The special geography and topography of Jammu and Kashmir give rise to unique climatic conditions. While Jammu is largely situated along the Shivalik hills, the valley is surrounded by the Karakoram and Zanskar ranges in the north, and Pir Panjal in the west and south. The fertile lands or large swathes have subtropical and temperate forestsand several lakes in the valley. These waterbodies are home for residents, and work as staging areas for varied species of waterfowl in the winter. This is an ecologically vital part of the Central Asian Flyway.
About 674 species of birds have been observed in Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh, but the checklist keeps expanding and changing every few years. The latest estimates suggest that the count of the bird species of Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh could be as high as 715, which includes 31 globally threatened species and many exotic birds that draw in thousands of curious birders to North India birding trips every year. Jammu & Kashmir hosts birds like the Kashmir Flycatcher, Tawny owl, Kashmir nuthatch, Kashmir nutcracker, White cheeked nuthatch, Goldcrest and numerous others. Each region has its own specialties. Orange Bulfinch, Kashmir Nutcracker, Kashmir Nuthatch, Spectacled Finch, Pink-browed Rosefinch and Black-and-yellow Grosbeak are some of the local beauties to chase while on a Kashmir birding tour. Whereas on a Ladakh birding trip, the prize catches are: Black-necked Crane (state bird of Jammu and Kashmir), Long-billed Bush Warbler (rarely sighted and you would be lucky to clap your eyes on one), Bar-headed Goose, Brown-headed Gull, Tibetan Sandgrouse, Tibetan Snowfinch and Mongolian Finch.
One of the most unique journeys in the country, the Kashmir Birding Journeys will treat you to the best birding opportunities in the altitudes of Kashmir. Get a chance to sight fascinating and endemic species like Tawny owl, White-bellied redestart. This quick journey is best for those looking for a weekend getaway amid nature.
Accessibility by Train: Srinagar
Accessibility by Air: Srinagar
Payment Policy:
– 50% at the time of booking. Booking will be confirmed up on receipt of this 50% nonrefundable deposit
– 50% balance 60 days prior to the date of travel
Cancellation Policy:
– If cancelled prior to 30 days of travel date – 50% (50% refund)
– If cancelled less than 20 days of travel date – 100% (0% refund)
Day 1: 18/02/25:
Srinagar- Chadoora Budgam
Received at Airport. Transfer to homestay by non AC car.
Check-In followed by a briefing with your assigned naturalist – Unwind, Relax and Explore the property after a long day of travel. Orientation on Reserve and wildlife stories.
Afetrnoon birding around Chadoora Budgam.
Back to homestay. Dinner.
Expected Species: Tawny owl, Kashmir nuthatch, Kashmir nutcracker, White cheeked nuthatch, Goldcrest.
Day 2: 19/02/25:
Yousmarg Budgam
Early morning drive with our naturalist. Breakfast on field.
Full day birding at Yousmarg Budgam.
Back to homestay for Dinner.
Expected Species: Bar-tailed Treecreeper, Pine Bunting, Brambling, Yellowhammer, Water Pipit, Rosy Pipit, Water Rail.
Day 3: 20/02/25:
Dal Lake
Today is all about birds of Srinagar. Early morning drive with our naturalist.
Birding in and around the Botanical Garden.
Afternoon drive to Dal lake and surrounding areas to look for more birds.
Back to camp for Dinner.
Expected Species: Orange Bullfinch, Blyth’s Rosefinch, Pink-browed Rosefinch, European Goldfinch, Himalayan Woodpecker, Brown-fronted Woodpecker.
Day 4: 21/02/25:
Wular Lake/ Pampore
Early morning drive with our naturalist. Breakfast on field.
Full day birding at Wular lake or Pampore.
Back to homestay for Dinner.
Expected Species: Scaly-bellied Woodpecker, Chukar Partridge, Wallcreeper, Rufous-naped Tit, Coal Tit, Ibisbill, Brown Dipper, Fire-fronted Serin, Plain Mountain Finch.
Day 5: 22/02/25:
Kangan
Early morning drive with our naturalist. Breakfast on field.
Full day birding at Kangan.
Back to homestay for Dinner.
Expected Species: Eurasian Skylark, Eurasian Eagle Owl, Mallard and other ducks
And some chances of Long-eared Owl, Chaffinch, Black and Yellow Grosbeak.
Day 6: 23/02/25:
Chadoora Badgum- Srinagar
Morning birding at Chadoora Badgum.
Post breakfast transfer to Srinagar.
Drop to airport.
Journey ends.
