About Godawori bird watching tour
Godawari Bird Watching Tour
Nestled at the southeastern edge of the Kathmandu Valley lies Godawari, a lush green haven that offers a peaceful escape from the bustling city streets. Known for its botanical gardens, tranquil forest trails, and rich biodiversity, Godawari has become one of Nepal’s most popular bird-watching destinations, especially for nature lovers and bird enthusiasts looking for a short yet rewarding escape near Kathmandu.
For many locals, Godawari is synonymous with fresh air and greenery. But for bird watchers, it’s something more, a gateway to spotting hundreds of bird species without the need for long treks or remote journeys. Whether you're an experienced birder or just someone curious about the vibrant birdlife of Nepal, the Godawari Bird Watching Tour provides the perfect introduction to Nepal's avian diversity.
Why Godawari for Bird Watching?
Nepal is home to over 890 species of birds, nearly 9% of the world’s total bird species, and many of them can be seen within a short radius of Kathmandu. Godawari, located just 16 kilometres southeast of the city centre, offers easy access to both lowland forests and sub-tropical hills, creating an ideal habitat for a wide range of birdlife.
The Godawari area sits at the foothills of Phulchowki (2,762 meters), the highest hill surrounding Kathmandu Valley, which is itself considered a biodiversity hotspot. While Phulchowki is famous among serious birders for its higher-altitude sightings, Godawari provides the perfect lowland counterpart, where you can explore botanical gardens, riverbanks, farmlands, and forested slopes — all teeming with birds.
Bird Species You Can Expect to See
One of the best parts of the Godawari Bird Watching Tour is the sheer variety of species you can encounter. The area records sightings of over 280 bird species throughout the year. Some of the commonly spotted birds include:
- Spotted Forktail
- Slaty-headed Parakeet
- Black-lored Tit
- Crimson Sunbird
- Rufous-gorgeted Flycatcher
- Grey-hooded Warbler
- Verdict Flycatchers
- Himalayan Bulbul
- Blue-throated Barbet
- Great Barbet
- Coppersmith Barbet
- Plumbeous Water Redstart
- White-capped Water Redstart
During migration seasons, you may also spot winter visitors like the Speckled Piculet, Chestnut-headed Tesia, or even rarer high-altitude species descending to the lower, warmer forests.
For bird photography, Godawari offers excellent conditions — from open gardens with good light to shaded forest trails that challenge your spotting skills but reward you with glimpses of shy, colorful species flitting through the undergrowth.
What to Expect on a Typical Godawari Bird Watching Tour
A standard Godawari bird watching tour usually starts early in the morning, as the hours just after sunrise tend to be the most active time for bird movements and feeding
Depending on your interest and physical condition, the tour can be extended to nearby forest trails toward Phulchowki’s lower slopes, where more forest-dwelling species can be observed.
An experienced local bird guide is highly recommended, not only for identification assistance but also for insights into bird calls, behaviours, and the ecological significance of the area.
Binoculars, field guides (such as "Birds of Nepal" by Richard Grimmett), and a good camera with zoom lenses are useful, though even casual visitors can enjoy the natural surroundings without specialised equipment.
About Godawari Botanical Garden
The Godawari area is famous for its National Botanical Garden, which covers around 82 hectares of beautifully maintained grounds. The garden features a diverse collection of native and exotic plants, trees, and flowers, providing additional habitats for birds.
Water features like ponds and small streams inside the garden attract species such as Kingfishers, Water Redstarts, and various types of Warblers. For nature lovers, the combination of colorful flowers, butterflies, and birds makes it a peaceful spot to relax and observe quietly.
Best Time for Bird Watching in Godawari
While Godawari is accessible year-round, the autumn and winter months (October to March) are considered the best times for bird watching. The weather is clear and mild, and migratory birds add to the diversity of sightings.
Spring (March to May) is also excellent, with blooming flowers and increased bird activity, especially for nesting species. Monsoon season (June to September) sees lush greenery, but trails can be slippery, and some birds are harder to spot due to dense foliage.
Who Should Join the Godawari Bird Watching Tour?
This tour is ideal for:
- Bird watching enthusiasts of all levels
- Wildlife photographers
- Botanists and nature lovers
- Families or groups looking for a short outdoor trip
- Visitors with limited time in Kathmandu who still want to experience Nepal's natural beauty
You don’t need to be a hardcore birder to enjoy the experience. Even casual visitors are often surprised at how many birds they notice when walking through Godawari's peaceful trails.
Combining Godawari with Other Experiences
For those who wish to extend the trip, Godawari can be combined with:
- Phulchowki Bird Watching Hike – A full-day trek to higher elevations for even greater bird diversity
- Cultural Tour of Patan City – Explore ancient temples and art, just 30 minutes from Godawari
- Botanical Photography Tour – Focused on flowers, trees, and landscapes of the garden
For multi-day nature enthusiasts, combining Godawari with bird watching in places like Shivapuri National Park, Nagarjun Forest Reserve, or Taudaha Lake can create a rich, bird-focused itinerary within the Kathmandu Valley.
Responsible Bird Watching
While exploring Godawari, it’s important to practice responsible tourism:
- Keep noise to a minimum to avoid disturbing wildlife
- Stay on designated trails to protect fragile habitats
- Avoid littering, and carry out all waste
- Use binoculars and cameras respectfully; do not attempt to touch or feed birds
- Support local conservation efforts by hiring local guides and paying park entrance fees
Final Thoughts
Godawari offers one of the easiest yet rewarding bird watching experiences in Nepal. Its close proximity to Kathmandu, rich biodiversity, and peaceful natural environment make it a must-visit for bird enthusiasts and anyone looking to experience Nepal's birdlife without venturing far from the capital.
In just a few hours, you can leave the city's chaos behind, breathe in the fresh forest air, and witness the vibrant world of birds that call Godawari home.
If you're visiting Kathmandu and want a short, refreshing nature escape, the Godawari Bird Watching Tour in Nepal is the perfect way to connect with Nepal’s remarkable wildlife — no strenuous trek required, just a good pair of eyes and a love for the outdoors.