Bhutan's strict conservation policy has preserved genuine wilderness across much of the country, and this 7-day tour combines the rare black-necked cranes of Phobjikha Valley with the biodiverse lowland jungle of Royal Manas National Park.
The Bhutan Wildlife and Nature Tour is a 7-day trip in Paro, Phobjikha Valley and Royal Manas National Park, Bhutan, rated easy, wildlife viewing and light nature walks difficulty, reaching a maximum elevation of Phobjikha Valley, 2,900m. The best time to do this trip is November - February for black-necked cranes; October - April for Royal Manas. The package includes group sizes of 1-10 people, hotels and eco-lodges throughout accommodation, breakfast, lunch and dinner included daily.
| Country | Paro, Phobjikha Valley and Royal Manas National Park, Bhutan |
|---|---|
| Difficulty | Easy, wildlife viewing and light nature walks |
| Max Elevation | Phobjikha Valley, 2,900m |
| Duration | 7 |
| Best Time | November - February for black-necked cranes; October - April for Royal Manas |
| Meals | Breakfast, lunch and dinner included daily |
| Accommodation | Hotels and eco-lodges throughout |
| Group Size | 1-10 people |
When is the best time to see black-necked cranes in Bhutan?
Bhutan's constitutional commitment to maintaining at least 60 percent forest cover has preserved some of the most intact wilderness remaining anywhere in the Himalaya, and this 7-day tour showcases two of the country's most significant natural destinations: Phobjikha Valley, wintering ground of the rare black-necked crane, and Royal Manas National Park, Bhutan's oldest and most biodiverse protected area.
Few countries combine such strict environmental protection with genuine biodiversity across such varied ecosystems, from high alpine valleys to subtropical lowland jungle, all within a single, compact itinerary.
This tour suits wildlife enthusiasts and birdwatchers wanting genuine nature experiences beyond Bhutan's standard cultural circuit, requiring only easy fitness for light nature walks and wildlife viewing.
| Tour | Duration | Focus |
|---|---|---|
| Wildlife and Nature Tour | 7 days | Black-necked cranes, Royal Manas wildlife |
| Standard Cultural Tour | 6 days | Dzongs, monasteries, Tiger's Nest |
The Wildlife and Nature Tour trades some of the standard cultural sightseeing for genuine wildlife and birdwatching experiences, ideal for travellers with a strong interest in Bhutan's natural rather than architectural heritage.
View Himalaya's Bhutan Wildlife and Nature Tour starts from USD 2,350 per person, including Bhutan's Sustainable Development Fee, hotel and eco-lodge accommodation, and a naturalist guide. Contact View Himalaya for current rates and seasonal availability, since black-necked crane viewing is strictly seasonal.
Black-necked cranes winter in Phobjikha Valley from November to February, making this the essential window for that portion of the tour. Royal Manas National Park is best visited from October to April, outside the monsoon season.
Truly one of the highlights of our travels in Asia. The guide's local knowledge added so much depth to the trip. A particular highlight for us was considerably less-visited nature destinations compared to Bhutan's standard cultural circuit. If you're considering this trip, just book it - you won't regret it.
A genuinely well organised and memorable trip. Having such an experienced guide made a huge difference, especially at altitude. A particular highlight for us was a genuine contrast between high-altitude valley and subtropical lowland ecosystems within one country. Thank you to the whole View Himalaya team for making this happen.
Could not have asked for a smoother experience. Our guide's English was excellent and he explained the local culture in real depth. A particular highlight for us was considerably less-visited nature destinations compared to Bhutan's standard cultural circuit. Highly recommend View Himalaya to anyone considering this trip.
