Birdwatching Around Godawari Kathmandu: A Birdwatcher’s Paradise Near Kathmandu
Birdwatching Around Godawari Kathmandu, Nestled in the southeastern edge of the Kathmandu Valley, Godawari is a paradise for bird lovers and nature seekers alike. With its lush forests, botanical gardens, and gentle foothills of the Phulchowki range, Godawari is not just a tranquil getaway from the city’s chaos—it’s a haven for hundreds of resident and migratory bird species. On a crisp, clear morning, my client Salomy and I set out on a half-day birdwatching tour, unaware that we were about to witness something truly extraordinary.
By the end of our morning Birdwatching Around Godawari Kathmandu excursion, we had recorded 77 different bird species—a number that surprised even seasoned birders. What made the experience even more special was the variety of ecosystems we moved through in just a few hours: subtropical broadleaf forest, cultivated land, riverine patches, and ornamental gardens. Each zone brought new bird calls, surprises, and the joy of discovery.
A Calm Start in Godawari Botanical Garden
We began Birdwatching Around Godawari Kathmandu our morning around 6:30 a.m., just as the rising sun started to bathe the forest canopy in golden light. The Godawari forest, with its well-maintained trails and mixed vegetation, was our first stop. Within minutes, the trees above us came alive with movement and sound. Salomy, an enthusiastic birder from Switzerland and she already spend 11 years Nepal, had barely unpacked her binoculars when we spotted our first highlight—the Blue-throated Barbet—with its vivid green body and turquoise-blue face, calling rhythmically from a high perch.
The Spotted Forktail soon made an appearance along a small stream, flicking its long tail and darting gracefully across the rocks. In the denser underbrush, we saw a Rufous-gorgeted Flycatcher, its orange throat patch flashing as it caught insects’ midair. Every turn of the trail revealed another surprise: Grey-hooded Warblers flitting among the bamboo thickets, a pair of Fulvous-breasted Woodpeckers drumming away, and a lone Crested serpent Eagle soaring silently above.
Highlights of the Birdwatching Around Godawari Kathmandu
As the sun rose higher, we moved toward the lower reaches of Phulchowki Hill, just behind the gardens. The air here was cooler, shaded by tall pines and rhododendrons. This change in habitat led to a change in birdlife too. A flock of Himalayan Black-lored Tits passed noisily overhead, followed by the melodious whistle of a Verditer Flycatcher. At one point, Salomy stopped in awe as a small mixed flock passed through, giving us brief but exciting views of Bar-winged Flycatcher-shrikes, Chestnut-crowned Warblers, and even a few Yuhinas.
Among our most memorable sightings was the Long-tailed Broadbill, its striking green, blue, and yellow plumage looking almost unreal against the forest backdrop. It paused long enough for us to take some excellent photos before disappearing into the canopy. The bird’s call—a series of soft whistles—echoed long after it left our sight.
Another special moment came when we spotted a pair of Great Barbets, the largest barbet species in the region, feeding on berries. Their loud “kee-yow” calls carried far across the forest. Shortly after, we encountered a Scarlet Minivet, its vibrant red and black coloring catching the morning light as it moved through the treetops with its mate.
Godawari’s Bird Diversity
The sheer diversity in such a short timeframe was stunning. From canopy dwellers to understory skulkers, Godawari’s birdlife put on a spectacular show. Some of the other notable species included:
- Grey Treepie
- White-throated Fantail
- Ashy Drongo
- Grey Wagtail
- Puff-throated Babbler
- Bronzed Drongo
- Oriental Turtle Dove
- Sikkim Treecreeper
- Hair-crested Drongo
- Long-tailed Broadbill
The variety of warblers was especially impressive. We counted at least seven species, including the Tickell’s Leaf Warbler, Lemon-rumped Warbler, and Blyth’s Leaf Warbler—a true challenge for any birder to differentiate in the field, but a rewarding puzzle for those who enjoy subtle ID features like eye rings, wing bars, and call notes.
The Joy of Sharing Discovery of Birdwatching Around Godawari Kathmandu
What made this tour particularly meaningful was the enthusiasm Salomy brought to every sighting. With a sharp eye and a patient ear, she was quick to notice unfamiliar calls and subtle movements in the foliage. As a guide, sharing this passion with someone experiencing Nepal’s birdlife for the first time is immensely rewarding. We took time not just to tick names off a list but to observe behaviors, listen to calls, and appreciate each bird’s unique place in the ecosystem.
Salomy noted how surprised she was to find such rich biodiversity so close to a major city like Kathmandu. Unlike more remote birding destinations, Godawari allows easy access to high-quality birding spots without requiring long travel or strenuous hiking.
Conservation and Awareness
Birdwatching in places like Godawari also highlights the importance of habitat conservation. The forests here are under increasing pressure from urban expansion, tourism, and deforestation. Yet, the presence of so many sensitive and habitat-specific species is a sign of the ecosystem’s resilience—at least for now. Continued efforts to protect these areas, along with responsible ecotourism, can help ensure that Godawari remains a sanctuary for birds and birders alike.
Final Tally and Reflections of Birdwatching Around Godawari Kathmandu
By the time we wrapped up our tour at around 12:30 a.m., we had recorded an impressive 77 different species. A few more hours might have easily pushed the number beyond 90, but even in half a day, the experience was rich and fulfilling. As we reviewed our checklist over a cup of local tea at a nearby café, we couldn’t help but feel gratitude—for the beauty of the forest, for the vibrant birdlife, and for the joy of sharing these moments with like-minded nature lovers.
Planning Your Own Birdwatching Around Godawari Kathmandu Tour
For those interested in birdwatching in Nepal, the Godawari area is an ideal starting point. It is easily accessible from Kathmandu (about 15 km southeast), has well-established trails, and offers a wide range of bird species throughout the year. The best months for birdwatching are from October to April, when migratory birds swell the local populations.
If you’re new to birding or traveling from abroad, consider hiring a local guide who knows the area well and can help you identify species by sound and sight. A good guide can make a world of difference, turning a quiet forest walk into an unforgettable wildlife adventure. So, If you interested to hire the local guide please, WhatsApp us: +9779841136123.
Conclusion
Our half-day birdwatching tour in Godawari was a reminder that even a few hours in nature can bring immense joy, connection, and discovery. With 77 species under our belt and memories to last a lifetime, Salomy and I ended our morning with wide smiles and full hearts. Godawari continues to be one of the crown jewels of birding in the Kathmandu Valley—a place where every chirp, whistle, and flutter holds the promise of something extraordinary.
