Watch acres of sky and land fill with 20,000 birds – Bundala National Park

Birdwatching at Bundala National Park lets you explore 6000 hectares brimming with bright-eyed birdlife – with close to 200 species inhabiting the skies, trees and lagoons.

SLDT/1702/BW01

Why should you book this trip?

• It is a fascinating safari for those who love birds, mammals and crocodiles in a beautiful natural environment.

• Bundala National Park is renowned as a Ramsar site; a wetland of international importance, where migratory birds nest during their stay - away from winter.

• One of the ideal places to see an impressive diversity of both migrant and endemic birds in Sri Lanka, at a great frequency and at times unbelievable proximity.

• Equally unique place to see both saltwater crocodiles and freshwater crocodiles.

• A wonderland of elephants, most of which reside permanently, with seasonal migratory herds arriving for short periods at Bundala.

• The biodiversity of the Park is prolific with 383 plant species being recorded here, six of which are endemic and seven endangered.

• A Park with countless picture-postcard opportunities.

• Visiting this Park could easily be combined with the dates you spend in the southern Sri Lanka, or when you are visiting Yala National Park.

• Opportunity to interact with the local fishing community.

• An experienced birding guide/naturalist accompanying you will make this tour that much more meaningful and engaging.

See over 95% of endemic birds in one spot while you picnic – Sinharaja Rainforest

Wander through 3 unique trails inside a birding wonderland, at the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and World Heritage Site, Sinharaja Rainforest. Witness the world-famous bird wave with a whopping 147 different species, while enjoying a forest picnic.

SLDT/1810/BW08

Why should you book this trip?

• With more than 95% of Sri Lanka’s endemic birds found here, bird watching in Sinharaja is a phenomenal experience to have. More than 147 species have been recorded to date.To name a few commonly sighted birds: the Sri Lanka Blue Magpie, Red Faced Malkoha, Grey Hornbill and White Headed Starling. About 13% of the birds are migratory, coming in for their winter break.

• Over 50% of Sri Lanka’s endemic species of mammals and butterflies are found in Sinharaja.

• Besides birding in Sinharaja, watch out for the Sambhur, the most common deer species and the Mouse-deer. Leopards are very seldom sighted, but their frequent presence has been confirmed by tracks and other signs. The most commonly seen primate is the purple-faced leaf monkey. In contrast, the Brown Mongoose and the Golden-palm Civet have been occasionally sighted.

• The rainforest is habitat to more than 60% of Sri Lanka’s endemic trees, some of which are considered rare.

The Forbidden Forest trek and birdwatching trail – Udawattakele

Walk through the historical forest used by dead kings of old Ceylon, and see everything from the endemic Layard's parakeet to the rare Three-toed kingfisher at Udawattakele Forest Reserve.

SLDT/1702/BW06

Why someone should book this

• Udawatte Kele is the only forest reserve in the Kandy city limits and is a great addition to your list of things to do in Kandy
• It was once known as Uda Wasala Watta meaning the garden above the royal palace and is of significant cultural and  historic value
• This breathtaking forest is a hotspot for bird enthusiasts
• It is a moderate track that is great at burning off the excess calories gained while holidaying
• This historic sanctuary is famous not only for its avifauna but also its variety of plant species including lianas, shrubs and  small trees. It contains 460 plant species including 135 species of trees and nine endemic species
• You will be able to see the historically important ruins and places from the Kandyan Kingdom such as the Lady Horton’s Road, Royal Pond, Lovers’ Walk and Marble Seat.
• The opportunity to visit the Senkada Cave, where a hermit lived alone in the forest.
• It is also home to several species of mammals and reptiles, which makes it a holistic nature experience
• It is easily accessible and has a great educational and recreational appeal
• The forest is also a very important religious site as it contains three Buddhist meditation hermitages and three rock shelter dwellings
• It is suitable for all ages