The resort is surrounded by farmland (rice paddy etc), and has 100 metres of river frontage, with this bank and that opposite covered in natural vegetation of reeds, grasses and shrubs. These two environments means that many different species can be observed just from the resort itself. Birdwatchers who have visited us in the past make sure they book the rooms nearest the river with unobstructed views. So far the species count has been impressive with several rare species identified. A recent guest who stayed for just a couple of days and was a casual spotter came up with some 30 plus species just within the immediate area of the resort. In addition, we can arrange for a boat to gently float downstream in order to get a closer look at other areas, sand bars etc.

What is also very special is that a drive of just 40 km up into the mountains, will find one at an altitude of 2000 metres in just over an hour. This particular area is right on the Burmese border and has only recently been opened up to visitors. The great beauty of the location is that firstly it is virtually undisturbed, and secondly a small road traverses a high ridge through the high altitude forest and which means that not only is access easy, but that the forest has been opened up, thus allowing much easier viewing. The usual frustration of forest spotting - of hearing but rarely seeing - is thus considerably reduced. A recent visit at the end of the rainy season which is by no means the best time to visit, yielded almost 50 species in the space of just 4 hours and included minivets, munias, treepies, orioles and a great sighting of a Peregrine Falcon.

For a report from a visit by one of the north's most experienced birdwatchers, please click here.