Mukteshwar’s Wildlife: A Guide to Birdwatching & Spotting Himalayan Fauna

Why Mukteshwar is a Wildlife Haven

Sitting at an altitude of over 2,000 meters, Mukteshwar’s landscape includes dense oak, deodar, and rhododendron forests, open meadows, and hidden waterfalls. This diverse habitat supports a wide range of Himalayan birds, small mammals, reptiles, and insects, many of which are rare or endemic to the region.

What’s unique here? You don’t need to go deep into the jungle. Sometimes, the best wildlife experiences happen right outside your homestay window.

Birdwatcher’s Paradise: Feathered Friends of the Hills

Birdwatching in Mukteshwar is both relaxing and thrilling. With over 200 species of birds recorded in and around the area, it’s one of the most exciting yet underrated destinations for bird lovers.

Commonly Spotted Birds:

• Himalayan Bulbul – Their musical chirping sets the tone for a peaceful morning.
• Blue Whistling Thrush – Recognized by its rich, fluty call echoing through valleys.
• Red-billed Blue Magpie – Bright, noisy, and incredibly photogenic.
• Oriental Turtle Dove
• Green-backed Tit
• Himalayan Griffon Vulture – Soaring high above the cliffs.

Best Birding Spots:

• Sitla forest region
• Chauli Ki Jali cliffs
• Trails near Bhalu Gaad Waterfall
• Vanshivat Homestay garden (a hidden birding gem!)

Pro tip: Early mornings (6:00–8:00 AM) are the best for bird sightings. Don’t forget to carry a birding guide or download an app like Merlin Bird ID for easy identification.

Wild Neighbors: Animals You Might Encounter

Mukteshwar is home to a variety of small to medium-sized mammals and is part of the corridor used by larger animals traveling between forest reserves.

Keep Your Eyes Peeled For:

• Himalayan Goral (mountain goat)
• Leopards (rare sightings, mostly nocturnal)
• Indian Marten – Elusive but spotted by sharp-eyed travelers
• Barking Deer
• Red Fox
• Langurs & Macaques

These animals are mostly shy and avoid human interaction, but quiet trekkers or lucky guests often catch glimpses during walks or drives.

Reptiles, Insects & Butterflies

Mukteshwar also supports colorful butterflies, dragonflies, and rare beetles. In spring and monsoon, the region comes alive with fluttering colors.

You may also come across harmless snakes, geckos, and even the beautiful but elusive Himalayan Pit Viper in the denser parts of the forest (don’t worry, it’s very shy).

Butterfly tip: Sitla and the fruit orchards around Mukteshwar are great for butterfly spotting, especially in spring.

Wildlife-Friendly Stays: Vanshivat Homestay

If you’re serious about connecting with nature, stay somewhere that respects and supports it.

Vanshivat Homestay, surrounded by untouched forests and terraced gardens, is not just luxurious—it’s also a quiet haven for birds and animals. Guests often spot Himalayan birds from their balcony, or stumble upon a group of langurs while on a morning walk. It’s not unusual to hear barking deer at night or catch the flutter of an owl during twilight.

Bonus: The staff and locals often share sightings, stories, and help guests with nature trails and bird names.

When to Visit for the Best Wildlife Experience

• Spring (March–May): Great for birds, butterflies, and forest walks.
• Monsoon (July–August): Lush forests and active insect/bird life. Expect leeches on trails.
• Autumn (September–November): Crisp weather, clearer skies, perfect for photography.
• Winter (December–February): Fewer birds, but great chances to spot animals against snowy backdrops.

Wildlife Photography Tips

• Carry a zoom lens or binoculars
• Wear earthy colors to blend in
• Move slowly and stay quiet
• Morning and evening golden hours give best light

And remember, don’t chase animals or birds. The magic is in observing them on their terms.