Bird walk at Zabarwan range, Srinagar, J&K
- Srinagar
- 9 August, 2026
- Mufeeq Ahmad Malik
About Zabarwan Range
The Zabarwan Range forms the scenic eastern backdrop of Srinagar, overlooking the iconic Dal Lake and extending into the lower reaches of the Himalayas. Characterized by mixed broadleaf forests, conifer patches, rocky slopes, and seasonal streams, the range supports an exceptional diversity of Himalayan flora and fauna. Shankaracharya Hill, one of the most well-known locations within the range, offers excellent birdwatching opportunities owing to its varied elevation and forest cover. The region experiences distinct seasons, with lush green forests in summer, vibrant autumn foliage, and snow-covered landscapes in winter, attracting both resident Himalayan birds and seasonal migrants.
The combination of mature woodland, open clearings, and nearby wetlands creates a rich mosaic of habitats that support raptors, flycatchers, warblers, thrushes, and numerous forest specialists. Besides its ecological significance, the Zabarwan Range is deeply intertwined with the cultural and spiritual heritage of Kashmir, making every visit a blend of natural beauty and history. Its tranquil trails, panoramic viewpoints, and remarkable avian diversity make it one of the finest birding destinations in the Kashmir Valley for beginners, photographers, and experienced birdwatchers alike.
Bird Guide - Mufeeq Ahmad Malik
He has been actively birding in Jammu & Kashmir, recording over 190 bird species in a single year. His notable sightings include rare species such as the Sanderling, Western Tragopan, and Rustic Bunting, reflecting his strong field expertise and passion for exploring and documenting the region's unique birdlife.
Bird walk Location
Common birds of Zabarwan Range
The forests of the Zabarwan Range are home to an impressive mix of Himalayan woodland birds, colourful flycatchers, warblers, raptors, and resident species. Birdwatchers may encounter the endemic Kashmir Flycatcher alongside Rusty-tailed Flycatcher, Western Crowned Warbler, Greenish Warbler, Whistler’s Warbler, and Brownish-flanked Bush Warbler flitting through the forest canopy. The slopes also support Blue Whistling-Thrush, Black Bulbul, Streaked Laughingthrush, Long-tailed Minivet, Ashy Drongo, and Asian Tit. Raptors such as Booted Eagle, Eurasian Hobby, and Black Kite are frequently seen soaring above the ridges, while Chukar can often be spotted on rocky hillsides. Around the forest edges and nearby settlements, Rock Pigeons, House Sparrows, House Crows, Common Mynas, Indian White-eyes, and Asian Koels are common. Wetland-associated birds including Black-crowned Night Heron and Little Egret can also be observed near water bodies adjoining the hills. The diversity of habitats makes every walk through the Zabarwan Range an exciting opportunity to discover Kashmir’s unique birdlife.
Booted Eagle
Black Kite
Kashmir Flycatcher
Greenish Warbler
Streaked Laughingthrush
Blue Whistling-Thrush
Long-tailed Minivet
Ashy Drongo
Asian Tit
Indian White-eye
Asian Koel
Black-crowned Night Heron
Little Egret
Rusty-tailed Flycatcher
Western Crowned Warbler
Whistler's Warbler
Eurasian Hobby
Brownish-flanked Bush Warbler
Chukar Patridge
Rusty-tailed Flycatcher
Summary of Walk
On 9th August 2026, a bird walk was conducted along the Zabarwan Range in Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, guided by Mufeeq Ahmad Malik, with 5 participants joining the outing. The walk began at the ghats of Dal Lake, where Kingfishers and Herons welcomed the group at the start of the trail. From there, the walk continued through dense foliage, offering a calm and relaxing atmosphere as the group made their way through this scenic Himalayan landscape, and the group recorded 8 species over the course of the morning.
Along the trail, participants heard the calls of the White-throated Kingfisher and the Streaked Laughingthrush echoing through the foliage. The group then moved on to explore a new stretch of the trail, where they had the good fortune of spotting the shy Brownish-flanked Bush Warbler along with some Asian Tits flitting among the branches. Black Drongos were also seen along the way. The combination of the serene Dal Lake surroundings and the quieter forested stretches made for a peaceful and rewarding birding experience amid the natural beauty of the Zabarwan Range.
Number of Participants
0
