Wildlife and birds · Martam
Morning birding around Martam
The mix of fields, bamboo, cardamom and forest edges around Martam draws a good variety of common Himalayan birds. An early walk with binoculars can turn up bulbuls, sunbirds, drongos, barbets and laughingthrushes.
Photo: Dibyendu Ash · CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
Birds are most active in the first hours after sunrise, so set out at about 6 am. Village edges, where fields meet bamboo and forest, are the richest spots. Even a short walk usually turns up common species such as bulbuls, drongos, sunbirds feeding on flowers, and the loud calls of barbets from the treetops. Laughingthrushes move in noisy groups through the undergrowth.
A local birding guide, arranged in advance from Gangtok, helps a lot with identification and knows where particular birds have been seen. For a longer, more serious outing, the forests of Fambong Lho Wildlife Sanctuary, on the ridge above the area, hold more specialised species, but need forest permission and a full day.
Bring binoculars, a field guide or app, and quiet clothes. Stay on paths and do not play recorded calls to attract birds, which disturbs breeding. October to May is the best season, with spring adding breeding plumage and song.
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Questions travellers ask
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What birds can we see around Martam?
Common species include bulbuls, drongos, sunbirds, barbets, laughingthrushes, minivets and various flycatchers, depending on season. Rarer forest birds are more likely in Fambong Lho Wildlife Sanctuary nearby. We do not promise particular species; a good guide improves the list. Early mornings are best.
Do we need a guide for birding in Martam?
Not for casual birdwatching on village paths, but a birding guide helps with identification and knows recent sightings. Expect about ₹1,000–2,000 for a morning, arranged from Gangtok in advance. For Fambong Lho, forest permission and a guide are needed. Bring your own binoculars.
What is the best season for birding near Gangtok?
October to May. Winter brings clear weather and some altitudinal migrants down from higher forests, and March to May brings breeding plumage and song. The monsoon months are wet and leechy, with fewer birders about. Early mornings are best in every season.
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