Rivers and lakes · Koshi Tappu
Boat birding on the Koshi channels
Glide along the Koshi's channels with a local boatman and a bird guide, close to ducks, storks, herons and cormorants, with crocodiles on the banks and the chance of river dolphins in the main stream.
Boat trips start soon after dawn, when mist sits on the water and birds are most active. Local boatmen pole or paddle flat-bottomed boats through the quieter side channels, getting closer to birds than you can on foot. Your bird guide calls out species as they appear. Trips last two to three hours, depending on the route and water level.
In winter expect large flocks of ducks, including ruddy shelducks, gadwall and pintails, alongside cormorants, egrets, herons, storks and ibises. Raptors such as ospreys and marsh harriers patrol overhead. Mugger crocodiles and occasionally gharials bask on sandbanks. Bar-headed geese and other migrants appear in the coldest months, and a large flock taking off is a sound you remember.
In the main river, watch for the rolling back of a Ganges river dolphin surfacing to breathe. Sightings are rare but possible. Wear warm layers in December and January, carry binoculars and a camera with a long lens, and keep still in the boat. Your guide can tell you which channels have had recent dolphin sightings.
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Questions
What birds can I see at Koshi Tappu?
In winter, large flocks of ducks and geese, storks, herons, egrets, ibises, cormorants and raptors such as ospreys and harriers. Grassland residents include the swamp francolin. Koshi Tappu and the Koshi Barrage together are listed as an Important Bird Area and are among Nepal's best birding sites.
Are there dolphins at Koshi Tappu?
The Ganges river dolphin has been sighted in the Koshi River. It is endangered and rarely seen, surfacing briefly to breathe. Boat trips on the main river give the best chance. Ask your guide about recent sightings, and be patient.
Is the Koshi boat trip safe?
Yes, with experienced local boatmen in the dry season, when the water is calm. Wear a life jacket if offered, sit still and do not trail hands in the water, as crocodiles live in the river. Boat trips do not run in the monsoon, when the river is high and dangerous.
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