Kitam Bird Sanctuary
The Kitam Bird Sanctuary is the sole bird sanctuary in Sikkim, established in 2005, covering an area of approximately 6 sq. km. It is a unique ecological pocket as it lies at a much lower altitude (ranging from 1,200 ft to 3,200 ft) compared to most of the state, making its forest type predominantly sub-tropical with abundant Sal, Chir, and Pine trees. This altitudinal range and habitat diversity make it a haven for over 200 species of birds, including residents and migratory visitors, such as the Rufous-necked Hornbill, Chestnut-breasted Partridge, and various types of Wren-Babblers. The sanctuary is also a hotspot for vibrant butterflies and is flanked by two rivers, the River Rangit and the Manpur River, offering tranquil riverside walks and opportunities for angling. The nearby villages of Sumbuk and Kitam provide a glimpse into traditional rural Sikkimese life and culture.
General information
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Ideal Duration:
Half-Day to Full-DayPlace Type:
Wildlife Sanctuary/Ecotourism SpotEntry Fees:
Entry Permit/Fee: A nominal permit fee is levied by the Forest Department, usually around Rs.50 to Rs.100 per person for Indian nationals, and slightly higher for foreign tourists.
Camera Charges: Sometimes, a separate fee (e. g. , Rs.100) is charg...Entry Permit/Fee: A nominal permit fee is levied by the Forest Department, usually around Rs.50 to Rs.100 per person for Indian nationals, and slightly higher for foreign tourists.
Camera Charges: Sometimes, a separate fee (e. g. , Rs.100) is charged for carrying still or video cameras. This fee is essential to the conservation fund.
Guide Charges: Hiring a mandatory or highly recommended local guide for bird-watching treks can cost between Rs.800 to Rs.1,500 for a half-day trip, depending on the route and group size.
Accommodation Charges: Staying at a local homestay in Kitam or Sumbuk typically costs between Rs.1,500 to Rs.3,000 per night, including food, which supports the local community.Timing:
Regular Timings: 6:00 AM to 5:00 PM (Daily). The sanctuary is generally open all year, but actual birding is highly dependent on light and weather.
Ideal Visit Time: Very Early Morning (5:30 AM - 9:00 AM) is crucial for spotting birds as the...Regular Timings: 6:00 AM to 5:00 PM (Daily). The sanctuary is generally open all year, but actual birding is highly dependent on light and weather.
Ideal Visit Time: Very Early Morning (5:30 AM - 9:00 AM) is crucial for spotting birds as they are most active during this period. May to October is considered the best period, as it is comfortable weather and sees an influx of migratory birds.Special Events:
Local Harvest and Flower Festivals: The villages in the area, particularly Sumbuk, may hold local harvest festivals or a special Gladioli Flower Festival when the fields are in full bloom, offering a chance to witness local customs and culture.
W...Local Harvest and Flower Festivals: The villages in the area, particularly Sumbuk, may hold local harvest festivals or a special Gladioli Flower Festival when the fields are in full bloom, offering a chance to witness local customs and culture.
Wildlife Week Celebrations: Events related to wildlife conservation and awareness may be held in October (Wildlife Week in India), sometimes with activities focused on the local schools and communities near the sanctuary.Best Photo Spots:
The River Rangit Bank: The wide, stony riverbank offers a sweeping view of the river winding through the valley and the lush forest slopes, great for landscape shots.
Inside the Bird Hides: Focus your lens on the birds and unique flora from w...The River Rangit Bank: The wide, stony riverbank offers a sweeping view of the river winding through the valley and the lush forest slopes, great for landscape shots.
Inside the Bird Hides: Focus your lens on the birds and unique flora from within the designated hides or watchtowers, providing a chance for excellent wildlife photography.
The Sumbuk Gladioli Fields: A vibrant, colorful contrast to the green forest, the cultivated fields of red gladioli provide stunning foregrounds for mountain or village backdrop photos.
The Old Litchi Tree: A mammoth, ancient litchi tree in the area, sometimes cited as being over 100 years old, makes for a fascinating, textured subject. (Approx. )Photo Gallery
Things To Do
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Guided Bird Watching: The essential activity is taking an early morning (starting around 5:30 AM) guided bird-watching trek along the designated trails. Look out for the famous Rufous-necked Hornbill, Grey-crowned Prinia, and various partridges.
Butterfly Watching: Explore the riverside trails, especially along the Manpur River, to observe the diverse population of colorful Himalayan butterflies, which are also abundant here.
Riverside Nature Walk: Enjoy a peaceful walk along the wide, cool banks of the Rangit River, a major tributary, allowing for quiet reflection and appreciation of the riverine landscape.
Angling/Fishing: Permits can be obtained for angling in the River Rangit, which is a popular spot for recreational fishing, though specific rules and regulatio...
Information
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Why Famous:
Home of the Peacock: It is particularly famous for being one of the few places where the Indian Peafowl (Peacock) can be seen roaming freely in the forests of Sikkim, far from the plains.
Biodiversity Hotspot: Its unique, lower-altitude habit...Home of the Peacock: It is particularly famous for being one of the few places where the Indian Peafowl (Peacock) can be seen roaming freely in the forests of Sikkim, far from the plains.
Biodiversity Hotspot: Its unique, lower-altitude habitat makes it a prime location for bird species not found elsewhere in the state, establishing it as a key site within the Eastern Himalayas Endemic Bird Area (EBA).
River and Village Tourism: The presence of the River Rangit and the traditional village life in Sumbuk and Kitam adds to its fame, offering a combination of nature, adventure (angling/rafting), and culture. -
Architecture:
Natural Ecosystem Focus: The "architecture" is primarily natural, consisting of dense sub-tropical forests, shrubland, and riverine ecosystems, which are the main structures supporting the biodiversity. The total protected area is 6 sq. km.
Man...Natural Ecosystem Focus: The "architecture" is primarily natural, consisting of dense sub-tropical forests, shrubland, and riverine ecosystems, which are the main structures supporting the biodiversity. The total protected area is 6 sq. km.
Man-Made Structures: Infrastructural development is intentionally minimal to preserve the wild habitat. Structures include basic forest rest houses (for accommodation), simple bird-watching towers or hides strategically placed along trails, and small, well-maintained forest trails for trekking and birding. The design philosophy is deeply rooted in eco-tourism, prioritizing low impact on the environment. The focus is on rustic, locally sourced materials for construction where necessary. The nearby Kitam village features traditional 200-year-old mud and bamboo huts, showcasing local vernacular architecture. -
How To Reach:
By Air: The nearest airport is Bagdogra Airport (IXB) (125 KMS). Hire a private taxi to the sanctuary directly, which will take around 4-5 hours. Shared taxis usually go to Namchi or Melli, and you'll need another local cab from there.
By Train... -
Near Tourist Places:
Melli (15 KMS), Namchi (19 KMS), Temi Tea Garden (30 KMS), Char Dham (Siddheshwar Dham) (24 KMS), Samdruptse Hill (27 KMS), Rock Garden (25 KMS), Tarey Bhir (10 KMS), Tirikhola (20 KMS), Ravanlga (45 KMS), Sumbuk Village (Adjacent/0 KMS). (Approx. 10 Places)
Tourism Tips
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Health & Safety: Carry insect repellent, especially in the sub-tropical forest. Wear trekking shoes suitable for muddy/slippery trails. A guide is highly recommended to prevent getting lost and to maximize sightings.
Packing: Essential gear...
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Kitam Bird Sanctuary Tourism:-
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