Snapshot
Our Sri Lanka birdwatching tour has been planned by experts and comes with a specialist guide. It can be designed to satisfy everyone from the committed twitcher to the amateur bird lover and takes you away from the crowds to some beautiful parts of rural Sri Lanka. Sri Lanka is a birdwatchers’ delight and attracts more than 400 species. Two distinct monsoon seasons and a hilly interior means there is plenty to satisfy you all year round. We indicate our recommended extensions for November to March and also for April to September to take into account seasonal patterns.
Our Opinion
Sri Lanka proves itself one of the finest birdwatching destinations in the world on a tour that works well both for professional birdwatchers and casual bird lovers
Don`t Miss
- Walk the trails of the Knuckles Mountain Range
- Visit the last surviving tropical mountain forests of Horton Plains
- Seek the unique mixed-species bird flocks of the Sinharaja Rainforest
- Watch the water birds on Tissa’s lotus-filled lakes
- See the array of flamingos on Bundala’s Ramsar Wetlands
- Recommended seasonal extensions to Kumana or Mannar
Why This Tour?
Additional Birdwatching Spots & Add-Ons
- Horton Plains National Park: Known for the Sri Lanka Whistling Thrush and Sri Lanka Bush Warbler; ideal for early-morning visits.
- Bundala National Park: A Ramsar wetland that attracts migratory shorebirds, located in southern Sri Lanka.
- Tissamaharama Wetlands: Famous for birdwatching, particularly waterfowl, egrets, and pelicans, near Yala National Park.
Travel Tips for Birdwatchers
- Packing Essentials: Binoculars, a zoom lens camera, bird guidebook, insect repellent, sunscreen, hat, and lightweight long-sleeve clothing.
- Weather Preparation: Sri Lanka’s weather varies by region. Knuckles and Sinharaja can be cooler and misty, while areas like Anuradhapura are typically warmer.
- Birdwatching Etiquette: Move quietly, keep a respectful distance, and avoid bright clothing. Early mornings are the best times for bird activity.
- Guided Tours: Local guides are very knowledgeable about bird habitats and can enhance your experience with spotting tips and background on the ecosystems.
This itinerary offers a rich mix of habitats, from rainforests and wetlands to dry zones, ensuring diverse bird sightings across Sri Lanka. Let me know if you need additional details on any specific part of the tour!
Package Includes
- Accommodation in a shared double / twin room
- Include water bottle when travelling
- Free Wi-fi
- Chauffeur-guide and vehicle for the duration of the tour (including leisure days)
- Both airport transfers
- Expert advice and support prior to and during the tour
Terms & Conditions
- Price shown is a starting price and is subject to change, depending on travel dates / the number of people travelling etc.
- Price shown is based on two people sharing a double / twin room
- See our Booking Conditions for more details
Want to change this itinerary? That’s cool with us.
Tailor-made is what we do. Just let us know your ideas by email or phone and we’ll get right back.
Here’s a detailed breakdown of your 12 Days Birdwatching in Sri Lanka Tour itinerary
- Time Duration :
2.5 - 3 hours
- Attractions :
Relax and get acquainted with your guide.
Evening stroll along the Kelani River for sightings of endemic birds like the Sri Lanka Grey Hornbill and Green-billed Coucal.
Tips : Kitulgala has dense rainforest, so bring light, quick-dry clothing and insect repellent. An early start is essential for the best bird sightings.
- Accommodations :
Budget: Adventure Base Camp Kitulgala
Mid-Range: Kitulgala Rest House
Luxury: Palmstone Retreat
- Attractions :
Full day of birdwatching in Makandawa Forest Reserve. Look for endemics like the Sri Lanka Blue Magpie, Spot-winged Thrush, and Yellow-fronted Barbet.
Optional white-water rafting or river exploration for additional wildlife sightings.
- Activities :
Tips: Wear comfortable hiking shoes, as trails can be damp and slippery. Bring a hat, binoculars, and a bird guidebook if possible.
- Accommodations :
Same as Day 1.
- Time Duration :
2 - 3 hours
- Activities :
Visit Udawattakele Sanctuary, a forest reserve home to Layard’s Parakeet, Yellow-fronted Barbets, and Brown Fish Owls.
Evening at leisure exploring Kandy Lake and the city.
Tips: Udawattakele is a quieter sanctuary with good viewing points. Be mindful of the opening hours, as it closes in the early evening.
- Accommodations :
Budget: Kandy City Hotel
Mid-Range: OZO Kandy
Luxury: The Kandy House
- Time Duration :
1 - 1.5 hours (Drive to the Knuckles Mountain Range, a biodiversity hotspot)
- Activities :
Day 4: Trekking in the Knuckles forest trails, home to rare species such as the Dull-blue Flycatcher, Sri Lanka Bush Warbler, and Crimson-fronted Barbet.
Day 5: Full day dedicated to birdwatching and exploring different elevations within the Knuckles range.
Tips: Knuckles can be cool and misty, especially in the mornings. Dress in layers and bring waterproof gear, as conditions can change rapidly.
- Accommodations :
Budget: Wild Glamping Knuckles
Mid-Range: Sir John’s Bungalow
Luxury: Madulkelle Tea & Eco Lodge
- Time Duration :
2 hours (Drive from Knuckles to Sigiriya, with an afternoon safari at Minneriya)
- Activities :
Day 6: Climb Sigiriya Rock Fortress early, where you can spot raptors and other forest birds. Afternoon relaxation at the lodge.
Day 7: Afternoon safari in Minneriya National Park to view water birds like Painted Storks, Grey-headed Fish Eagles, and the Lesser Adjutant.
Tips: For the safari, bring binoculars and a camera with a zoom lens. Minneriya is also famous for elephants, so you’ll enjoy sightings of both birds and mammals.
- Accommodations :
Budget: Back of Beyond Sigiriya
Mid-Range: Sigiriya Village Hotel
Luxury: Water Garden Sigiriya
- Time Duration :
1.5 - 2 hours (Drive to Anuradhapura, an ancient city surrounded by lakes and rich birdlife)
- Activities :
Day 8: Explore Anuradhapura’s lakes for water birds like Pheasant-tailed Jacanas, Black-headed Ibis, and Spot-billed Pelicans.
Day 9: Early morning birdwatching in Wilpattu National Park, known for forest birds and the elusive Malabar Pied Hornbill.
Tips: Anuradhapura is a cultural city with a slower pace. Use the early mornings for birding and the afternoons to explore temples and local landmarks.
- Accommodations :
Budget: Avasta Resort
Mid-Range: The Sanctuary at Tissawewa
Luxury: Ulagalla Resort
- Time Duration :
4 – 5 hours (Drive from Anuradhapura to Sinharaja, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and premier birding destination)
- Activities :
Day 10: Arrival and short introductory walk around the forest edge.
Day 11: Full day of birdwatching in Sinharaja Rainforest, which is home to nearly all of Sri Lanka’s endemic species, including the Red-faced Malkoha, Sri Lanka Blue Magpie, and Green-billed Coucal.
Tips: Sinharaja is a dense rainforest, so rain gear and sturdy hiking boots are essential. The paths can be challenging, so be prepared for a full day of trekking.
- Accommodations :
Budget: Sinharaja Rest Lodge
Mid-Range: The Rainforest Ecolodge
Luxury: Boulder Garden Hotel
- Time Duration :
3 – 4 hours (Drive back to Colombo for departure or an overnight stay, depending on flight time)
- Activities :
If time permits, visit Diyatha Uyana Wetland Park for last-minute birdwatching near Colombo.
Tips: Colombo offers a range of dining and shopping options, so you can enjoy a relaxed end to your birdwatching tour.
- Accommodations :
If staying in Colombo,
Budget: City Beds Colombo
Mid-Range: Fairway Colombo
Luxury: Shangri-La Hotel, Colombo
1. Accommodation (per night):
Budget
Mid-Range
Luxury
2. Meals (per day)
Budget
Mid-Range
Luxury
3. Transportation
Private Car with Driver
Public Transport and Local Taxis (for budget option)
Train Tickets (for scenic routes)
4. Entrance Fees & Permits
National Parks (e.g., Minneriya, Wilpattu, Sinharaja)
Birdwatching Hotspots (e.g., Horton Plains, Bundala)
Sigiriya Rock Fortress (optional cultural visit)
5. Guided Birdwatching Tours:
Budget
Mid-Range/Luxury
6. Miscellaneous
Souvenirs, Tips, Snacks
Estimated Cost Breakdown Per Person
Budget Option
Estimated Total: $950–$1,050 per person
Mid-Range Option
Estimated Total: $2,200–$2,400 per person
Luxury Option
Estimated Total: $4,800–$5,200 per person
Additional Notes
Group Sharing: Traveling with others reduces costs, especially for private guides and transportation.
Seasonal Pricing: Accommodation and park fees may vary slightly depending on the season.
Customization: Luxury and mid-range options often offer package deals that combine accommodation, meals, transportation, and guided tours, which may provide better value.
These estimates cover essential costs for a 12-day birdwatching tour in Sri Lanka. Let us know if you’d like more detailed guidance or specific recommendations for any part of this itinerary!
