The Large Niltava is a striking bird known for its vibrant plumage, with males showcasing a deep, royal blue color on their head, back, and tail, along with a black face and throat. The females, however, have a more subtle, brownish-olive coloration with a pale orange breast, providing excellent camouflage in their forested habitats. Both sexes have a strong, broad bill that is characteristic of the Niltava genus, helping them stand out among other forest birds.

This species is found throughout the forests of the Himalayas, as well as parts of Southeast Asia, including Thailand, Vietnam, and Laos. They prefer montane and submontane forests at elevations ranging from 900 to 2,500 meters. The Large Niltava tends to stay within dense, shaded areas, often near water sources like streams or rivers, and can also be found in forest edges and clearings.

Large Niltavas are known for their solitary nature, although they can sometimes be spotted in pairs, especially during the breeding season. They feed primarily on insects, spiders, and small invertebrates, which they catch through a behavior known as “flycatching.” This involves quickly darting from a perch to snatch prey mid-air before returning to the same or a nearby perch. In addition to insects, they also enjoy small fruits and berries, making them versatile feeders within their ecosystem.