Kitam Bird Sanctuary, Namchi - Timings, Safari Cost, Best Time to Visit

At a distance of 19 km from Namchi, Kitam Bird Sanctuary is a protected sanctuary located at Kitam near Namchi, Sikkim. Situated between Namchi and Melli, it is recognized as one of the most prominent bird sanctuaries in Sikkim and one of the best places to experience Namchi Tourism.

Lies between 1200 feet and 3200 feet above sea level, Kitam Bird Sanctuary occupy an area of more than 6 square kilometers within thick vegetation of shrubs and sal, pine forests. This sanctuary has two rivers namely, River Rangit and Manpur River. Sumbuk and Kitam are the two villages located in the sanctuary. Tumbol Schor, the highest point of Kitam Bird Sanctuary, offers great panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.

Kitam Bird Sanctuary is heaven for bird lovers and attracts domestic and international tourists around the year for birding. Kitam is the only low altitude bird sanctuary and remain open throughout the year. Home to over 200 species of birds, Kitam is also known for several beautiful butterflies. The bird species found in this sanctuary include Grey-crowned Prinia, Yellow-vented Warbler, Rufous-necked Hornbill and Chestnut-breasted Partridge and many others. Peacocks roaming freely is a common sight inside the sanctuary.

The main activity in this bird sanctuary is bird-watching which has 4 trails. There are a few watch towers and viewpoints in this sanctuary that are ideal for bird watching. Visitors can also visit gladioli farms in Sumbuk, a huge 100-year old litchi tree and a 200 year-old built mud huts in Kitam. One can also visit Alley khet, a meadow which offers magnificent views of hills and rivers, peepal trees, monastery, and dilapidated stupas. Adventure loving tourists can try their hand in rafting and angling in River Rangit.

The best time to visit this place is during the months of October to May, as in winters several colourful migratory birds come to visit here.

Timings: 8 AM - 5 PM