Bird Species:
Rufous-necked Hornbill, Red-headed Trogon, Hodgson’s Frogmouth (Rare), Sultan Tit, Parrotbills (Four Varieties), Minlas, Golden-naped Finch, Red Crossbill, Maroon-backed Accentor, Barwings and many more
North Bengal: An Eastern Himalayan Biodiversity Hotspot
North Bengal, divided into the Darjeeling and Kalimpong districts, is part of the Eastern Himalayas. This region is one of the most biodiverse in the world and the richest in India. It supports an array of birds, mammals, and reptiles.
The hilly terrain offers breathtaking views of Kanchenjunga and other peaks while blending Buddhist and Hindu cultures. It is also home to stunning forests, national parks, and the world-renowned Darjeeling tea gardens.
Detailed Descriptions of Birding Locations
Gajoldoba Barrage
- A dam on the Teesta River with winter backwaters attracting migratory birds.
- Notable Birds: Falcated Duck, Red-crested Pochard, Pied Harrier, Greater Scaur, Northern Lapwing
Latpanchar and Shivkhola
- Low to mid-altitude birding havens.
- Bird Species: Rufous-necked Hornbill, Red-headed Trogon, Black Baza, Jerdon’s Baza (Summers), Sultan Tit, Gray-chinned Minivet, Necklaced Laughingthrushes, Barred Cuckoo Dove, Asian Fairy Bluebirds, Long-tailed Broadbill, Green Magpie, Green and Wood Pigeons
Senchal Wildlife Sanctuary
- High-altitude reserve in the Darjeeling hills with thick bamboo forests.
- Bird Species: Parrotbills (Great, Fulvous, Brown, Black-throated), Dark-rumped Rosefinch, Grosbeaks, Red Crossbill, Minlas, Broad-billed Warbler, Fulvettas, Blue-winged, Spotted, and Gray-sided Laughingthrushes, Hoary-throated Barwing, White-throated Redstart
Neora Valley National Park
- Located at the trijunction of Sikkim, Bengal, and Bhutan, known for its biodiversity.
- Bird Species: Maroon-backed Accentor, Golden-naped Finch, Crimson-browed Finch, Red-headed Bullfinch, Striated Bulbul, Golden-throated Barbet, Himalayan Cutia, Satyr Tragopan, Black-faced Laughingthrushes, Blue-fronted Robin, White-naped Yuhina, Scimitar Babblers, Wren Babblers
Singalila National Park
- High-altitude park (2200–3600m ASL), renowned for Red Panda sightings.
- Bird Species: Northern Goshawk (Rare), White-collared Blackbird, Fire-tailed Myzornis, Himalayan Buzzard, Red Crossbill
Tea Gardens of Darjeeling
The world-famous Darjeeling tea gardens are not just a scenic delight but also a vital part of the region’s economy. These gardens produce some of the best teas in the world.
How to Experience North Bengal
- Witness the unique biodiversity and cultural richness.
- Marvel at the awe-inspiring Kanchenjunga views.
- Explore world-class birding spots and wildlife sanctuaries.
Plan your next trip to North Bengal and immerse yourself in its unparalleled beauty and wildlife!
