Koshi Tappu Birdwatching Tour
Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve, on the floodplain of the Sapta Koshi river in eastern Nepal, is one of the best birdwatching sites in South Asia. In winter its wetlands fill with migratory ducks, geese, waders and storks from Central Asia and Siberia, and it protects Nepal's last population of wild water buffalo (arna). This 4-day tour flies you to Biratnagar and gives you two full days of guided walks, boat trips and jeep drives with expert bird guides.
Graded easy, it suits birders, photographers and nature lovers. Flights, lodge or camp accommodation, all meals at the reserve, reserve fees, expert guides and activities are included.
Trip highlights
- Ramsar wetland famous for migratory waterbirds
- Wild water buffalo (arna)
- Boat trips on the Koshi river
- Expert bird guides
- Possible Gangetic dolphins
Short itinerary
View detailed itineraryKoshi Tappu Birdwatching Tour overview
Quick answer: this tour takes 4 days from Kathmandu, with two full days at Koshi Tappu, and costs from US$690 per person. The best time is November–March, when migratory birds arrive; more than 500 species have been recorded in the area.
Koshi Tappu was established as a wildlife reserve in 1976 to protect the wild water buffalo and is listed as a Ramsar wetland of international importance. Its mix of river channels, marshes, grassland and riverine forest attracts an extraordinary range of birds, from ducks and cormorants to rare species such as the swamp francolin and Bengal florican. Gangetic dolphins are also occasionally seen in the Koshi river.
At a glance
| Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Duration | 4 days |
| Location | Sunsari, Saptari and Udayapur districts, eastern Nepal |
| Access | Flight Kathmandu – Biratnagar, then about 1.5–2 hours by road |
| Highlights | Migratory waterbirds, wild water buffalo, river trips |
| Best time | November–March |
| Cost | From US$690 per person |
Day-by-day itinerary
What’s included
Included
- Flights Kathmandu – Biratnagar – Kathmandu
- Airport transfers in Kathmandu and private vehicle in the east
- Wildlife camp or lodge accommodation (3 nights)
- All meals at Koshi Tappu
- Reserve entry fees
- Expert bird guide and naturalist
- Boat trips and jeep drives as listed
- All government and local taxes
Not included
- Hotels in Kathmandu
- Travel insurance
- Drinks and personal expenses
- Camera fees where charged
- Tips for guides and boatmen
Useful info
Best time
November to March brings winter migrants and the largest numbers of waterbirds. Mornings are cool and foggy in December and January.
What to bring
Binoculars, a camera with a long lens, a field guide, neutral-coloured clothing and insect repellent.
Health
Use insect repellent and ask a travel clinic about malaria prevention for the lowlands.
Packing list
- Binoculars and spotting scope (if you have one)
- Camera with long lens
- Neutral-coloured clothing
- Warm layer for winter mornings
- Insect repellent and sunscreen
- Hat and sunglasses
Add-ons & trip options
Choose add-ons and quantities on the booking form.
More options, quoted on request:
- Ilam tea gardens extension.
- Chitwan birding combination.
- Extra day at the reserve.
Frequently asked questions
In eastern Nepal, on the floodplain of the Sapta Koshi river.
November–March, when migratory birds arrive.
More than 500 species have been recorded in the area.
The wild water buffalo; Koshi Tappu protects Nepal's last wild population.
Fly to Biratnagar, then drive about 1.5–2 hours.
From US$690 per person.
Yes, Koshi Tappu is a Ramsar wetland of international importance.
Gangetic dolphins are occasionally seen in the Koshi river.