Wildlife and birds · Gorkhey
Early bird walk along the Gorkhey stream
Walk the stream and forest edge at Gorkhey at dawn for river birds that do not live up on the ridge: forktails, redstarts, dippers and wagtails, along with flycatchers and sunbirds in the trees.
Mountain streams have their own bird community. At Gorkhey look on boulders in the water for white-capped redstarts with their red tails and white caps, plumbeous redstarts flicking their tails, forktails walking on wet rock and, with luck, a brown dipper diving underwater.
On the forest edge, flycatchers, sunbirds and warblers are active in the early morning, and laughingthrushes call in the undergrowth. Walk slowly along the path by the stream and stop often. Your guide may know other trails into the forest.
Bring binoculars, and keep the walk to an hour or two so you can still reach Samanden or Rammam comfortably. If you are taking a rest day here, explore further up the valley.
Cost: Included in your guide fee
Questions people ask
Good to know
What birds live along Himalayan streams like Gorkhey's?
White-capped and plumbeous redstarts, forktails, brown dippers and grey wagtails are typical. They live on rocks and in the water, so look low. The forest edge adds flycatchers, sunbirds and laughingthrushes.
When is the best birding at Gorkhey?
Early morning, from first light to about 8 am, in spring (March to May) and autumn (October to November). Spring brings more song and breeding activity.
Do I need a guide for a bird walk at Gorkhey?
You are inside the protected area with your trek guide anyway; walk with him. Ask him to point out river birds; many local guides know the common species.
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