Munsiyari Winter Bird Photography Tour

Overview

Experience the magic of Himalayan bird photography with DCP Expeditions on an exclusive Winter Bird Photography Expedition to Munsiyari, Uttarakhand. Set against the magnificent snow-covered Panchachuli peaks, this expedition explores the pristine forests, mountain slopes and valleys of Kumaon in search of some of India’s most spectacular Himalayan birds.

Winter brings unique photographic opportunities as certain high-altitude species move towards relatively lower elevations. From the colourful Himalayan Monal and elusive Koklass Pheasant to beautiful rosefinches, bush robins, woodpeckers and soaring Himalayan vultures, the region offers remarkable bird diversity amidst breathtaking mountain landscapes.

With guided photography sessions, a small group and personalised assistance from an experienced DCP photography mentor, this expedition promises an enriching experience combining Himalayan wilderness, bird photography and creative learning.

DCP Experts

DCP Safety

Entry fees

Images Review

Meals

Post Event

Stay

About The Tour

Munsiyari, nestled in the eastern Kumaon Himalayas, is among Uttarakhand’s most fascinating destinations for winter bird photography. Surrounded by snow-covered peaks, oak and rhododendron forests, alpine slopes and mountain valleys, the region supports an extraordinary diversity of Himalayan birdlife.

Our expedition explores Chaukori, Munsiyari and Abbott Mount, covering different elevations and habitats to maximise photographic opportunities. Key locations include Kalamuni Top, Thamri Kund, Madkot Road, Harkot Road and the surrounding forest trails.

The Himalayan Monal, Koklass Pheasant, colourful rosefinches, Golden Bush Robin, Himalayan woodpeckers, redstarts and various raptors are among the exciting photographic possibilities. The elusive Cheer Pheasant and Satyr Tragopan are additional species of interest, although encounters with these rare birds are unpredictable.

Beyond documenting species, participants will explore creative bird photography, environmental compositions, natural light, bird behaviour and photographic storytelling. The dramatic winter landscapes provide wonderful opportunities to create images that capture both the birds and the beauty of their Himalayan habitats.

Target Birds

Himalayan Monal, Koklass Pheasant, Cheer Pheasant, Satyr Tragopan, Dark-breasted Rosefinch, Pink-browed Rosefinch, Golden Bush Robin, Himalayan Woodpecker, Rufous-bellied Woodpecker, Brown-fronted Woodpecker, Wallcreeper, Whiskered Yuhina, White-tailed Nuthatch, Himalayan Buzzard, Eurasian Sparrowhawk, White-collared Blackbird, Common Wood Pigeon, Himalayan Vulture, Bearded Vulture, Blue-capped Redstart, Blue-fronted Redstart, Himalayan Accentor.

Quick Information

Route:

Chaukori, Munsiyari and Abbott Mount, Uttarakhand

Start Point:

Kathgodam Railway Station / Pantnagar Airport

Duration:

6 nights 7 days

End Point:

Kathgodam Railway Station / Pantnagar Airport

Inclusions

Six nights’ accommodation on a twin-sharing basis.
All meals as specified in the itinerary.
Pickup and drop-off from Kathgodam / Pantnagar.
All internal transportation and transfers.
Guided bird photography sessions across selected Himalayan habitats.
Services of an experienced local bird guide.
Photography guidance from one DCP mentor throughout the expedition.
Image review and post-processing discussions.
Applicable entry fees, guide charges and taxes.

Experts

Shivayogi Kanthi

Panel Expert - DCP Pune

Shivayogi is a passionate nature photographer and former IT professional whose journey reflects a profound love for both technology and the natural world. With a background in IT Consulting, Project & Program Management. Shivayogi spent over 22 years honing technical skills along with global exposure that laid the groundwork for a unique career transition.While working in the tech industry, he often found solace in the great outdoors, exploring local parks and trails with a camera in hand. This passion ignited a desire to capture the beauty of nature and share it with others, leading him to pursue photography more seriously.In 2017, Shivayogi boldly decided to embrace the life of a nature photographer while wearing a corporate hat. He specializes in both wildlife (especially bird photography) and landscapes using a keen eye for detail and composition to create stunning images that tell stories of the natural environment.His work has been featured in SmartPhotography, SaveUs, and many online platforms including Canon, and he is committed to promoting conservation efforts through his photography. [He believes that connecting people with nature through powerful imagery can inspire a greater appreciation for the environment.When not behind the lens, Shivayogi enjoys, teaching photography workshops, volunteering for conservation projects, and watching documentaries. He is based in Pune, where he continues to explore and document the beauty of the world around him.

Pantnagar Airport is the nearest convenient airport for this expedition, located approximately 25 km from Kathgodam. It has flight connections to Delhi, subject to airline schedules. Participants should plan to arrive at Pantnagar before 8:00 AM on Day 1. Pickup and onward transportation will be arranged as part of the expedition.

**We recommend Flexi flight option for greater flexibility in unforeseen cancellations.

Kathgodam Railway Station is the most convenient railhead for reaching the Kumaon Himalayas. It is connected to Delhi and other major destinations through regular train services, including the Ranikhet Express and Shatabdi Express. Participants should arrive at Kathgodam before 8:00 AM on Day 1, where the DCP team will arrange pickup.

Not recommended

Getting Ready

Things to carry:

Participants should be prepared for cold Himalayan winter conditions, early-morning photography sessions and moderate walking through forest trails and mountainous terrain. We recommend carrying the following essentials for a comfortable and productive bird photography experience.

Photography Equipment

DSLR or mirrorless camera with reliable autofocus capabilities.
Telephoto zoom lens, preferably 200–600mm, 100–500mm or equivalent.
Medium telephoto lens, such as 70–200mm, for environmental bird photography.
Wide-angle lens for Himalayan landscapes and creative compositions (optional).
Sturdy tripod or monopod for additional stability.
Extra camera batteries, as battery performance may decline in freezing temperatures.
Battery chargers, sufficient memory cards and backup storage devices.
Laptop for image transfers, reviews and post-processing (optional).
Camera rain cover and protective equipment against snow, moisture and dust.
Lens cleaning kit, microfiber cloth and blower.

Winter Clothing and Personal Essentials

Heavy winter jacket or insulated snow jacket suitable for sub-zero temperatures.
Thermal innerwear and warm layered clothing.
Waterproof and windproof outerwear.
Warm gloves, preferably photography-friendly gloves.
Woollen cap, neck warmer and thermal socks.
Waterproof trekking shoes with good grip for snowy and slippery trails.
Sunglasses and sunscreen for protection against strong mountain sunlight.
Headlamp or torch with spare batteries.
Personal medication, basic first-aid kit and toiletries.
Reusable water bottle and personal snacks.
Small backpack for carrying photography equipment and daily essentials.

Important Preparations

Be prepared for early-morning departures and extended outdoor photography sessions.
Ensure reasonable physical fitness for walking on uneven mountain trails.
Carry sufficient protection for camera equipment against cold, snow and moisture.
Keep spare camera batteries warm and protected during field sessions.
Follow responsible wildlife photography practices and avoid disturbing birds or their natural habitats.
Carry a valid government-issued photo identity card.
Follow the DCP photography mentor’s instructions regarding field safety and photography locations.

Itinerary

Day 1: Kathgodam / Pantnagar to Chaukori

Participants will assemble at Kathgodam Railway Station or Pantnagar Airport before 8:00 AM. After introductions, we begin our scenic journey towards Chaukori, travelling through the beautiful landscapes of Kumaon. Depending on available time and bird activity, we may stop for photography along the way.

We expect to reach Chaukori by late afternoon. After checking into the hotel, the DCP mentor will conduct an introductory briefing covering the expedition plan, expected bird species and photography techniques. Dinner and overnight stay at Chaukori.

Day 2: Chaukori Bird Photography and Transfer to Munsiyari

The day begins with an early-morning bird photography session around Chaukori, exploring nearby forest habitats for Himalayan birds. Participants will receive practical guidance on camera settings, exposure and composition.

After breakfast, we check out and begin our journey towards Munsiyari. The scenic drive offers beautiful views of mountain valleys, forests and the magnificent Panchachuli peaks. Photography stops and lunch will be arranged en route. We expect to reach Munsiyari by evening. Dinner and overnight stay at Munsiyari.

Day 3: Kalamuni Top and Himalayan Pheasant Photography

We begin early and explore the high-altitude forests and mountain slopes around Kalamuni Top, one of the region’s promising birding locations. Our primary photographic targets include Himalayan Monal, Koklass Pheasant and other Himalayan forest birds.

The mentor will guide participants on photographing birds in snowy environments, managing exposure and creating compelling environmental compositions. Packed breakfast and lunch will be enjoyed in the field. Return to Munsiyari by evening for dinner and overnight stay.

Day 4: Thamri Kund and Himalayan Forest Birds

Today’s photography sessions focus on the forests around Thamri Kund and other suitable habitats near Munsiyari. These environments offer opportunities to photograph woodpeckers, yuhinas, nuthatches, rosefinches and other Himalayan birds.

The emphasis will be on photographing birds in natural forest environments, handling difficult lighting conditions and improving autofocus accuracy. The evening will include an image review and post-processing discussion with the mentor. Dinner and overnight stay at Munsiyari.

Day 5: Madkot Road, Harkot Road and Munsiyari Valleys

Our final full day in Munsiyari will be dedicated to exploring additional birding locations along Madkot Road, Harkot Road and surrounding valleys. Depending on seasonal bird activity, we will search for rosefinches, redstarts, accentors, woodpeckers and Himalayan raptors.

Participants will explore creative compositions, bird behaviour photography, flight photography and environmental storytelling. Locations will be selected based on recent sightings and prevailing weather conditions. Return to the hotel by evening for an image review, dinner and overnight stay.

Day 6: Munsiyari to Abbott Mount

After breakfast, we check out and begin our scenic journey towards Abbott Mount, travelling through picturesque Himalayan landscapes. Photography stops will be arranged wherever suitable opportunities arise.

Abbott Mount, near Lohaghat, is known for its peaceful forest surroundings and Himalayan birdlife. Upon arrival, we check into the KMVN Log Hut. Depending on available daylight, we may explore the nearby forest habitats. Dinner and overnight stay at Abbott Mount.

Day 7: Abbott Mount Bird Photography and Return Journey

The final morning begins with a guided bird photography session around Abbott Mount, exploring nearby woodland habitats for resident Himalayan species.

After breakfast, we check out and begin our return journey towards Kathgodam / Pantnagar, with lunch en route. We expect to reach our destination by approximately 6:00 PM, concluding a memorable Himalayan winter bird photography expedition.

Field Learnings

Participants will receive practical guidance from the DCP photography mentor throughout the expedition, focusing on:

Camera settings and exposure control for Himalayan bird photography.
Autofocus techniques and tracking moving birds.
Photographing birds in snow and challenging winter light.
Low-light photography in dense Himalayan forests.
Understanding bird behaviour and ethical fieldcraft.
Creative compositions, environmental portraits and visual storytelling.
Bird-in-flight photography and shutter-speed management.
Image review, selection and basic post-processing techniques.

The expedition encourages participants to move beyond conventional bird portraits and explore creative ways of documenting Himalayan birdlife, its behaviour and its natural environment.

Package Cost

Indian nationals:
Twin sharing: INR 67000 per person inclusive of all taxes
Single occupancy: INR 82000 per person inclusive of all taxes

Foreign nationals:
Twin sharing: US$ 1120 per person inclusive of all taxes
Single occupancy: US$ 1370 per person inclusive of all taxes

Gold members - Upto 5% off
Silver members - Upto 3% off

WhatsApp to ask for a payment link / QR code to pay.

Cost Includes:

Six nights’ accommodation on twin sharing
All meals as specified
Airport or railway station transfers
internal transportation
Local bird guide
DCP photography mentor
Applicable entry fees and taxes.

Cost Excludes:

Airfare or train fare
Travel insurance
Personal expenses
Tips
Additional meals
Optional excursions
Expenses arising from unforeseen circumstances.

Map

Munsiyari

Policies

Cancellation Policy

Cancellations 30 days or more prior to departure – 20% cancellation fee.
Cancellations within 30 days of departure – non-refundable.

Disclaimer – Force Majeure

The organizer shall not be liable for any delay, change, cancellation, loss, or additional expenses caused by natural calamities, adverse weather, government restrictions, transport disruptions, or any other force majeure events beyond its control. Any itinerary changes made for participant safety shall be binding. Any additional costs arising from such circumstances shall be borne by the participants, and no refund or compensation shall be payable for affected or unused services.

Design Your Custom Tour

Munsiyari – Bird Photography Expedition, Jan 2027

₹ 67,001₹ 72,000

₹67,001₹ 72,000