In Search of Owls: A Tribute Walk to Swana Gaun
27th May. 2026. As planned, four of us gathered at Mudkhu Tea Shop at 3:00 PM. After enjoying tea and khaja, we set off towards Swana Gaun, our overnight destination located about five kilometres to the west. The trail led us through the beautiful Nagarjun Forest Reserve, A Nagarjun Sector of Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park, offering a pleasant afternoon walk immersed in nature.
Although birding was not our primary focus during the walk, we could not help but enjoy the many birds we encountered along the way. The forest was alive with calls and movement, making the journey as rewarding as the destination itself. After a little over two hours of walking, we arrived at Swana Gaun.
The evening was calm and beautiful. We checked into a farmhouse lodge situated just below the village, surrounded by forest and open hillside. At the time, we did not realize how fortunate we were with the location. The following morning would reveal it to be an excellent place for birdwatching and enjoying the natural beauty of the area.
Photo: Jaya N. Bhandari
This trip was more than just an overnight birding excursion. It was also a continuation of a tradition established years ago by our dear friend and mentor, Arend Dai. Many of us were first introduced to breeding-season birding through him, particularly the search for owls in the forests of Phulchauki. These outings often coincided with his birthday, although he never liked to mention it. Even after we discovered the date and attempted to celebrate it, he remained characteristically modest, preferring the company of friends and birds over any special attention.
This year, the group consisted of only four participants: Lallit Lalchan, Ram Raj Gurung, Jaya N. Bhandari, and myself. Though small in number, the spirit of the gathering remained unchanged. We spent the evening sharing stories, recalling birding memories, and enjoying each other’s company.
As darkness settled over the forest, the atmosphere became even more special. The quiet of the night was occasionally broken by the calls of owls hidden among the hills. We were delighted to hear both Mountain Scops Owl and Rock Eagle-Owl. Hearing these magnificent birds in their natural surroundings was a memorable experience and a fitting highlight of what we came to call our Owl Night 2026.
Spotted Owlet
Rock Eagle Owl
Our accommodation was simple yet comfortable. We spent the night in a large tent set up inside the house, adding a unique touch to the experience.
The following morning began with one of nature’s greatest gifts—the dawn chorus. Birdsong filled the air from every direction, and among the many voices, the beautiful song of a Tickell’s Thrush stood out. Perched close to the lodge, it seemed to welcome the new day with an unforgettable performance.
After tea, we explored the surrounding trails and fields, enjoying the rich birdlife around Swana Gaun. The area proved to be far more rewarding than we had anticipated, offering excellent opportunities to observe birds in a peaceful and scenic setting.
Following a hearty breakfast, we began our walk back to Mudkhu. The return journey was equally enjoyable, and by the end of the day we had recorded around sixty species of birds. Among the highlights were Collared Owlet and Asian Barred Owlet, both of which we heard during the walk. Every turn of the trail seemed to offer another reason to stop, listen, and appreciate the forest.
Verditer flycatcher and Long-tailed broadbill
Upon reaching Mudkhu, we managed to find a taxi and returned safely to our homes, carrying with us not only a respectable bird list but also another collection of shared memories.
Looking back, this was more than just a birding trip. It was a celebration of friendship, nature, and the traditions that connect us across the years. Most importantly, it was an opportunity to remember a friend whose passion for birds inspired many of us to continue exploring forests, listening for owls, and sharing our love of nature with others.
“Thank you, Arend, for the inspiration, the memories, and the legacy you left behind. We will continue walking these trails, listening for owls, and keeping the tradition alive. A small tribute to you.”
Arend van Riessen
Photo: Jaya N. Bhandari
- Text and all bird images by Vimal Thapa
- Both images of Arend van Riessen by Jaya N. Bhandari
