteries, deep gorges, and breathtaking landscapes that feel otherworldly.
What makes Spiti a unique birding and wildlife destination is the mix of habitats you encounter along the journey. Starting from the lush forests around Chakki Morh and Narkanda, you gradually climb into river valleys like Sangla and Rakchham, before entering the stark but awe-inspiring high-altitude deserts of Nako, Kaza, and Kibber. Each region supports special species adapted to its conditions.
The forests of Narkanda are home to colorful Himalayan birds such as Black & Yellow Grosbeak, White-cheeked Nuthatch, Collared Owlet, and White-throated Tit, while the alpine meadows and cliffs of Chitkul host Snow Pigeons, Himalayan Beautiful Rosefinches, Goldcrests, and many more. As you progress deeper into the desert landscapes of Spiti, you may spot rare high-altitude specialists like the Himalayan Snowcock, Tibetan Snowfinch, Great Rosefinch, Robin Accentor, and raptors circling dramatically above the valleys.
But Spiti’s most extraordinary wildlife attraction lies near Kibber Wildlife Sanctuary — famous for being one of the best places on earth to spot the elusive Snow Leopard. Kibber is also home to Himalayan Ibex, Red Fox, and a variety of mountain ungulates that survive in this rugged terrain.
Staying in local homestays and lodges, birdwatchers and wildlife photographers will also get to experience Spitian hospitality, Tibetan Buddhist culture, and awe-inspiring star-studded skies that are some of the clearest in the world.
This 11-day Spiti Birding & Wildlife Tour is designed to maximize opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife sightings across diverse habitats while also offering travelers the chance to immerse themselves in the magical charm of Spiti.
Trip Highlights
- Explore the diverse habitats of Spiti Valley – from thick Himalayan forests to alpine meadows, mountain gorges, and cold deserts.
- Spot iconic Himalayan bird species: Snow Cock, Tibetan Snowfinch, Chukar, Goldcrest, Green Shrike Babbler, White-cheeked Nuthatch, Great Rosefinch, and many more.
- Special wildlife photography opportunities in Kibber Wildlife Sanctuary, home to Snow Leopards, Ibex, and Himalayan Wolf.
- Discover the magical charm of villages like Chitkul, Rakchham, Nako, Kaza, Kibber, and Langza.
- Visit the stunning Nako Lake and enjoy some of the best high-altitude landscapes in India.
- Experience local Spitian lifestyle, Buddhist monasteries, and warm village hospitality.
- Nights under the unpolluted skies of Spiti, offering world-class stargazing.
Image Galllery
Itinerary
Day 1: Chandigarh – Narkanda | Our First Step into the Himalayas
We begin our journey as we get picked up from Chandigarh Airport/Railway Station and make our way toward the Spiti Himalayas. As the roads climb steadily into pine and oak forests, the air becomes crisp and filled with calls of himalayan birds. We stop on the way for short birding sessions around Chakki Morh, enjoying our first sightings of lively Himalayan species.
By evening, we reach Narkanda, a small charming town surrounded by orchards and alpine forests — our home for the night.
Target Birds: Varied Tit, Himalayan Bulbul, Kalij Pheasant, Grey-hooded Warbler.
Day 2: Exploring Narkanda Forests (A Day of Forest Birding)
Today we dedicate the whole day to exploring the serene forests of Narkanda and Hatu Peak. As we walk through pine, oak, and spruce woods, we listen carefully to bird calls echoing in the silence. We follow mixed hunting flocks as they move excitedly through the canopy and photograph colorful grosbeaks perched on branches.
In the afternoon, we explore peaceful village trails and apple orchards where songbirds are equally rewarding. The day gives us a perfect introduction to mid-altitude Himalayan forests.
Target Birds: White-cheeked Nuthatch, Black & Yellow Grosbeak, Green Shrike Babbler, White-throated Tit, Grey-crested Tit, Collared Owlet.
Day 3: Narkanda – Rakchham | Scenic Drive & Forest-to-Valley Birding
We start our morning with another short birding session in Narkanda before hitting the road toward Rakchham in Sangla Valley. The scenery changes dramatically as we drive along the Satluj River, with deep gorges, forested slopes, and cascading streams providing new habitats for birdlife.
We pause en route to scan riversides and cliffs for thrushes, partridges, and raptors. By evening, we reach Rakchham, where peaceful meadows and the Baspa River set the tone for tomorrow’s birding adventure.
Target Birds: Blue Whistling Thrush, Russet Sparrow, Himalayan Griffon, Black Kite.
Day 4: Rakchham – Chitkul | Birding in Alpine Meadows
This morning we explored the landscapes of Rakchham and Sangla Valley, rich in alpine meadows, riverside vegetation, and rocky slopes. We carefully scan the cliffs and grasslands for flocks of high-altitude birds.
Afterward, we drive further to Chitkul, the last Indian village near the Indo-Tibet border, where the scenery becomes truly breathtaking.
Here, we spend our time birding along the riverbed and open fields, enjoying both rare species and stunning photography opportunities against a backdrop of snow-capped peaks.
Target Birds: Snow Pigeons, Himalayan Beautiful Rosefinch, Goldcrest, White-collared Blackbird, Accentors.
Day 5: Chitkul – Nako | Journey Toward the Cold Desert
We begin the day with morning birding in Chitkul, wandering by the riverside as golden sunlight falls on the valley. After breakfast, we set out toward the village of Nako, entering the magnificent cold desert landscapes of Spiti. The lush forest cover gives way to barren, rocky mountains that feel wild and untouched.
As we make our way, we stop often along the road to observe buntings and serins. By evening, we arrive in Nako, a peaceful high-altitude village with its famous lake surrounded by prayer wheels and chortens.
Target Birds: Fire-fronted Serin, Rock Bunting, Brown Dipper.
Day 6: Nako – Kaza | Birding the High-Altitude Desert
We start our day with relaxed birding near Nako Lake, where several alpine species can be found. Then we continue our journey toward Kaza, driving through barren yet breathtaking Himalayan vistas.
On the way, we stop at cliffs and riverbeds to look for wheatears, accentors, and larks. By late afternoon, we roll into Kaza (3,800m), the heart of Spiti Valley, where we’ll spend the night under one of the clearest skies we’ll ever see.
Target Birds: Mountain Chiffchaff, White-winged Redstart, Horned Lark.
Day 7: Exploring Kaza | High-Altitude Specialties of Spiti
Today is an exciting day dedicated to exploring the unique birdlife around Kaza. We start with an early excursion toward Chicham and nearby gorges, where Tibetan plateau bird specialties thrive. As we scan the open terrains, we are rewarded with sightings of ground-nesting birds and raptors soaring magnificently above us.
In the afternoon, we explore meadows and streams near the villages. Here, we encounter species that are rarely seen elsewhere in India, making it a highlight of the trip.
Target Birds: Chukar, Himalayan Snowcock, Tibetan Snowfinch, Twite, Great Rosefinch, Robin Accentor, Lammergeier.
Day 8: Kibber Wildlife Sanctuary | In Search of the Snow Leopard
Today we head to Kibber Wildlife Sanctuary, one of the world’s best places to spot the enigmatic Snow Leopard. We rise early to scan the ridgelines and cliffs, guided by local spotters familiar with the terrain. The thrill of waiting with binoculars, looking for movement across rocky slopes, is unforgettable.
Alongside the Snow Leopard, we may encounter Himalayan Ibex grazing fearlessly, Red Fox darting across meadows, and enormous raptors riding thermal winds. Photography opportunities are endless here.
Target Birds: Snow Partridge, Golden Eagle, Hill Pigeon.
Wildlife: Snow Leopard (chance sighting), Himalayan Ibex, Red Fox, Woolly Hare.
Day 9: Kaza – Nako | Birding with Fossils & Desert Views
We leave Kaza after an early morning birding session near Langza, famous for its fossil fields and wide landscape views. Along the way, we stop to watch raptors soaring and desert buntings flitting among rocks. By evening, we return to Nako, where the tranquil lake reflects the starlit night sky.
Target Birds: Rock Bunting, Golden Eagle, Chukar, Grey Wagtail.
Day 10: Nako – Narkanda | From Desert Back to Forests
Today is a long but beautiful journey as we leave the cold desert behind and gradually enter greener valleys again. Along the way, we stop at open scrub and rocky terrains to look for high-altitude birds descending in migration.
By evening, we find ourselves back in Narkanda, where the comfort of alpine forests greets us once more.
Target Birds: White-capped Bunting, Pied Wheatear, Blue Rock Thrush, Common Swift.
Day 11: Narkanda – Chandigarh | Our Final Birding Walk
On our last morning, we took an easy birding walk through the forests of Narkanda. Surrounded by tall conifers and birdsong, we reflect on the incredible journey that has taken us through forests, valleys, and the stark deserts of Spiti.
After breakfast, we drive back to Chandigarh, marking the end of our unforgettable Spiti Birding & Wildlife Tour.
No. of days
8
Trip Type
#
Activity Level
Moderate
Experiences
Best time
October to April
Region
Overview
The Spiti Valley in Himachal Pradesh is one of the most magical and remote regions of India. Known as the “Land Between Tibet and India,” Spiti lies high in the trans-Himalayan belt at altitudes ranging between 3,000 to 4,500 meters. This cold desert valley is surrounded by towering snow-capped peaks, ancient Buddhist monasteries, deep gorges, and breathtaking landscapes that feel otherworldly.
What makes Spiti a unique birding and wildlife destination is the mix of habitats you encounter along the journey. Starting from the lush forests around Chakki Morh and Narkanda, you gradually climb into river valleys like Sangla and Rakchham, before entering the stark but awe-inspiring high-altitude deserts of Nako, Kaza, and Kibber. Each region supports special species adapted to its conditions.
The forests of Narkanda are home to colorful Himalayan birds such as Black & Yellow Grosbeak, White-cheeked Nuthatch, Collared Owlet, and White-throated Tit, while the alpine meadows and cliffs of Chitkul host Snow Pigeons, Himalayan Beautiful Rosefinches, Goldcrests, and many more. As you progress deeper into the desert landscapes of Spiti, you may spot rare high-altitude specialists like the Himalayan Snowcock, Tibetan Snowfinch, Great Rosefinch, Robin Accentor, and raptors circling dramatically above the valleys.
But Spiti’s most extraordinary wildlife attraction lies near Kibber Wildlife Sanctuary — famous for being one of the best places on earth to spot the elusive Snow Leopard. Kibber is also home to Himalayan Ibex, Red Fox, and a variety of mountain ungulates that survive in this rugged terrain.
Staying in local homestays and lodges, birdwatchers and wildlife photographers will also get to experience Spitian hospitality, Tibetan Buddhist culture, and awe-inspiring star-studded skies that are some of the clearest in the world.
This 11-day Spiti Birding & Wildlife Tour is designed to maximize opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife sightings across diverse habitats while also offering travelers the chance to immerse themselves in the magical charm of Spiti.
Trip Highlights
- Explore the diverse habitats of Spiti Valley – from thick Himalayan forests to alpine meadows, mountain gorges, and cold deserts.
- Spot iconic Himalayan bird species: Snow Cock, Tibetan Snowfinch, Chukar, Goldcrest, Green Shrike Babbler, White-cheeked Nuthatch, Great Rosefinch, and many more.
- Special wildlife photography opportunities in Kibber Wildlife Sanctuary, home to Snow Leopards, Ibex, and Himalayan Wolf.
- Discover the magical charm of villages like Chitkul, Rakchham, Nako, Kaza, Kibber, and Langza.
- Visit the stunning Nako Lake and enjoy some of the best high-altitude landscapes in India.
- Experience local Spitian lifestyle, Buddhist monasteries, and warm village hospitality.
- Nights under the unpolluted skies of Spiti, offering world-class stargazing.
Image Galllery
Itinerary
Day 1: Chandigarh – Narkanda | Our First Step into the Himalayas
We begin our journey as we get picked up from Chandigarh Airport/Railway Station and make our way toward the Spiti Himalayas. As the roads climb steadily into pine and oak forests, the air becomes crisp and filled with calls of himalayan birds. We stop on the way for short birding sessions around Chakki Morh, enjoying our first sightings of lively Himalayan species.
By evening, we reach Narkanda, a small charming town surrounded by orchards and alpine forests — our home for the night.
Target Birds: Varied Tit, Himalayan Bulbul, Kalij Pheasant, Grey-hooded Warbler.
Day 2: Exploring Narkanda Forests (A Day of Forest Birding)
Today we dedicate the whole day to exploring the serene forests of Narkanda and Hatu Peak. As we walk through pine, oak, and spruce woods, we listen carefully to bird calls echoing in the silence. We follow mixed hunting flocks as they move excitedly through the canopy and photograph colorful grosbeaks perched on branches.
In the afternoon, we explore peaceful village trails and apple orchards where songbirds are equally rewarding. The day gives us a perfect introduction to mid-altitude Himalayan forests.
Target Birds: White-cheeked Nuthatch, Black & Yellow Grosbeak, Green Shrike Babbler, White-throated Tit, Grey-crested Tit, Collared Owlet.
Day 3: Narkanda – Rakchham | Scenic Drive & Forest-to-Valley Birding
We start our morning with another short birding session in Narkanda before hitting the road toward Rakchham in Sangla Valley. The scenery changes dramatically as we drive along the Satluj River, with deep gorges, forested slopes, and cascading streams providing new habitats for birdlife.
We pause en route to scan riversides and cliffs for thrushes, partridges, and raptors. By evening, we reach Rakchham, where peaceful meadows and the Baspa River set the tone for tomorrow’s birding adventure.
Target Birds: Blue Whistling Thrush, Russet Sparrow, Himalayan Griffon, Black Kite.
Day 4: Rakchham – Chitkul | Birding in Alpine Meadows
This morning we explored the landscapes of Rakchham and Sangla Valley, rich in alpine meadows, riverside vegetation, and rocky slopes. We carefully scan the cliffs and grasslands for flocks of high-altitude birds.
Afterward, we drive further to Chitkul, the last Indian village near the Indo-Tibet border, where the scenery becomes truly breathtaking.
Here, we spend our time birding along the riverbed and open fields, enjoying both rare species and stunning photography opportunities against a backdrop of snow-capped peaks.
Target Birds: Snow Pigeons, Himalayan Beautiful Rosefinch, Goldcrest, White-collared Blackbird, Accentors.
Day 5: Chitkul – Nako | Journey Toward the Cold Desert
We begin the day with morning birding in Chitkul, wandering by the riverside as golden sunlight falls on the valley. After breakfast, we set out toward the village of Nako, entering the magnificent cold desert landscapes of Spiti. The lush forest cover gives way to barren, rocky mountains that feel wild and untouched.
As we make our way, we stop often along the road to observe buntings and serins. By evening, we arrive in Nako, a peaceful high-altitude village with its famous lake surrounded by prayer wheels and chortens.
Target Birds: Fire-fronted Serin, Rock Bunting, Brown Dipper.
Day 6: Nako – Kaza | Birding the High-Altitude Desert
We start our day with relaxed birding near Nako Lake, where several alpine species can be found. Then we continue our journey toward Kaza, driving through barren yet breathtaking Himalayan vistas.
On the way, we stop at cliffs and riverbeds to look for wheatears, accentors, and larks. By late afternoon, we roll into Kaza (3,800m), the heart of Spiti Valley, where we’ll spend the night under one of the clearest skies we’ll ever see.
Target Birds: Mountain Chiffchaff, White-winged Redstart, Horned Lark.
Day 7: Exploring Kaza | High-Altitude Specialties of Spiti
Today is an exciting day dedicated to exploring the unique birdlife around Kaza. We start with an early excursion toward Chicham and nearby gorges, where Tibetan plateau bird specialties thrive. As we scan the open terrains, we are rewarded with sightings of ground-nesting birds and raptors soaring magnificently above us.
In the afternoon, we explore meadows and streams near the villages. Here, we encounter species that are rarely seen elsewhere in India, making it a highlight of the trip.
Target Birds: Chukar, Himalayan Snowcock, Tibetan Snowfinch, Twite, Great Rosefinch, Robin Accentor, Lammergeier.
Day 8: Kibber Wildlife Sanctuary | In Search of the Snow Leopard
Today we head to Kibber Wildlife Sanctuary, one of the world’s best places to spot the enigmatic Snow Leopard. We rise early to scan the ridgelines and cliffs, guided by local spotters familiar with the terrain. The thrill of waiting with binoculars, looking for movement across rocky slopes, is unforgettable.
Alongside the Snow Leopard, we may encounter Himalayan Ibex grazing fearlessly, Red Fox darting across meadows, and enormous raptors riding thermal winds. Photography opportunities are endless here.
Target Birds: Snow Partridge, Golden Eagle, Hill Pigeon.
Wildlife: Snow Leopard (chance sighting), Himalayan Ibex, Red Fox, Woolly Hare.
Day 9: Kaza – Nako | Birding with Fossils & Desert Views
We leave Kaza after an early morning birding session near Langza, famous for its fossil fields and wide landscape views. Along the way, we stop to watch raptors soaring and desert buntings flitting among rocks. By evening, we return to Nako, where the tranquil lake reflects the starlit night sky.
Target Birds: Rock Bunting, Golden Eagle, Chukar, Grey Wagtail.
Day 10: Nako – Narkanda | From Desert Back to Forests
Today is a long but beautiful journey as we leave the cold desert behind and gradually enter greener valleys again. Along the way, we stop at open scrub and rocky terrains to look for high-altitude birds descending in migration.
By evening, we find ourselves back in Narkanda, where the comfort of alpine forests greets us once more.
Target Birds: White-capped Bunting, Pied Wheatear, Blue Rock Thrush, Common Swift.
Day 11: Narkanda – Chandigarh | Our Final Birding Walk
On our last morning, we took an easy birding walk through the forests of Narkanda. Surrounded by tall conifers and birdsong, we reflect on the incredible journey that has taken us through forests, valleys, and the stark deserts of Spiti.
After breakfast, we drive back to Chandigarh, marking the end of our unforgettable Spiti Birding & Wildlife Tour.
