Sattal, Ranikhet & Chopta: The Complete Himalayan Birding Journey
From forest whispers to alpine silence—experience the Himalayas, frame by frame
Overview
Some journeys stay with you longer—not because of how much you saw, but because of how deeply you experienced it.
This EcoLenz journey brings together the intimate birding forests of Sattal, the open Himalayan charm of Ranikhet, and the raw, high-altitude beauty of Chopta.
This 5 nights / 6 days immersive experience is designed for those who want to go beyond surface-level travel and truly connect—with birds, landscapes, and the rhythm of the mountains.
Upcoming Journeys
Sattal, Ranikhet and Chopta Birding Expedition
A Journey into the Wild Himalayas
Step into a world where nature slows you down and every moment invites deeper connections.
Itinerary
Day 2 - Hides & Forest Trails
Morning at Hide:
- Close-range bird photography
Afternoon at Chaffi:
- Forest walk and natural habitat shooting
Day 3 — Ranikhet Exploration
- Drive to Ranikhet.
- Birding in open habitats
- Scenic Himalayan backdrops
- A mix of landscape and wildlife frames
Drive to Chopta
Day 4 — Journey to Tungnath
Drive deeper into the Himalayas.
Birding session for Monal
Evening:
- Short walk and village exploration
Day 5 — Return to Sattal
After morning session at Mandal return to Sattal.
Check in to your stay
Day 6 — Return with Perspective
Morning Sattal trail session.
Drive back toward Kathgodam for departure.
Sattal Tour Cost
Inclusions
- Accommodation (twin-sharing)
- All meals during the journey
- Guided birding sessions and hide access
- Transfers from/to Kathgodam
- Inter-location travel
- EcoLenz mentoring and photography guidance
Exclusions
- Personal expenses
- Optional add-ons
Species Information
Birds: 650+ species
Himalayan Monal
Koklass Pheasant
Cheer Pheasant
Great Barbet
Blue-throated Barbet
Red-billed Leiothrix
Rufous Sibia
Black-headed Jay
Verditer Flycatcher
Ultramarine Flycatcher
Slaty-headed Parakeet
White-throated Laughingthrush
Grey-winged Blackbird
Blue Whistling Thrush
Chestnut-headed Tesia
Green-backed Tit
Black Bulbul
Himalayan Griffon
Crested Kingfisher
Rufous-bellied Woodpecker
Mammals: 35+ species
Leopard
Himalayan Goral
Barking Deer
Sambar Deer
Yellow-throated Marten
Himalayan Langur
Rhesus Macaque
Wild Boar
Indian Crested Porcupine
Himalayan Palm Civet
Small Indian Civet
Himalayan Black Bear (rare)
Indian Hare
Flying Fox
Indian Grey Mongoose
10 Other Wildlife Species
Himalayan Pit Viper
Common Krait
Indian Cobra
Oriental Rat Snake
Himalayan Agama
Himalayan Toad
Skittering Frog
Himalayan Newt
Common Indian Monitor
Golden Mahseer (River Fish)
Frequently asked questions
2. What birds and wildlife can I expect to photograph on this trip?
Sattal's hides are known for close-range shots of species like the Verditer Flycatcher and Rufous Sibia, while Chopta and Tungnath offer a chance at the Himalayan Monal and Koklass Pheasant against high-altitude backdrops. The region also supports mammals such as Leopard, Himalayan Goral, and Yellow-throated Marten, though sightings of rarer species aren't guaranteed.
3. Do I need prior bird photography experience to join?
No - the trip is designed for bird photographers of all levels, from beginners wanting guided hide sessions to experienced photographers looking for wilder, more exploratory birding in open and high-altitude terrain.
4. What is included in the cost, and what should I bring?
Twin-sharing accommodation, all meals, guided birding sessions with hide access, transfers to/from Kathgodam, inter-location travel, and EcoLenz mentoring are included. You'll need to bring your own photography equipment, and personal expenses or optional add-ons are extra.
5. Is this trip currently available to book?
This particular listing is currently showing as out of stock. If you're interested, it's worth reaching out via WhatsApp or the enquiry form to check on the next confirmed batch, since travel dates for this circuit typically run through the cooler months (October to March).
Terms & Guidelines
- Limited seats for personalized attention
- Confirmation only after advance payment
- Respect for wildlife and ethical photography mandatory
- Participants must carry required photography equipment
- Refund policy shared upon registration
Photography Opportunity
This journey builds a diverse and powerful portfolio:
- Close-up bird portraits (Sattal hides)
- Natural habitat and behaviour shots
- Forest storytelling frames
- Himalayan landscapes with wildlife elements
- High-altitude birding and scenic compositions
Perfect for photographers looking for variety + depth.
Stay & Comfort
- Comfortable forest stays in Sattal
- Cozy mountain lodges in Chopta
- Fresh, local meals throughout
A seamless blend of comfort and immersion.
Who This Is For
- Bird photographers (all levels)
- Wildlife enthusiasts seeking Himalayan diversity
- Photographers wanting both guided setups and wild exploration
- Travellers looking for a deeper, richer mountain experience
Why This Journey
Because the Himalayas aren’t meant to be rushed.
It’s about:
- Starting in quiet forests
- Moving through open hills
- Ending in alpine silence
- And carrying every moment back with you
Not all journeys change your location.
Some change how you see.
If you’re ready to experience the Himalayas—fully and deeply—
Join EcoLenz. Find Yourself in Nature.