Gujarat Birding Odyssey Tour
Destinations: Surat, Dangs Forest, Velavadar, Little Rann of Kutch, Ahmedabad
Duration: 06 Nights and 07 Days
Tour Code: #1584
Description
This immersive Gujarat Birding & Wildlife Expedition takes you through some of the most diverse and contrasting ecosystems of western India:
dense, bird-rich forests of the Dangsopen grasslands of Velavadar, stark, otherworldly landscapes of the Little Rann of Kutch. The trip is meant for passionate birdwatchers and nature lovers and focuses on rare and endemic species, great habitat diversity, and doctors' experience, led safaris in a beautifully paced manner.
Among the top birding regions are Vansda National Park, Purna Wildlife Sanctuary, Blackbuck National Park, Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary, and the Little Rann of Kutch, thus making it possible to spot forest, grassland, wetland, and desert species all in the same itinerary. A lot of focus is given to the representative and highly desired birds such as the Forest Owlet, Vigors's Sunbird, several owl and woodpecker species, and also grassland specialists and migratory waterbirds.
Besides the pure nature experience, there are also memorable wildlife sightings and a bit of cultural heritage at Patan, making this tour a holistic and satisfying natural history experience of Gujarat.
Day 01: Arrive at Surat to Dangs Forest Retreat
Meals: Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: Dang Forest Retreat
Arrive at Surat and meet our representative for a scenic drive into the forested hills of the Dang. As the landscape gradually changes from plains to lush sal and teak forests, you’ll begin to feel the calm of this lesser-explored region of Gujarat. On arrival at Dang Forest Retreat, check in and take time to unwind after your journey. Enjoy the peaceful surroundings, forest views, and the soothing sounds of nature.
In the afternoon, head out for a gentle birding walk around the retreat and nearby forest trails, guided by a naturalist. The Dang are known for their rich avifauna, and this is a great introduction to the region’s birdlife. As dusk settles, prepare for a special owling session, when nocturnal birds become active. Listen for haunting calls and watch for owls emerging in the twilight, making your first evening in the Dang both immersive and memorable.
Overnight Stay.
Day 02: Dang Forest
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Accommodation: Dang Forest Retreat
Wake up early to the sounds of the forest and set out for a full day of birding in the rich landscapes of the Dang Forest region. Today is dedicated to exploring prime birding habitats within Vansda National Park and Purna Wildlife Sanctuary, both known for their dense, moist deciduous forests, riverine patches, and excellent avian diversity.
Accompanied by an expert naturalist, spend the day scanning forest trails, canopy layers, and clearings in search of some of the region’s most sought-after species. The major focus will be on locating the elusive Forest Owlet, one of India’s rarest endemic birds. Other key targets include the vibrant Vigors’ Sunbird, along with an impressive diversity of raptors and forest birds.
The Dang forest is especially famous for its nocturnal and cavity-nesting birds, offering opportunities to record 10+ species of owls and 10+ species of woodpeckers, ranging from tiny pygmy woodpeckers to larger flamebacks and wrynecks. Breaks will be taken during the day to rest, review sightings, and enjoy the forest atmosphere before continuing explorations.
Return to the retreat by evening with a rewarding checklist, making this an immersive and highlight-filled day for serious birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts alike.
Overnight Stay.
Day 02: Dang Forest
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Accommodation: Dang Forest Retreat
Begin another early morning in the heart of the Dang Forest, making the most of the region’s peak bird activity hours. Today allows for deeper exploration and slower, more focused birding across Vansda National Park and Purna Wildlife Sanctuary, covering areas not visited on the previous day and revisiting productive trails based on recent sightings.
With the flexibility of an extended schedule, spend time observing forest behavior, mixed-species feeding flocks, canopy specialists, and understory birds. This day is ideal for improving views, photography opportunities, and adding missed or elusive species to your checklist. The varied habitats—dense evergreen patches, bamboo brakes, streams, and forest clearings—support a wide range of resident and migratory birds.
Naturalists will help interpret calls, movements, and ecological interactions, making the experience both educational and rewarding. As the day progresses, continue birding at a relaxed pace, soaking in the tranquility of the Dang forest and its remarkable biodiversity.
Return to the retreat in the evening for rest and reflection, sharing sightings and stories from another fulfilling day immersed in one of western India’s finest forest birding landscapes.
Overnight Stay.
Day 04: Dang Forest to Velavadar
Meals: Breakfast in Dang, (Lunch On Own), and Dinner in Velavadar
Accommodation: Blackbuck Wildlife Lodge
After an early breakfast, depart from the Dang Forest and begin your journey towards Velavadar, home to the famous Blackbuck National Park. The drive takes approximately 6 hours, passing through changing landscapes from dense forests to open plains. En route, make short stops for opportunistic birding in wetlands, farmlands, and roadside habitats, offering chances to spot raptors, larks, storks, and other grassland and agricultural species.
Arrive at Velavadar by afternoon and check into your accommodation. After some rest and refreshments, head out for an afternoon safari into the vast open grasslands of the park. Velavadar is renowned for its large herds of blackbucks, as well as nilgai, foxes, and wolves.
The park is also a paradise for grassland birds, and the evening safari provides excellent opportunities to spot species such as harriers, coursers, larks, pipits, and wheatears, along with migratory birds depending on the season. As the sun sets over the endless grasslands, enjoy a contrasting yet equally rewarding wildlife experience before returning to the lodge for the night.
Overnight Stay.
Day 05: Velavadar to Little Rann of Kutch
Meals: Breakfast in Velavadar, (Lunch On Own), and Dinner in LRK
Accommodation: Rann Riders
Start the day with an early morning safari in Blackbuck National Park, when the grasslands are most active. This is an excellent time to observe blackbuck herds in soft morning light, along with grassland birds and raptors beginning their daily activity. After the safari, return to the lodge for breakfast and freshen up.
Post breakfast, depart for the Little Rann of Kutch (LRK), a vast and unique semi-arid landscape known for its seasonal wetlands and salt flats. En route, make a special birding stop at Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary, one of Gujarat’s most important wetland ecosystems. Here, spend time observing a rich diversity of waterbirds, waders, flamingos, pelicans, ducks, and migratory species, depending on the season.
Continue the drive towards LRK, arriving by evening. On arrival, check in to your desert lodge or eco-retreat and unwind after the long yet rewarding journey. Enjoy the quiet ambience of the Rann, watch the changing colours of the sky over the open horizon, and relax in preparation for the unique wildlife experiences awaiting in the Little Rann of Kutch.
Overnight Stay.
Day 06: Little Rann of Kutch
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Accommodation: Rann Riders
As the day begins with a morning jeep safari, exploring the vast expanses of Little Rann that come alive with the first light. Accompanied by experienced naturalists, traverse through the diverse landscapes, keeping a keen eye out for the myriad bird species that inhabit the region. From migratory birds to resident species, the morning safari unveils the intricate tapestry of avian life against the backdrop of the unique wilderness.
Following a leisurely break, resume your birding adventure with an afternoon jeep safari. The changing light conditions and the dynamic nature of the Little Rann provide a fresh perspective on birdwatching. Encounter different species engaged in various behaviors as your jeep navigates through the varied ecosystems of the sanctuary.
As the day unfolds, the expert guidance of naturalists enhances your chances of spotting rare and vibrant birds, ensuring a comprehensive birding experience.
Overnight stay.
Day 07: Little Rann of Kutch to Ahmedabad
Meals: Breakfast
Begin your final day with an early morning safari in the Little Rann of Kutch, making the most of the cool hours to enjoy last sightings of the Indian Wild Ass, desert wildlife, and birdlife across the open flats and wetlands. This safari offers a fitting conclusion to your diverse Gujarat wildlife experience.
After returning to the lodge, check out and begin the drive towards Ahmedabad. If time permits, stop en route at Patan to visit the magnificent Rani ki Vav (Queen’s Stepwell), a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its intricate stone carvings and exquisite stepwell architecture, offering a cultural highlight alongside the natural journey.
Continue onward to Ahmedabad Airport for your onward flight, departing with unforgettable memories of forests, grasslands, wetlands, deserts, and the rich birdlife and wildlife of Gujarat.
Tour End.
Highlights
- Rare chance to track the endemic Forest Owlet in the Dang forest
- Extensive birding in Vansda NP & Purna WLS, Gujarat’s finest forest habitats
- Record 10+ species of owls and 10+ species of woodpeckers
- Grassland safari at Blackbuck National Park, home to India’s largest blackbuck herds
- Wetland birding stop at Nalsarovar, a paradise for migratory waterbirds
- Desert safaris in the Little Rann of Kutch, habitat of the Indian Wild Ass
- Excellent diversity of forest, grassland, wetland, and desert birds in one tour
- Guided by experienced naturalists with a strong focus on ethical birding
- Optional cultural visit to Rani ki Vav (UNESCO World Heritage Site) at Patan
- A perfectly balanced expedition for serious birders and wildlife enthusiasts
Services Included
- Accommodation for 03 nights in Dang Forest
- Accommodation for 01 night in Velavadar
- 02 Safari in Velavadar with park entrance fee
- Accommodation for 02 nights in the Little Rann of Kutch
- 03 Jeep Safaris in the Little Rann of Kutch with park entrance fee
- Meals as per the itinerary
- Dedicated guide for the entire tour
- Dedicated transportation for the entire tour
- All applicable taxes
Services Not Included
- Optional tours, tips, laundry, drinks, bottled water, meals not specified
- Airfare, Visa, insurance, monument entrance fee, camera fee, etc
- Any last-minute safari price hike by the forest department
- Anything not included in the above inclusion
