A lifetime opportunity to see a great many species of Siberian migratory birds
3 Nights 4 Days in the Koshi Tappu wildlife reserve.
Excellent bird watching sites in the wetlands and flood plains of Koshi River.
Jeep Safari inside the jungle
Boat Safari in Sapta Koshi River
Mesmerizing sunset view from the bank of Sapta Koshi River.
Possible encounter with Gangetic dolphins and wild water buffalos.
Picnic lunch at a pink tower overlooking the amazing view of Koshi plains.
Trip Facts
Trip Profile :Bird-Watching-5-Night-6-Days
Trip Type :Bird Watching, Wildlife Photography
Trip Duration :06 Days
Trip Route :Kathmandu - Biratnagar - Koshi Topu
Trek Accomodation :Hotel, Camping & Resort
Preferred Seasons :February to May and September to November
Transportation:Flight, Car & Jeep
Age Limit :No limits
Bird Watching in Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve provides an excellent opportunity to watch various species of birds. It is one of 27 Important Bird Areas of Nepal. In this area, around 527 species of resident and migratory birds have been recorded. At the same time, as many as 20 globally threatened bird species have been recorded in the Koshi Tappu and Koshi Barrage area. Moreover, we can sight eleven of these regularly.
This IBA is especially important for some wetland and grassland species, notably Swamp Francolin Francolinus Gularis, Baer’s Pochard Aythya Baeri, Pallas’s Fish Eagle Haliaeetus leucoryphus, Greater Spotted Eagle, Imperial Eagle Aquila heliaca, Lesser Adjutant, Spot-billed Pelican and Bristled Grassbird Chaetornis striatus. It holds the largest population of the globally threatened Swamp Francolin in Nepal. Additionally, This site is important to conserve Nepal’s 13 near-threatened birds.
Besides, the varieties of bird species, the reserve is also famous for Wild Water Buffalo. Also due to its location in flood plains of Koshi River the wetlands of this wildlife reserve are home to Crocodiles, River Dolphins, and various other aquatic fauna.
The best time to visit Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve for bird watching is from September to February. Many migratory birds can be seen in their natural habitat during these months of the year.
Major bird watching areas in Nepal:
Bird Watching Tour in Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve
Location:Southeast Low lands, Kathmandu, Nepal Best time to visit:Late January to late May
Bird Watching in Chitwan National Park
Location:South-central Nepal Best time to visit: October to May
Bird Watching in Phulchowki (2760 m)
Location:Edge of Kathmandu Valley, east-central Nepal Best time to visit:October to early May
Bird Watching in Shivapuri National Park (2730 m)
Location:Edge of Kathmandu Valley, east-central Nepal Best time to visit: October to early May
Itinerary of Bird Watching in Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve
1
Arrival in Kathmandu, Nepal
Set off for a new journey to Nepal to check out its serene beauty and the friendly hospitality of the Nepalese by yourself to confirm what you've read and seen online. Prepare to have a close-up encounter with Nepal. You must have an eager heart for an incredible adventure. After flying over this trekkers paradise's breathtaking scenery, you will meet our company representative at the airport who will assist and take you to your hotel.
If you arrive early, you can take a trip around Thamel's trendiest area, where you can discover restaurants serving a wide range of cuisine. You'll be spending your first night in Nepal in Kathmandu, the city of temples.
2
Fly to Biratnagar and drive to Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve
Breakfast at the hotel and fly to Biratnagar followed by a 2-hour drive to Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve. Pass through the beautiful villages, farms and stop by at the information center. You can get information about the wildlife inside the reserve and also see the preserved remains of the animals at the information center. Spend the rest of the day self-exploring and birding in the nearby areas.
The reserve is one of the places of Nepal where the birds from Siberia, China, and Mongolia during winter. These winter migratory birds are also one of the major attractions of this small protected area.
3
Boating in Sapta Koshi River and drive to Koshi Barrage.
The day starts with boating on the Sapta Koshi River observing birds, water buffalos, dolphins, and various other water habitats. After enjoying birding along with a packed breakfast by the river, you will head to Koshi Barrage to view some more birdlife and the beautiful views.
A picnic lunch will be arranged for you at the pink tower so that you can enjoy the lunch with amazing views.
4
Jungle safari and bird watching at the reserve
On this day you will explore the jungle by jeep while observing the wildlife. Capture and enjoy the beautiful flora and fauna available in the reserve. You will also be going near the swamps where you can watch water buffaloes and marsh muggers, etc while looking out for the rare species of birds.
The Koshi River is also home to Gangetic Dolphins and various waterfowls.
Later in the evening, the local indigenous community will entertain you with their cultural dance program at the hotel.
5
Drive to Biratnager and Fly to Kathmandu
After the completion of the Koshi Tappu Wildlife tour of bird watching, we will return back to Biratnagar followed by a flight back to Kathmandu.
Once you reach Kathmandu you will check in at a nice hotel around the Thamel area. In the evening you can stroll around for souvenir shopping, drinks, and dinner. Walking around Thamel and nearby areas for shopping and self-exploring the narrow streets of this tourist hub is a good idea to spend your evening in Kathmandu.
6
Departure
According to the time of your flight, we will drop you off at the airport. For a timely airport check-in, it is advised that you arrive at the airport at least two hours before your flight.
Tiger Encounter looks forward to taking you on a thrilling new wildlife safari in Nepal soon. Get in touch with us to quickly and easily design the most exciting tour in the upcoming days.
Cost Detail
Trip Includes
Airport picks up and transfers to the hotel.
Two night’s hotel accommodation in Kathmandu on twin sharing basis on BB plan
Private transport during sightseeing in Kathmandu
Kathmandu tour guide salary and allowance
Kathmandu- Biratnagar - Kathmandu flight ticket overland transportation by private vehicle as mentioned in the itinerary
3 night 4 days accommodation in Koshi Tappu.
Full board Veg/Non-veg basis accommodation in the entire Bird watching in Koshi Tappu.
All activities as mentioned in the itinerary are included
All entrance and National Park fees are included
All ground transport inside the national park
Professional government license holder English speaking tour guide.
Welcome/ farewell dinner in typical Nepali food and cultural program
Insurance for Nepalese staff. (Guide and driver )
Government Tax and office service charge.
Trip Excludes
International airfare to/ from Nepal.
Lunch and dinner in Kathmandu
Insurance which covers, medical, emergency evacuation, lost, etc.
Beverages, alcoholic drinks, mineral water, boiled water during the red panda tour.
Hot shower during the trekking.
All food and beverages; other than on the itinerary.
Extra night accommodation in Kathmandu because of early arrival, late departure, and early return from the mountain (due to any reason) than the scheduled itinerary.
Personal gear and expenses.
Tips and gratitude provided to staff.
Just Fill and Book
This is a pre-booking form for the lead traveler. We would send you the actual booking form after the confirmation
Destination Gallery
Location Detail
Tour Location
Description of the Location
The Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve is a protected area that lies in the Eastern part of mainly Terai of Nepal covering 175 sq km of wetlands in the Sunsari, Saptari, and Udayapur Districts. Its altitude ranges from 75 to 81 m. First, you will fly to Biratnagar airport from Kathmandu, and then you will be directly moved to Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve for about 2 hours.
What to Bring
Neutral colored clothing is recommended.
Light clothing is needed for the daytime with a sweater and warm jacket for the evenings from November to March.
Pants / Trousers are recommended for safari and jungle walk.
Comfortable walking shoes, sun hats, sunglasses, etc. are essential.
Insect repellent and personal medical requirements should be carried.
It is highly recommended to travel light with only one small suitcase or duffle bag.
During the warmer months, swimming suits are recommended.
A small flashlight is recommended.
Binoculars add greatly to your enjoyment for bird and wildlife viewing.
Just Fill and Book
This is a pre-booking form for the lead traveler. We would send you the actual booking form after the confirmation
What your client say about us.
Wonderful and unforgettable trip!
My wife and I wanted to visit Nepal at its best, living, feeling and enjoying this beatiful country and people, in the most possible comfort, safety and relax..but, at the same time, we were not looking for a trip of unnecessary and impersonal luxury, living all the time in an unreal “bubble”. After some research, Tiger encounters was our choice for a 2 weeks trip to Nepal, one week between Karhmandu and Pokhara, and one week safari in Bardia National park.
Mr. Ghanshyam, owner and director of Tiger Encounters, organized for us the best possible tours and experiences. He suggested and booked the proper premium hotels and lodges, visited the best places with top guides, fantastic choices! From the moment of booking the trip, until the very last minute before boarding our plane to come home, we always had a full and great support. Everything was seamless, spotless and perfect. We lived the best of the Himalaya and the wilderness of Bardia beeing always treated like royals, unbelievable !
Thank you very much for all the special moments we lived and enjoyed, we will come again for sure !
Dear Reader, if you are still here, means that you really wish to go to Nepal… in that case, do not hesitate any longer, contact Tiger Encounters right now, you will not regreat it !!!!
Nicola & MariaItaly
Snow Leopard Expedition in Nepal
I have to congratulate Ghanshyam on the great organization, from email communications, logistics and all the attention during the tour. Everything was organized in an excellent way and what I really appreciated was the availability and flexibility. I have travelled a lot, but few times have I met an agency so helpful to plan changes on site. Great drivers, careful driving.
Aashish, our guide, did everything to satisfy every request, always available and kind throughout the trip and very competent even during trekking in search of the Leopard. What about Tashi R. Ghale, a special person, tireless, did everything so that we could realize the dream of sighting the Leopard. It was an honor to meet him and be able to be with him, for me it was one of the best experiences of life. I would have hoped to see the Leopard more closely, but I realize how difficult it is and still being able to hear it during the calls of the mating season was exciting.
Thank you for everything and I can only recommend this agency “Tiger Encounter”!
Alessandra FarinaItaly
The most exciting journey of Snow Leopard and the most perfect service!
Together with Tiger Encounter we went to Nepal in the Annapurna National Park on the trail of the Snow Leopard and it was a magical experience where everything went smoothly. Organizing the trip of a lifetime is a wonderful challenge, but doing it with passionate, competent, and meticulous people who paid attention to every detail and our every wish, ensuring this was truly the trip of a lifetime, was truly fantastic! We were three of us along with me Alessan & Sandara.
These people really exist: they are the Tìger Encounter team.
Professionalism at the highest level, friendliness and respect, always open to any idea and always attentive to our safety.
You couldn’t ask for more.
Alberto CerioniReppubblica Italiana
One of the best tour companies I ever worked with
I’ve travelled to 50+ countries with dozens of tour operators – Ghanshyam and his team absolutely stood out. This was a demanding photography trip and everything was organised perfectly and flexibly when needed, with a lot of personal attention and excellent guides.
Florian KriechbaumerDubai
Bardia and Chitwan Photography Trip
I have traveled to many places in pursuit of photographing endangered species, and surprisingly, I did not have any images of the Bengal tiger. Many of my friends visited India for tiger safaris, but the crowded and hectic national parks discouraged me. After watching a BBC Planet Earth documentary, I discovered that Bengal tigers also exist in Nepal. Following many email exchanges with different tour operators in Nepal, I chose Tiger Encounter — and I am very happy that I made the right decision.
Ghanshyam was extremely flexible with my itinerary. I had to change my plans at least twice, and he accommodated every adjustment without hesitation or even a hint of frustration. He personally came to the airport to receive me and introduced me to my guide, Manju, who accompanied me throughout the entire trip. During the journey, Ghanshyam stayed in constant communication with the guide to ensure I was always well taken care of.
When I book a trip, I highly value creativity, resourcefulness, and flexibility. Not every trip goes perfectly smoothly, so when unexpected situations arise, the way they are handled matters greatly. Ghanshyam earned my trust because he managed every challenge in a way that exceeded my expectations.
Although I had to cut my trip short, I fully intend to return to Nepal, and Ghanshyam will absolutely be my first choice again.
With that said, I have no hesitation in highly recommending Tiger Encounter to anyone planning a trip to Nepal.
Ly DangUSA
Tiger Trip of a lifetime!
I spent 12 days exploring Nepal with Tiger Encounter and it was one of the most incredible trips in my life. They met us at the airport and didn’t leave our side the entire trip. Extremely organized and professional and I’m already planning on coming back. Best way to see tigers in the wild! Couldn’t recommend them enough.
Ryan ShirleyUSA
Tiger Safari in Bardia & Red Panda Trekking
I really wanted to find a local company who could make a personalised itinerary for my husband and I to do red panda trekking and a safari in Bardia National Park to see tigers (among other things). I would highly recommend Tiger Encounter for any trip to Nepal, but especially if you’re looking to encounter wildlife.
Ria & PeterNew Zealand
Outstanding Service
We recently returned from a 2 week private wildlife trekking and safari tour with Tiger Encounter, and couldn’t recommend them highly enough. We found them through a Google search and we are so glad that we did – we were so impressed! Tiger Encounter really offer such a personalised service and clearly care about their travellers.
Jessica & JamesUnited Kingdom
Great Experience with Tiger Encounter
Excellent safari in Chitwan and Bardia. Very professional company and we were looked after really well. Communication was easy and fast response. The guides on the safaris were brilliant and the accommodation was excellent. Can’t rate them highly enough.
Susan Joy BrownUnited Kingdom
The absolute best there is
I’ve been to 28 different countries and countless safaris over the world- let me tell you that this is the standard for every other safari I’ve been on since! The attention to detail, the absolute love and care of the guides, and the tour operator’s genuine wish for you to have the best experience possible made this one of the most amazing tours/safaris I’ve been on.
It was just as amazing to meet the locals and meet the Tharu people as it was to see the rhino and to be close up with an elephant!! (And That tiger that kept in front of our raft to cross the river!!) As an experienced traveler, take my word that you will have a genuinely wild and carefree adventure!!!???
Alison Michell HancockUSA
First Luxuries Jungle Safari Trip to Nepal
Had the most wonderful and life changing experience with Tiger Encounter. I had the wonderful opportunity to meet Mr. Sharma (owner) who had accompanied me as my guide throughout my adventure. They had planned everything so well and truly make you feel like family. Be it every step of the way from jeep safari, jungle walk, canoe ride, trek through the jungle, mountain trek Mr. Sharma is truly amazing guide, photographer and wonderful motivator. It goes without saying that your guide is your doorway to experiencing everything about the beautiful country you visit. Be it food, shopping, adventure or pleasure. I truly loved every moment of my time…and hope to return to this beautiful country with Tiger Encounter to many more adventures and celebrating a wonderful friendship. Hop you all have as amazing adventures and journeys with them. ?
Chithra SashiBahrain
Fantastic from beginning to end
Thank you Tiger Encounter team for another great experience in beautiful Nepal. We had amazing memories in Mt. Everest & Chitwan! We did wildlife safari, jeep safari, bird watching, village tour & cultural program. You are super professional, knowledgeable. Strongly recommend.
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