Highlights from Northern India

Our nearly three-week journey through northern India was a vibrant mix of birding, wildlife encounters, cultural sights, and adventure. We began in chaotic Delhi and made our way to Agra, where the iconic Taj Mahal lived up to expectations despite the crowds. At Chambal River, Indian Skimmers, River Terns, and Gharials set the tone for exciting sightings. Bharatpur’s Keoladeo National Park offered two full days of incredible birding—Sarus Cranes, Dusky Eagle-Owls, Painted Storks, and more, with a bonus afternoon featuring Bluethroats and Red-headed Buntings.

Ranthambore brought thrilling safaris with a Bengal Tiger lounging by water, a Sloth Bear and cub, and an Asiatic Leopard—all alongside Painted Spurfowl and Jungle Owlets. At Corbett, we saw Wallcreeper, Ibisbill, and Himalayan specialties like Yellow-bellied Fairy-Fantail and Immaculate Cupwing. Nainital and Pangot gave us Himalayan highland birds, including Cheer Pheasants, Upland Pipits, and flocks of Altai Accentors. Sattal added forest gems like Rufous-throated Partridge and Brown Wood-Owl.

We wrapped up with productive birding at Sultanpur, spotting Sarus Cranes, Striated Babblers, Moustached Warblers, and Sind Sparrow. From riverbanks to mountain cliffs, India’s wildlife dazzled us at every stop. Challenging at times but immensely rewarding - India made every moment count.