It is unsurprisingly also called ‘Mini Switzerland’ for its amazing and mesmerizing landscape and views. However, Chopta with its lush green meadows, forests and splendid views is the most refreshing and rejuvenating spot for not only bird watchers, but also trekkers and nature lovers. Some other surrounding areas that are also good bird watching sites include, Anusuya Devi Temple, Mandal and surrounding villages, such as, Ukimath and Gopeshwar. The trails and different treks also showcase some of the best scenic views of the Himalayan terrain and mountains, as well, encounters with different Himalayan bird species that keeps the list of spotted birds getting only longer and more varied. Not just Chopta, but bird watchers, usually follow different routes, covering areas around Chopta as well, such as, Kund, Makku, Kakra Ghat, Chakki bend, Deoriatal, Tungnath and Chadrashila. Other birds that are seen in and around Chopta include, the Grey crested tits, chestnut bellied rock thrush, Himalayan vulture, White collared blue bird, Rufous bellied woodpecker, Himalayan woodpecker, Mistle thrush, White throated laughing thrushes, Black headed Jay, Black faced warbler, Pygmy Wren Babbler, Golden eagle, Fire capped tit, Bush robin, Green tailed sunbird and many more. The nights on the contrary are exceptionally silent and the only sound that can be heard at times is lone the call of the sambhar or barking deer. However, it is the Blue whistling Thrush that is seen around almost all water sources in the area.ĭay and night are contrasting in Chopta where the mornings are music to the ears of song birds, babblers and calls from the pheasants and barbets. The Kalij Pheasants, Kocklass pheasants, Russets sparrows, yellow rumped honeyguides and scarlet finch are commonly found here. Other birds that can be seen in Chopta, include the Snow Patridge, Himalayan Griffon, Himalayan Swiftlet, Mountain Hawk eagle, Grey headed woodpeckers, Himalayan Bluetail, Blue Whistling Thrush, Rufous Breasted Accentor and the Himalayan Buzzard amongst many others. This beautifully colored petite bird is a delight to sore eyes. In Chopta, one can spot the bird species that has often been voted as the most beautiful bird, the Himalayan Monal. It is estimated that about 240 different bird species are found around this region which has also been declared as an Important Bird Area. There are a varied number of exotic and amazing bird species found in Chopta. Chopta, hence is a perfect destination for birding and to explore the bird species that are very specific to the Himalayas. Most of the Himalayan birds are rarely found elsewhere in the country and are well adapted to the Himalayan altitude and climate. Himalayas are the crowning glory of India, and home to many endemic as well as migratory birds. Due to its untouched and unpolluted environ, coupled with the beautiful forests of rhododendrons, deodars and pine, Chopta as well as the surrounding areas are home to a number of Himalayan bird species. It is however, birding that makes Chopta a bird lover’s paradise. Besides, Chopta is also famous for trekking, with many trekking trails starting or en route, such as, the Chopta-Tungnath-Chandrashila and Deoriatal-Chopta trail. Chopta is known for its pristine landscapes and stunning views of some of the mighty Himalayan peaks, such as, Nanda Devi, Trishul and Chaukhamba. Situated in the state of Uttarkhand in India, at a height of 2680m, Chopta, is a small evergreen forest area that lies in the Garhwal Himalayas and is a part of the Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary. Chopta is probably the brightest example of Himalayan birding, acting as a wonderful base for bird watchers who feel a peck of delight at the sight of these flapping beauties. The Himalayas are one of the best places for bird watchers because of the rarity and variety of birds that are spotted amongst the highest peaks and valleys of the world.
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