Birding Lodges

Birding Lodges of the World: Renz Himalayan Retreat

October 5, 2026 by Editor No Comments

Which bird species do you think is the biggest attraction to visitors of your lodge (please only name one species)?

The Cheer Pheasant is a star attraction of the lodge. Even though the region offers myriad species to spot, it remains the pet favourite among wildlife photographers and nature enthusiasts.

What is the name of your lodge, and since when has your lodge been operating?

The lodge is called Renz Himalayan Retreat and is located 70 km from Corbett National Park. A product of Asian Adventures, Renz Himalayan Retreat remains dedicated to providing the best wildlife experiences along with the best Himalayan hospitality.

How best to travel to your lodge?

The lodge is well-connected to major tourist destinations in Uttarakhand such as Ranikhet, Nainital and Almora. The nearest airports are Pantnagar Airport and Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun. Guests can also opt to reach via train, as the nearest railway stations are Kathgodam and Ramnagar.

What kind of services – except for accommodation and food – does your lodge offer to visiting birders? (e.g., guided tours, photography blinds, bird feeders, etc.)

The lodge is well-known for its birdwatching and nature photography trails where one gets to witness the best of the Himalayan biodiversity. Village walks and picnics are another way to understand the region of the Kumaon Himalayas in a better manner. Along with this, excursions to prominent places like Ranikhet act as an add-on in the itineraries of the guests.

Blue-throated Barbet

What makes your lodge special?

Renz Himalayan Retreat lets you enjoy the serene side of the Himalayan holidays. Surrounded by picturesque locations, it gives you the best of both the landscape and the birdlife of the region. The serenity of the region can be best experienced here, away from the hustle and bustle of the crowded tourist destinations.

What are the 10 – 20 most interesting birds that your lodge offers good chances to see?

  • Cheer Pheasant
  • Koklass Pheasant
  • Black Francolin
  • Lesser Yellownape
  • Himalayan Buzzard
  • Blue-fronted Redstart
  • Grey-winged Blackbird
  • Chestnut-bellied Nuthatch
  • Black-throated Tit
  • Mountain Hawk-Eagle
  • Chestnut-bellied Rock-Thrush
  • Himalayan Prinia
  • Yellow-breasted Greenfinch
  • Himalayan Bulbul
  • Red-rumped Swallow
  • Brown Wood Owl
  • Blue-throated Barbet
  • Common Rosefinch.

What is the best time to visit your lodge, and why?

The lodge is ideal to be visited throughout the year, depending on what you want to
witness, because every season offers something new here:

  • October – February – The autumn to winter season not just offers panoramic views but also conditions that are ideal for exploration of the birdlife, wildlife, and landscape of the area.
  • March – June – The perfect season for our nature and bird photography trails. This season is enriched with active birdlife, and also the temperatures remain optimum, facilitating early morning guided walks.
  • July – September – The monsoon turns the area into lush green environs with flowing streams, making the location picture-perfect for nature enthusiasts and people who want a quieter escape.

Is your lodge involved in conservation efforts? If yes, please describe them.

The lodge runs on the firm belief that ecotourism can bring about remarkable changes; hence, the locals are included in every operation of the lodge, from creating chefs to training naturalists. Locals form a crucial part of Renz Himalayan Retreat, and the nature trails make the people aware of the local biodiversity of the region, hence making them aware of their role in conserving nature.

Brown Wood Owl

What other suggestions can you give to birders interested in visiting your lodge? (for example, what to bring, how to prepare for the visit, etc.)

We would highly recommend that guests bring their binoculars, lenses, and extra memory cards, as the place would present itself with ample opportunities to capture exotic species. The guests are advised to plan a stay of 2-4 days to explore the complete region and make the best of their stay.

Do you have activities for non-birders? If so, please describe.

There are many activities for non-birders, such as nature trails, village walks, picnics, learning to cook local cuisines with our chefs, etc. The gazebo offers a view of the stunning Himalayan landscape, and the participants can witness sunrise and spend quiet evenings there.

If any reader of 10,000 Birds is interested in staying at your lodge, how can they best contact you?