The rooftop of the world

Spring birding in the NW Planes of India, Kashmir Valley, and the Tibetan Plateau of Ladakh 

May 20 - June 8, 2027

What sets the tour apart ...

This trip visits some areas that are old favorites where tour companies visit every time, and some new birding areas in the Himalayas where few people visit. Apart from the staggering birds and wildlife encounters, we will experience some amazing scenery, eat the most delicious food, and be immersed in an ancient culture. And who doesn't want to see a tiger, a Wallcreeper, a Sarus Crane … and be amongst ancient monasteries and medieval villages on old trading routes . Times have changed, and few tourists get sick in India now. This really is a great introduction to Asian birding and the diverse Indian Subcontinent. We will see upwards of 350 bird species and for the first-time visitor to Asia, almost all will be new.

But what really sets this trip apart is the inclusive and fun atmosphere and the guiding partnership between Holly and Steve.  We take you to three unique areas of India with totally different scenery, foods, cultures, religions ...and of course birds and other wildlife. 

Cost

We pass this 20-day tour along as close to cost as possible with two US guides, local guides and villagers used as spotters.

$6,500 USD per person based on double occupancy and a  charge of of $1000 for single supplement if rooming alone.  This is all inclusive and includes all local tips, two internal flights and obviously all food and transportation.  While we do tip the guides, we encourage participants to add their support too as they work so hard every day.

Six people are required to make this trip go; eight is ideal.

What to expect ...

Relaxed birding is appropriate for all levels of birding experience from the newbies to experienced.  While experienced birders will enjoy the endemic and unique birds found in these regions, accompaning non birders that appreciate wildlife and travel will fit right in too.  Whst is super nice is thst the birding is relatively eady with mostly open habitats.  Expect short hikes on easy trails …  Typically breakfast about 6am, on the road by 06.45, but occasionally earlier to beat the heat ... and bird until lunch.  Lunch is in restaurants for an hour or so and then bird in the afternoon ... Depends on location but most days we will be back by 6pm.  Because there are two guides we can easily accommodate a slower pace and those who wish to spend more time taking photos.  Also, expect great food.  You may need to go on a diet before the trip.

There is a short internal flight from Delhi to Srinagar and another from Leh back to Delhi that we will take and you will be accompanied at all times to help navigate the airport systems.  

In the Plains of NW India you come face to face with the "real India".  People will be very friendly and often want photos taken with you.  Expect mountain roads and high passes with twists andvturns in Ladakh.  We will be covering a lot of distance here but the scenery is majestic and we break up the travel with birding and cultural stops. The 3 safaris in Ranthambore are in open topped vehicles.

The Guides ...

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