Bhutan is often pictured as towering mountains, ancient monasteries and culture rich in traditions. But there’s another side to Bhutan that’s equally magical – it’s incredible wildlife. As a Bhutanese girl, I am thrilled to share our tiny kingdom which is home to some of the world's rarest animals, from the Royal Bengal Tiger to the elusive Snow Leopard. So, if you are a nature lover and want a glimpse of the wild side of Bhutan, you are in for a real treat.
Bhutan’s unique geography—stretching from subtropical plains to high alpine regions—gives it a diverse range of habitats. Thanks to our government’s commitment to conservation, over half of Bhutan is protected as national parks and wildlife sanctuaries. It’s like a giant natural sanctuary! This means you have a good chance of spotting some incredible creatures, even if you’re just hiking or traveling through our national parks.
Let’s dive into some of Bhutan’s iconic wildlife and where you might encounter them.
Yes, we have Royal Bengal Tigers here! In Bhutan, tigers have an unusually wide range; you might find them as low as the tropical forests of Royal Manas National Park or as high as 4,000 meters up in the mountains. It’s as if our tigers have mastered the art of adapting to all types of landscapes. That said, these majestic cats are elusive and quite shy, so even if you don’t spot one, it’s still exciting to be in their territory, knowing they’re somewhere nearby.
Where to Go: The best place to see signs of tigers is in Royal Manas National Park or Jigme Singye Wangchuck National Park. Both parks are rich with biodiversity and offer a thrilling mix of lowland and montane forests.
Ah, the Snow Leopard! Known locally as “Gang-seng” (Mountain Lion), this creature is considered a mystical being in Bhutan. They live way up in the harsh, remote alpine regions, so you’ll need some luck and patience to catch a glimpse of one. But even just the thought of being in the snow leopard’s territory is thrilling! In Bhutanese culture, the snow leopard is deeply respected, and we feel a connection with it as a guardian of the mountains.
Where to Go: If you’re set on looking for snow leopards, head to Jigme Dorji National Park. This high-altitude haven is where they roam, especially in the colder months when they descend to hunt.
For a wildlife experience that’s more peaceful, let’s talk about the black-necked cranes. Every winter, these elegant birds fly into the Phobjikha Valley, where they’re treated like VIPs! Bhutanese people have a deep respect for these cranes, and the valley turns into a sort of crane sanctuary from November to February. There’s even a Black-Necked Crane Festival in their honor.
Where to Go: Phobjikha Valley is the place to be! This beautiful valley is a stunning destination on its own, and when the cranes are around, it’s even more magical.
Not all of Bhutan’s wildlife is big and fierce. Red pandas are tiny, fluffy creatures that love bamboo and high-altitude forests. They’re not as easy to spot as you might think, but if you’re lucky, you might catch a glimpse of one munching away or curled up on a branch. Bhutan’s locals often call them “The Little Firefox,” and they’re as adorable as they sound.
Where to Go: Your best bet is the bamboo forests in Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary. If you’re trekking there, keep your eyes peeled!
If you’re ready for a wildlife safari Bhutan style, here’s a quick guide to some of our most popular parks:
Royal Manas National Park: Known as Bhutan’s “cradle of biodiversity,” it’s the perfect spot for spotting elephants, golden langurs, and, of course, tigers.
Jigme Dorji National Park: This park is incredibly diverse, with everything from lush forests to high mountain ranges. Perfect for tracking snow leopards!
Phobjikha Valley (Gangtey): Not officially a national park, but it’s a protected area for black-necked cranes and one of Bhutan’s most beautiful valleys.
Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary: A bit off the beaten path, but worth it for a chance to see red pandas and other unique species.
Plan for Altitude: Bhutan’s wildlife habitats vary in altitude, so be prepared for both tropical forests and cold mountain areas.
Travel with a Guide: Our local guides know these lands well and can help you increase your chances of spotting rare wildlife.
Be Patient and Respectful: Bhutan’s wildlife is shy and won’t always appear on cue. Part of the experience is just being in their presence, knowing you’re sharing space with some of the world’s rarest creatures.
Bhutan’s nature and wildlife are part of what makes this country truly unique. Our wildlife safaris may not be like the ones you see in Africa, but they’re rich with opportunities for those who are patient, curious, and respectful of nature. So, if you’re ready to explore, Bhutan’s wild side is calling!
See you here in the Kingdom, where every sighting is special, and every trek is an adventure in itself.
