The ridge between Kande, Australian Camp and Pothana carries mixed forest of oak, chestnut, alder and rhododendron between about 1,800 and 2,100 m, a rich band for Himalayan birds. Set out at first light, when birds are most active, and walk slowly along the main trail east towards Pothana and the side paths that run through the trees. The first two hours after sunrise are the most productive, before the mixed flocks disperse and trekkers start to pass.
Common sightings include white-throated and rufous-chinned laughingthrushes, great barbets, scarlet minivets, Himalayan bulbuls, green-tailed sunbirds feeding on rhododendron flowers and several woodpeckers. Kalij pheasants sometimes cross the trail, and raptors such as Himalayan griffons, black eagles and steppe eagles in winter soar over the ridge. A good local guide knows the calls and can find mixed flocks in the canopy. Spring also brings cuckoos calling from the ridge, and in winter flocks of finches feed in the fields near Pothana.
Spring, from March to May, is the best season, with breeding plumage, song and flowering rhododendrons. October to December is also good, with clear views and winter visitors. Bring binoculars and a field guide or app, wear muted colours and keep voices low. This walk can be fitted into the morning of the Australian Camp to Dhampus trek. Our guide can bring a spotting scope on request, and lodges at Australian Camp serve early tea for birders setting out at dawn.
Good for
- Photographers
- Solo
- Seniors
- Couples
Questions travellers ask
What birds can I see near Australian Camp?
Expect laughingthrushes, great barbets, scarlet minivets, sunbirds, bulbuls, tits, woodpeckers and possibly kalij pheasant, with raptors such as Himalayan griffons and black eagles overhead. Spring brings breeding songbirds and winter brings migrant raptors. A local birding guide will greatly increase the number of species you see.
When is the best time for birdwatching near Pokhara?
March to May is best in the foothill forests, when birds are breeding and singing and rhododendrons flower. October to February is good for raptors and wetland birds around Phewa, Begnas and Rupa lakes. Early mornings are always more productive than afternoons.
Do I need special equipment for birding at Australian Camp?
Binoculars of 8x or 10x magnification are the main need, plus a field guide to the birds of Nepal or a birding app. Wear muted clothing and comfortable walking shoes. A camera with a 300 mm or longer lens helps for photography, as many birds stay high in the canopy.