# Butterfly Watching in Nepal

## Butterfly watching in Nepal

Nepal is home to around **650 species of butterflies**, from tiny blues to large swallowtails and birdwings. Good places to look include the forests of **Godawari** and **[Phulchowki](/places/phulchowki)** on the edge of the Kathmandu Valley, **Shivapuri National Park**, the jungles of **Chitwan**, and the lake shores around **Pokhara**.

The best seasons are **March–May** and **September–November**, on warm, sunny mornings. Our naturalist guides help you find and identify species.

## Trips
- [Godawari and Phulchowki Butterfly Tour](https://himalayanhiking.com/godawari-phulchowki-butterfly-tour.md): 1 days, Easy, max About 1,500–2,000 m / 4,920–6,560 ft, from US$60. The Godawari and Phulchowki butterfly tour explores some of the richest forests near Kathmandu. Start at the National Botanical Garden in Godawari, then walk th...

## Butterfly watching in Nepal: the complete guide

Nepal is home to around 650 species of butterflies, thanks to its huge range of habitats, from lowland jungle to high mountain meadows. Many can be seen within an hour of Kathmandu.

## Where to go

- **Godawari and [Phulchowki](/places/phulchowki):** forests on the southern rim of the Kathmandu Valley, among the richest butterfly habitats near the capital.
- **Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park:** forest trails north of the city.
- **Chitwan:** lowland forests and riverbanks.
- **Pokhara's lakes:** lake shores and forests around Phewa, Begnas and Rupa.

See our [Godawari and Phulchowki butterfly tour](/godawari-phulchowki-butterfly-tour).

## Best time

March–May and September–November, on warm, sunny mornings. Some species are most numerous just after the monsoon.

## What to bring

- Binoculars with close focus
- A camera with a macro or zoom lens
- A field guide
- Sun hat and water

## Responsible watching

Watch and photograph only; do not catch butterflies or disturb plants. Many of the same places are excellent for [bird watching](/category/birdwatching-and-wildlife-tours).

## Frequently asked questions
### How many butterfly species does Nepal have?
Around **650**.

### Where is the best place to see butterflies?
Godawari and Phulchowki, Shivapuri and Chitwan.

### When is the best time?
**March–May** and **September–November**.

### Can I combine it with birdwatching?
Yes, the same places are good for both.


Web page: https://himalayanhiking.com/category/butterfly-watching-in-nepal