The Rusty-naped Pitta is found in Vietnam, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Thailand, and China. It inhabits subtropical or tropical moist lowland forests, as well as subtropical and tropical moist montane forests and bamboo forests. This species has relatively dull coloration for a pitta: green above and dirty brown below, with a soft orange nape and a thin black line behind the eye.

The female is duller in color than the male. Like other pittas, this bird is shy and difficult to spot, foraging on the ground, usually under dense cover. It prefers deep, densely forested ravines and gorges. Although rare, this species is currently not classified as endangered.