Phulchowki, the largest peak in Kathmandu valley, is about 18 kms from the town itself. The place can be easily reached by Taxi in an hour. Godavari Forest is located on the base of the Pulchowki hill. One can hike from Godavari to the top of the Phulchowki through the dense forest. There is a small natural stream which can be crossed by foot.
The only endemic species of Nepal, the Spiny Babbler can be seen in Godavari Forest along with Tesias. A total of 265 species of birds are recorded in this area!
Another famous species of bird that can be seen here is Cutia, Khalij Pheasant, Collared Owlet, Wedge-tailed Green Pigeon, Scaly Thrush, Eurasian Jay, Rufous-bellied Niltava, Grey-sided Warbler, Striated Bulbul, Aberrant Bush-warblers, Chestnu-crowned Warbler, Black-faced Warbler, White-browed Shrike-Babbler, Striated Laughing-Thrush, White-browed Fulvettas and Nepal Fulvettas.
Day 1:
Reach Godavari Forest by a Taxi and continue to Phulchowki on foot through the Jungle. It is gonna be a long day and will take around 3 to 4 hours to reach Phulchowki depending on how you cope with the trekking. The basic rule is to be the first one on the track. Since the track is a very famous for trekkers, it can be quite crowded on a good day. So getting up very early is a must. Once at Phulchwki, take rest for an hour or so and bird around Phulchowki for the rest of the day. Catch a taxi and return to Kathmandu.
Another way to do birding here is to go to the top of Phulchowki and desend from there. It is much easier than climbing up. The main issue is that you may not find all the birds since trekkers prefer to climb up than desending. It wont be an easy trekking mainly because of my equipment. Especially the 600mm lens and the Tripod.
I have already spoken to Mr. Hari to see whether he can guide me for the whole trip. He is highly recommeded by Oscar Campell who did a visit to Nepal on last April. The only issue with Hari is that he is based in Phokara not Kathmandu. So his availability may be an issue. I am also trying to see whether anyone from Kathmandu can be found. A local guide is very much recommended especially when birding with costly equipment. This will reduce the risk of getting robbed and aslo will be very helpful in finding the right spots for birding.
As per the plan I am supposed to bird in Phulchowki on the 5th Feb. Hope there wont be any rain and it is a clear day.
Total expectation for the site is quite high. But I have my own thoughts about the no of species that I can find during the day. I am expecting around 30 new species (lifers) on this day including the Spiny Babbler, Khalij Pheasant, Collared Owlet and Cutia.
