This is the only montane laughingthrush in its range and hence unmistakable. From forehead to nape it is pale brown with indistinct gray streaking. Short whitish eyebrow does not extend prominently behind the eye. Upperparts cold gray-brown, wings and tail browner; chin and breast whitish with broad gray streaking, central belly and vent white, flanks and sides of vent rufous-chestnut. Inhabits stunted montane and reed-bamboo forests; seen in pairs or noisy flocks, producing a melodious “pee-koo-pee-koo” song and several other chatters intermingled with musical notes. Heard more often than seen; its songs and calls are usually the first indication of its presence.