A group of birds gather together. They decide they want a leader. The Hoopoe bird steps forward and announces it knows where to find one. But it involves an arduous journey.
The birds are hesitant, but one by one the Hoopoe refutes their doubts. They set off, travelling through several valleys, each of which brings its own particular test of resolve. Surviving and growing as individuals and as a group, the birds finally arrive at the gate of the palace where the leader (the Simorgh) apparently resides. It is here that they realise that their search for a leader is redundant. Their journey to enlightenment is complete.