Endemic Bird Tour
Tour Plan
| Tour | Location | Habitat | Best Time to Visit | Endemic Birds |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sinharaja Forest Reserve & Biosphere Reserve | South-central Sri Lanka, 33km south of Ratnapura, 11km south of Kalawana, 51km northeast of Galle | A vast rainforest, partly logged and regenerating | Anytime of the year Sinharaja is Sri Lanka’s only remaining primary tropical rainforest, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, covering 36,000 hectares of diverse and endemic flora and fauna. This rainforest offers unparalleled opportunities for wildlife photographers, especially for birdwatchers seeking endemic species like the Sri Lanka blue magpie, Red-faced malkoha, and Sri Lanka jungle fowl. With its lush canopy, Sinharaja is a must-visit destination for capturing vibrant wildlife moments, from insects to amphibians, and rare birdlife. | Sri Lanka Drongo, Sri Lanka Thrush, Orange-billed Babbler, Crimson-backed Flameback Woodpecker, Serendib Scops Owl, and more. |
| Udawalawe National Park | South-central Sri Lanka, 60km southeast of Ratnapura, 13km north of Ambilipitiya | Moist semi-evergreen forest, grasslands, scrubland, a large tank, and riverine forests | Northern migrant season, but it’s worth visiting any time of year Udawalawe is located on the border of Sri Lanka’s wet and dry zones, covering 32,315 hectares, including the Udawalawe Reservoir. The park is well-known for its elephants and a variety of endemic birds. Whether you’re exploring the park’s grasslands or riverine forests, it offers a fantastic range of habitats perfect for wildlife photography. | Sri Lanka Woodshrike, Crimson Fronted Barbet, Crimson-backed Flameback Woodpecker, Sri Lanka Swallow. |
| Nuwara Eliya | South-central Sri Lanka, 1884 meters above sea level | Year-round Known as the “City of Lights”, Nuwara Eliya boasts a cool, temperate climate with breathtaking hill station views. Once a British colonial resort, it is now a popular escape for travelers, featuring scenic landscapes, tea plantations, and charming bungalows surrounded by hedgerows. It’s a great base for exploring nearby national parks and enjoying Sri Lanka’s highland beauty. | ||
| Horton Plains National Park | South-central Sri Lanka, 18 km south of Nuwara Eliya | Cloud forest, grassland | Anytime of the year Horton Plains is a protected area at an altitude of 2,100-2,300m, famous for its montane grasslands and cloud forests. This park is home to rare species and offers stunning landscapes for wildlife photography, with endemic bird species and dramatic scenery such as World’s End — a cliff that offers incredible photo opportunities. | Sri Lanka Whistling Thrush, Sri Lanka Bush Warbler, Dull Blue Flycatcher, Yellow-eared Bulbul. |
| Kitulgala Forest Reserve (Makandawa Forest Reserve) | Southwest Sri Lanka, 22km east of Avissawella, 14km southeast of Yatiyanthota | Lowland rainforest, transitioning to higher elevations, near the Kelani River | Anytime of the year Kitulgala is a beautiful secondary rainforest that protects the Kelani River’s catchment area. It is home to various waterfalls, including Makulu Ella and Lenakiri Ella, which make for perfect photography spots. The reserve is rich in endemic birds and other wildlife, making it an excellent destination for nature enthusiasts and photographers. | Sri Lanka Blue Magpie, Sri Lanka Jungle Fowl, Sri Lanka Wood Pigeon, Serendib Scops Owl, Chestnut-backed Owlet. |
These reserves and parks offer photographers a chance to capture Sri Lanka’s incredible biodiversity in diverse habitats, from rainforests and grasslands to cloud forests and wetlands. Each location provides unique opportunities for shooting rare and endemic wildlife, and exploring the natural beauty of this island nation.