Birding morning in the Shingba forest

Birding in Shingba means slow driving, frequent stops and a lot of listening. Feeding flocks move through the forest in the early morning, mixing tits, warblers, laughingthrushes and other small birds, and a good guide can pick out calls long before you see the birds. Wikipedia lists the hoary-throated barwing and the wood snipe among the sanctuary's species.

Spring brings breeding birds and song; autumn has clearer skies and birds moving down from higher altitudes. Start at first light, carry binoculars and a field guide or app, and wear dull colours. Expect cold fingers until the sun reaches the road.

This works best as a private trip on a second morning in Lachung, or by leaving very early and visiting Yumthang afterwards. Shared jeeps cannot accommodate birding stops. Always stay on the road and follow the guide's lead near steep ground.