Sri Lankan Endemic Bird & Wildlife Tour
16 Day Sri Lanka Tour
15 NIGHTS
USD2,900 Twin Share
Single supplement = USD510
HUGE SAVINGS - AUD4,400, GBP2,320, Euro2,695 as at 8.05.2024
Single supplement AUD770, GBP405, Euro470
Monday 27th October to Tuesday 11th November 2025
Sri Lanka is home and habitat for just over 500 recorded bird species, including, according to eBird, 38 Endemics.
There is a range of species that share the ‘Sri Lankan’ pre-fix, including a Spurfowl, Junglefowl [the national bird of Sri Lanka], Wood-pigeon, Hanging-parrot, Grey Hornbill, White-eye, Blue Magpie, Whistling-thrush, Scaly Thrush, Scimitar Babbler, Bush Warbler, and Myna! Other endemics include Layard's parakeet, Red-faced Malkoha, Yellow-eared Bulbul, Yellow-fronted and Crimson-fronted Barbets, White-throated Flowerpecker, Ashy-headed Laughingthrush, White-faced Starling and Brown-capped and Orange-billed babblers – to name a few. Sri Lanka also shares some species with southern India, meaning that they are regionally endemic, including Blue-faced and Sirkeer Malkohas, Indian Scops-owl, Malabar Pied Hornbill, Yellow-crowned Woodpeckers [among several more], Plum-headed Parakeet, Malabar Trogon, White-bellied Drongo and White-bellied Treepie. Suffice to say that for the travelling birder there are many species to enjoy.
Sri Lanka also hosts a range of other fascinating wildlife – 125 mammal species, including 21 endemics [including monkeys, squirrels and deer], 181 reptiles and nearly 250 species of butterflies. Mammals include such charismatic species as Asian Elephant and Leopard. For any naturalist, Sri Lanka is simply outstanding!
This will be a brilliant two-week bird watching tour of Sri Lanka that includes most of the great birding sites. The tour’s focus is to see a great variety of birds and other wildlife, including Sri Lanka’s endemic birds and those shared with southern India. The tour visits the following sites: Anawilundawa Bird Sanctuary, Mannar Salterns & Lakes, Wilpaththu National Park, Sigiriya Bird Sanctuary, Udawatta Kele Sanctuary, Victoria Park of Nuwara Eliya, Horton Plains National Park, Kitulgala Makandawa Rain Forest, Yala National Park, Bundala National Park, in addition to some secret bird watching sites…
Our tour starts and ends in the capital city of Colombo and includes most meals and three-star shared accommodation throughout. We will have a dedicated Sri Lankan Bird Guide as well as Ken Cross, an experienced bird-tour leader from Australia.
INCLUSIONS:
-
Colombo International airport transits
-
15 nights of 3 Star+ Quality Accommodation.
-
15 Breakfasts, 13 Lunches & 14 Dinners. Meals commence with Breakfast & Dinner on Day 2 & end with Breakfast on Day 16.
-
Free meals for participants combining with Nepal Birding Tour 2 x Breakfast, 3 x Lunches & 2 Dinners - as per itinerary
-
Australian Tour Leader
-
Sri Lankan / English speaking licensed bird watching guide.
-
All required Land Transportation
-
All required entry fee and permits to 12 National Parks & Botanical Gardens.
-
Domestic airport transits
-
Government Taxes / VAT / Service charges
EXCLUSIONS:
-
International Airfares, Alcoholic drinks, soft drinks bottled water. Visa Charges
-
Some meals depending on your arrival in Sri Lanka - See Itinerary
-
Price of optional Colombo Sightseeing Tour on Day 2 – AUD30
Meet tour leader and on tour birding and nature expert
Ken Cross is from the Sunshine Coast, Queensland, Australia
Ken Cross is a teacher by profession and a birder and naturalist by preference. Raised on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast, he has been birding for over thirty years and remains a committed conservationist. He has led birding trips to Western Australia, Outback Queensland, the Wet Tropics and Cape York. In addition, he has organised and led many shorter tours and trips in his role as Convenor for Birdlife Australia on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast. Ken has also led many birding tours internationally to Singapore, Malaysia, Borneo, Thailand, Cambodia, India, Nepal, China, Canada, USA, Costa Rica, Spain, UK, Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Namibia and South Africa! “Nothing”, he claims, “is more wonderful than the first time birding in a brand new country where every call, song and sighting will be a brand new life experience!” Recently, since Covid closed borders, he started a not for profit, Backyards for Biodiversity SEQ Inc - dedicated to expand the amount of urban biodiversity within SEQ and educate residents about our flora and fauna and its importance.
Sri Lankan
Birdwatching
Tour - 16 Day
Oct - Nov 2024
ITINERARY PDF
NEPAL
Birdwatching
Tour - 16 Day
October 2024
ITINERARY PDF
Combine this Tour with a Nepal Birding Tour
Combined Nepal / Sri Lanka - 32 Day / 31 Night
Sat.11th October to Tues.11th November 2025
Price per person = USD5,920 Twin Share for the 2 Tours.
Single Supplement = USD895 for the 2 Tours.
Includes a discount of USD138 Plus at no extra cost :
Free : Colombo, Sri Lanka Sightseeing Tour
Free : I nights accommodation in Negambo, Sri Lanka
Free : 2 x Breakfast, 3 x Lunches & 2 Dinners
Day By Day Presentation:
Day 1: Monday 27th October – Arrival in Sri Lanka
You must organise your international travel such that arrive in Colombo on [or before] this date. If you advise us of your arrival time and flight we will arrange pick up and transfer to our accommodation. No meals arranged for this day.
O/n Camelot Beach Hotel or similar. No meals arranged for today. ( Free Lunch & Dinner for Nepal Birders)
Stork-billed Kingfisher (L) & Orange Breasted Green Pigeon female (R) & White-throated Kingfisher ( Above)
copyright - Kasun Uyanahewa,
​
Day 2: Tuesday 28th Oct – Rest and/or Colombo City Tour*
Today has been planned as a rest and recovery day from travel. The resort is a good place to relax and to see a few of the more common Sri Lankan bird species. If you have the energy to do a brief explore of Colombo a city tour can be arranged at additional expense - *AUD30, but this must be pre-organised before an Australian departure. The first formal activity will be a group evening meal with our Australian leader and our Sri Lankan Birding Guide.
O/n: Camelot Beach Hotel or similar B & D (Free lunch for Nepal Birders)
Day 3: Wednesday 29th October – Birding Wetlands
Today we will visit a couple of excellent wetlands to begin our Sri Lankan birding! The first is Muthurajawela Marsh, located close to Colombo. This is a unique wetland ecosystem that offers excellent opportunities for bird watching. It is one of the island's largest marshes and is characterized by a complex network of lagoons, waterways, and mangrove forests. The Marsh is designated as a Wetland of International Importance under the Ramsar Convention, highlighting its significance for biodiversity conservation.
We should be able to see a fair proportion of the 132 bird species recorded. Some common species recorded here include Little Cormorant, Purple and Grey Herons, Indian Pond Heron, Black-crowned Night Heron, Painted Stork, Asian Openbill, Common Redshank, White-breasted Waterhen, Pheasant-tailed Jacana, Common and White-breasted Kingfishers, and Lesser Whistling Ducks. The endemic Toque Macaque may be seen as well as the more wide spread Smooth-coated Otter.
We then have about a two-hour drive to our second wetland for the day, Anawilundawa Wetlands. Anawilundawa is situated near the coastal town of Puttalam in northwestern Sri Lanka. This wetland complex comprises marshes, lagoons, salt pans, and mangrove swamps. Ebird lists some 210 species at this Bird Sanctuary. There is a large range of common wetland species plus the chance of endemics such as Sri Lankan Jungle-fowl, Sri Lankan Green Pigeon, Crimson-fronted Barbet, Red-backed Flameback, and Sri Lankan Swallow.
O/n: Wilpaththu Treehouse Hotel or similar. B , L , D
Pheasant-tailed Jacana
- copyright to Kasun Uyanahewa, of KGU Photography, Sri Lanka
Lesser Whistling Ducks
Day 4: Thursday 30th October - Wilpaththu National Park
This Wilpattu National Park, located in northwestern Sri Lanka, is the largest and one of the oldest national parks in the country. Wilpattu spans approximately 1,317 square kilometres and is situated in the dry zone of Sri Lanka, characterized by dense scrub jungle, open grassy plains, and numerous natural lakes known as "villus." We will have a full day in the park armed with a picnic lunch.
Wilpattu is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including Leopards, [Wilpattu is renowned for its leopard population, offering a chance to spot these elusive big cats], Sloth Bears, Asian Elephants, Spotted Deer, Sambar, Wild Boar plus Mugger Crocodiles and Water Monitors.
It is also a haven for birdlife, with over 230 recorded species. Some of the notable bird species you may encounter include: Sri Lanka Junglefowl (The national bird of Sri Lanka), Sri Lanka Spurfowl, Sri Lankan Woodshrike, Indian Pitta, Brown-capped Babbler, and the Sri Lanka Grey Hornbill.
O/n: Wilpaththu tree house Hotel or similar. B , L , D
Day 5: Friday 31st November -Thanthirimale Ruins + Mannar Beach
Leaving our hotel after breakfast we will visit the Thanthirimale Ruins. This is a historical site known for its ancient ruins and sacred Buddhist significance. It is nestled amidst a dry zone landscape characterized by scrub jungle and rocky outcrops. Thanthirimale is revered as one of the sixteen sacred sites in Sri Lanka. According to legend, it was visited by Lord Buddha during his third visit to the island over 2,500 years ago. It is believed that the site was blessed by the Buddha himself. The site contains ruins of ancient stupas, monastic complexes, and inscriptions dating back to the Anuradhapura period (3rd century BCE to 10th century CE). The ruins reflect the rich Buddhist heritage and architectural style of ancient Sri Lanka.
The surroundings of Thanthirimale are rich in biodiversity, with dry zone vegetation and wildlife. The area is known for its birdlife, including species like peacocks, parakeets, and eagles.In the afternoon we will visit Mannar Beach. Mannar Beach is a significant hotspot for birdwatching, especially during the migratory season, when numerous species of migratory birds visit the coastal wetlands. In addition to some of the migrant species we should encounter large flocks of flamingos can be seen wading in the shallow waters of the salt pans. O/n: Sinharagama Hotel or similar. B , L , D
​
​
Day 06: Saturday 1st November – Kekirawa Lakes, Sigriya Sanctuary + Popham’s Arboretum
We have three main birding locales today. The first is Kekirawa Lakes, situated near the town of Kekirawa, which is centrally located in the North Central Province of Sri Lanka. The lakes consist of man-made reservoirs (tanks) and natural water bodies, providing vital habitats for waterbirds, shorebirds, and other wildlife.
Sigiriya Sanctuary, located near the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress in the North Central Province of Sri Lanka, offers a unique birdwatching experience amidst ancient ruins and diverse habitats. The sanctuary encompasses a mix of forested areas, water bodies, and scrub jungle, providing habitat for a variety of bird species and wildlife.
In the evening, we will have a nocturnal walk at Popham’s Arboretum to look for the Grey slender-toed Loris and other nocturnal species.
O/n: Nice Place Hotel or similar, Sigriya. B , L , D
Common Tailorbird - copyright to Kasun Uyanahewa, of KGU Photography.
Day 07: Sunday 2nd November - Sigiriya Sanctuary + Peradeniya Botanical Garden
We will spend the morning in Sigiriya Sanctuary.
Sigiriya Sanctuary, located near the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress in the North Central Province of Sri Lanka, is a significant area known for its historical and natural heritage.
Sigiriya, also known as the "Lion Rock," is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its ancient rock fortress built by King Kasyapa in the 5th century AD. The Sigiriya Rock Fortress, perched atop a towering rock outcrop, served as a royal citadel and palace complex adorned with exquisite frescoes and gardens. The area around Sigiriya is steeped in history, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of ancient Sri Lanka.
The Sanctuary is characterised by a diverse range of flora adapted to the dry zone climate of Sri Lanka. The surrounding landscape features dry evergreen forests, scrub jungles, and man-made reservoirs (or "tanks") that support a variety of plant species. Sigiriya is a paradise for birdwatchers, with over 100 species of birds recorded in the area. Endemic species such as the Sri Lanka Green Pigeon, Sri Lanka Hanging Parrot, and Yellow-fronted Barbet can be spotted in the sanctuary. Other common bird sightings include Asian Paradise Flycatcher, Indian Pitta, Malabar Pied Hornbill, and Brahminy Kite.
After travelling south we will visit the Peradeniya Botanical Garden, located near Kandy. This is one of the island's most renowned botanical gardens, celebrated for its rich history, diverse flora, and tranquil ambiance. Peradeniya Botanical Garden traces its origins back to the 14th century when it served as a royal pleasure garden for Kandyan kings. However, its modern incarnation began in the early 19th century during British colonial rule when Alexander Moon transformed it into a botanical garden in 1821. The garden spans over 147 acres and features a stunning collection of flora, including indigenous species and exotic plants from various tropical regions. While Peradeniya Botanical Garden is primarily focused on botanical displays, it is also home to a variety of wildlife. Visitors may encounter a range of bird species including kingfishers, bulbuls, and sunbirds flitting among the trees. Butterflies and dragonflies are common, adding splashes of color to the garden's lush greenery. Monkeys, such as toque macaques and purple-faced langurs, are occasionally seen around the garden.
O/n - Thilanka Hotel, Kandy. B , L , D
Brahminy Kite - Johnny Gannan
Day 08: Monday 3rd November - Udawattakale Sanctuary + Belilena Prehistoric Caves
This Our morning birding will take us to Udawattakele Sanctuary, a picturesque nature reserve located near the city of Kandy. Originally the forest served as a hunting ground used by the Kandyan kings of Sri Lanka. Today, the sanctuary is recognized for its cultural heritage and ecological importance.
The sanctuary protects an area of tropical rainforest and hosts a wide range of wildlife, including Toque Macaques, Purple-faced Langurs, giant squirrels, and Barking Deer. Bird species are abundant and diverse, with sightings of Sri Lanka Hanging Parrot, Layard's Parakeet, Yellow-fronted Barbet, and Sri Lanka Blue Magpie among others.
In the afternoon we will visit the Belilena Prehistoric Cave, a significant archaeological site known for its ancient human occupation and cave systems. ich history dating back tens of thousands of years. The caves, which have a history extending back tens of thousands of years, were first excavated by renowned archaeologist Dr. Paul E. P. Deraniyagala in the 1980s, revealing evidence of prehistoric human habitation. Excavations uncovered stone tools, artifacts, and the skeletal remains of Homo sapiens balangodensis, an ancient human species that inhabited Sri Lanka around 30,000 years ago. The site sheds light on the prehistoric occupation of Sri Lanka and its connections to broader human evolution. The surrounding area of Belilena Caves features lush tropical vegetation typical of Sri Lanka's wet zone rainforests with associated bird species.
O/n: Plantation Hotel or similar. B , L, D
Day 09 : Tuesday 4th November - Makandawa Rain Forest + Victoria Park
Makandawa Rainforest Conservation Reserve, located in the vicinity of Kitulgala in Sri Lanka's wet zone, is a biodiverse area renowned for its lush rainforest, diverse wildlife, and ecological importance. The area has an ebird list of nearly 100 species, although it seems under surveyed.
Victoria Park is a well-known public park located in Nuwara Eliya, a picturesque hill country town. As can be imagined, Victoria Park was established during the British colonial period in the late 19th century. It was initially created as an experimental garden for introducing and acclimatizing plants from other parts of the British Empire.
Over time, the park evolved into a botanical garden and recreational space, open to the public for leisure activities and nature appreciation. While primarily a botanical garden, Victoria Park is also home to various bird species and small mammals.
Birdwatchers can spot endemic and migratory birds, including the Forest Wagtail, the range restricted Kashmir Flycatcher, Pied Thrush, Sri Lanka Scimitar Babbler, Yellow-eared Bulbul, Indian Blue Robin, and Sri Lanka White-eye, and various species of bulbuls and warblers. Squirrels and occasional monkeys can also be seen amidst the trees and shrubs.
​
O/n: Lynden Grove Hotel, Nuwara Eliya. B , L , D
Peacock - copyright to Kasun Uyanahewa, of KGU Photography, Sri Lanka
Day 10 : Wednesday 5th November - Horton Plains National Park + Hakgala Botanical Garden
Horton Plains National Park, our morning’s destination, is a unique and ecologically significant protected area located in the central highlands of Sri Lanka. It was declared a National Park in 1988 due to its importance as a biodiversity hotspot and was recognized for its ecological significance being designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2010.
Horton Plains National Park, situated at an elevation of approximately 2,100 to 2,300 meters above sea level, is characterized by montane grasslands, cloud forests, and diverse ecosystems. The vegetation of Horton Plains is diverse and adapted to the cool, moist climate of the montane region. The park is home to cloud forests dominated by stunted trees and shrubs such as rhododendrons, tree ferns, and dwarf bamboo.
Horton Plains National Park is home to a variety of wildlife species, including several endemic and threatened species. Mammals found in the park include the Sri Lankan sambar deer, wild boar, purple-faced langur, and endemic slender loris. The park is also known for its rich birdlife, with over 80 species recorded, including the Sri Lanka Whistling Thrush, Sri Lanka Wood Pigeon, Yellow-eared Bulbul, Tricolored Munia, Dull-blue Flycatcher, Indian Blackbird, Sri Lanka Brush Warbler, Pied Bush Chat, Hill Swallow, Cinereous Tit, and Paddyfield Pipit.
The afternoon’s birding will be at another botanical garden – Hakgala. Nearly 150 bird species have been recorded here. Hakgala Botanical Garden is situated at an elevation of approximately 1,745 meters (5,725 feet) above sea level, making it one of the highest botanical gardens in Sri Lanka. The garden covers an area of over 28 hectares (69 acres) and features a diverse range of landscapes, including manicured lawns, flower beds, wooded areas, and natural forests.
O/n: Lynden Grove Hotel, Nuwara. B , L , D
Brown-headed Barbet & Common Kingfisher - copyright to Kasun Uyanahewa
Day 11: Thursday 6th November - Yala National Park
We have a three hour drive this morning before an afternoon visit to Yala National Park.
Yala is the country's most famous and second-largest national park covering an area of approximately 978 square kilometres and is situated in the dry zone of Sri Lanka's Southern Province. The landscape is characterised by a mix of dense scrub jungle, grasslands, rocky outcrops, and coastal lagoons. Yala National Park is renowned for its diverse wildlife, including several iconic and elusive species. The park is best known for its high density of leopards, which are among the highest in the world. Other mammals found in Yala include Sri Lankan Elephants, Sloth Bears, Spotted Deer (Chital), Wild Boar, Water Buffalo, and Sambar.
The park is also a birdwatcher's paradise, with over 200 bird species recorded. Common bird sightings in Yala include Crested Treeswift, gaudy displaying Indian Peafowl, Jacobin Cuckoo, Orange-breasted Green Pigeon, Great Stone-curlew, Yellow-wattled Lapwing, Painted Stork, Lesser Adjutant, Black-necked Stork, Asian Green Bee-eater, Marshall’s Iora, Jerdon’s Bush Lark, Sri Lanka Sparrow, Brahminy Starling, and Baya Weaver.
O/n: Oak Ray Wild Yala hotel or similar. B , L , D
Day 12 : Friday 7th November - Bundala National Park + Tissa Lake
Visiting Bundala National Park provides a unique opportunity to experience the coastal wetlands of Sri Lanka, witness spectacular bird migrations, and encounter a variety of wildlife in their natural habitats. The park, protecting some 6000 hectares, comprises a mix of coastal dunes, scrub jungle, lagoons, salt pans, and freshwater lakes, creating a mosaic of habitats that support diverse flora and fauna. The park is part of the Bundala Ramsar Wetland, recognized internationally for its importance as a habitat for migratory waterbirds. Bundala is also adjacent to Yala National Park, forming part of a larger conservation landscape in the region. The park is a haven for waterbirds, shorebirds, and waders, with over 200 bird species recorded. Notable bird sightings include Greater Flamingos Grey-bellied Cuckoo, Watercock, Ruddy-breasted Crake, Indian Stone-curlew, and Great Stone-curlew, Pacific Golden Plover, Small Pratincole, Stork-billed Kingfisher, Jerdon’s Leafbird, Streaked Weaver, Greater Painted-snipe, Pin-tailed Snipe, Black Bittern, Cinnamon Bittern, and Yellow Bittern. In addition to birds, Bundala is home to a variety of mammals, reptiles, and amphibians. Mammals found in the park include Asian elephants, leopards, spotted deer, wild boar, and the endemic toque macaque. Reptiles such as crocodiles, monitor lizards, and various snake species inhabit the wetland habitats.
Tissa Lake, is an ancient reservoir believed to have been constructed during the reign of King Kavantissa (circa 2nd century BCE) in the ancient kingdom of Ruhuna. The reservoir served as a vital water source for agriculture and irrigation in the region, supporting the ancient city of Tissamaharama (also known as Mahagama). It is situated in a scenic landscape surrounded by lush vegetation and wildlife.
Tissa Wewa [Lake] is renowned for its rich biodiversity, particularly its birdlife. The reservoir attracts a diverse array of bird species, making it a popular destination for birdwatching enthusiasts. Common bird sightings include Brown Wood Owl, Asian Woolly-necked Stork, Malabar Pied Hornbill, and a host of waterfowl and waders including Spot-billed Pelican, Lesser Whistling Duck, Pheasant-tailed Jacana, Black-headed Ibis, Little Cormorant, Oriental Darter, White-breasted Waterhen, Grey-headed Swamphen, Common Redshank, Green Sandpiper, Common Greenshank, Ruff, Black-winged Stilt, and Red-wattled Lapwing. In addition to birds, Tissa Wewa is home to a variety of aquatic life, including freshwater fish, turtles, and amphibians. Mugger Crocodiles can occasionally be spotted in the waters of the reservoir.
O/n: Oak Ray Wild Yala hotel or similar. B , L , D
Crimson-fronted Barbet - copyright to Kasun Uyanahewa, of KGU Photography, Sri Lanka
Day 13 : Saturday 8th November - Sinharaja Rain Forest
We have a three hour drive this morning to take us to our last major destination and birding site – Sinharaja Rainforest. This site has an impressive bird list of over 240 species. We will have the afternoon birding this site as well as a full day tomorrow.
​
O/n: 360 Rainforest Hotel or similar. B , L , D
Day 14 : Sunday 9th November - Sinharaja Rain Forest
Encompassing the last extensive patch of primary lowland rainforest in Sri Lanka, Sinharaja Forest Reserve is home to some 64% of the island’s plant species. To underscore its importance for fauna, more than half of its mammals, birds and butterflies are Sri Lankan endemics. A number of threatened, endangered and rare species occur within the reserve including: Leopard, Indian Elephant, endemic Purple-faced Langur, Sri Lanka Wood Pigeon, Green-billed Coucal, Sri Lanka White-headed Starling, Sri Lanka Blue Magpie, Ashy-headed Babbler. Other bird species recorded include Sri Lanka Spurfowl, Sri Lanka Junglefowl, Red-faced Malkoha, Sri Lanka Hill Myna, White-faced Starling, Legge’s Flowerpecker and Lesser Yellownape, Serendib Scops Owl, Sri Lanka Drongo, and Sri Lanka, Crimson-backed Flameback, Ashy-headed Laughingthrush, Green-billed Coucal, Layard’s Parakeet, Orange Minivet, and Plum-headed Parakeet.
O/n: 360 Rainforest Hotel or similar. B , L , D
Crimson-fronted Barbet - copyright to Kasun Uyanahewa, of KGU Photography, Sri Lanka
​
Day 15 : Monday 10th November - Kirala Kele Sanctuary
Kirala Kele in Sinhala means ‘forest of kirala trees- or a ‘mangrove forest’. It covers an area of 1,800 ha with 310 ha of it being designated a wetland. Rare migratory birds such as the grey-headed lapwing, turtle dove, comb duck, marsh and even the greater spotted eagle have been recorded here.
According to a study conducted by IUCN Sri Lanka, 83 plant species, 25 species of fish and 13 mammal species including the endemic Purple-faced Leaf Monkey inhabit Kirala Kele. The study recorded 103 bird species of which 48 were wetland birds.
O/n: Fairway Hotel or similar. B , L , D
Day 16 : Tuesday 11th November –
Tour ends with transit to Airport for your International Flight. - Breakfast
If you would like to add a pre-tour or post-tour addition to this itinerary please contact Flynn’s Tours. October/November are excellent month to be in Sri Lanka.
