Serendib Wings: A Sri Lankan Birdwatching Odyssey
13 Days | 12 Nights
Serendib Wings: A Sri Lankan Birdwatching Odyssey
Embark on Serendib Wings, a handcrafted birdwatching journey through the heart of Sri Lanka—designed by local wildlife specialists for birders of every kind, from seasoned twitchers to nature-loving explorers. Over 13 immersive days, traverse misty highlands, tropical rainforests, tranquil wetlands, and coastal sanctuaries as you spot some of the island’s 400+ bird species, including an extraordinary number of endemics.
From the peaceful Talangama Wetlands near Colombo to the untouched wilds of Wilpattu National Park, this tour offers a serene, crowd-free experience through Sri Lanka’s most biodiverse and lesser-visited habitats. Guided by expert ornithologists, you’ll search for rare gems like the Sri Lanka Whistling Thrush, Blue Magpie, Pied Thrush, and Greater Flamingo, while soaking in the country’s stunning landscapes—from cloud forests and tea estates to lotus-dotted lakes and ancient rainforests.
Optional Extensions:
Mannar Wetlands (Nov–Mar)
Spend three more days exploring the windswept shores and lagoons of Mannar and Vankalai Sanctuary. A hotspot for migratory birds, this area attracts more than 20,000 species during the season. Look for spoonbills, godwits, pintails, Northern Shovelers, and the rare Western Reef Egret.
Kumana National Park (Apr–Jul)
Add a coastal and jungle experience by heading to Kumana on the southeast coast. Between April and July, its shallow lagoons draw thousands of migratory waterfowl and waders. Even off-season, the solitude and natural beauty make this a memorable birding destination.
Tour Itenerary
Day 01 (Talangama Wetlands)
Begin your journey with a peaceful stay near Talangama Wetlands, just outside Colombo. This serene oasis is a haven for over 100 bird species including Black and Yellow Bitterns, Purple Swamphen, several types of Kingfishers, Purple Heron, and the elegant Pheasant-tailed Jacana. It’s the perfect gentle introduction to Sri Lanka’s diverse avifauna.
Day 02 - 03 (Knuckles Range, Central Highlands)
Travel inland towards the Knuckles Mountain Range, a rugged and lesser-trodden area surrounded by forest and misty peaks. This highland wilderness boasts over 130 species of birds, 17 of which are endemic. Keep your eyes peeled for the Black Eagle, colourful Barbets, Hill Mynas, Lorikeets, and a range of Kingfishers and Woodpeckers. Enjoy nature walks and mountain air as you immerse yourself in this biodiverse paradise.
Day 04 (Nuwara Eliya, Hill Country)
Head deeper into Sri Lanka’s tea-growing region and arrive in the charming highland town of Nuwara Eliya. Search for elusive highland species in Victoria Park and Gregory Lake, including the Kashmir Flycatcher, Pied Thrush, Indian Pitta, Indian Blue Robin, and numerous pipits and warblers. The cool climate offers a refreshing contrast as your birdwatching journey ascends.
Day 05 (Horton Plains National Park)
Start early for a trek through Horton Plains National Park, situated more than 2,100 meters above sea level. This mix of open grasslands and cloud forest is home to many rare species, including five endemics found only at this altitude: the Sri Lanka Whistling Thrush, Yellow-eared Bulbul, Dull-blue Flycatcher, Sri Lanka Woodpigeon, and the Sri Lanka Bush Warbler. Don’t miss the dramatic viewpoints at World’s End and Little World’s End.
Days 06 - 07 (Tissamaharama & Bundala Wetlands)
Descend from the hills to the lush lowlands of Tissamaharama, where lotus-strewn lakes and fertile wetlands are teeming with life. Bird highlights include Cinnamon and Yellow Bitterns, Stork-billed Kingfishers, Cotton Pygmy Goose, Night-Herons, and Jacanas. Rise early to explore Bundala National Park—a Ramsar-designated wetland famed for its diversity of water birds. Keep watch for Greater Flamingos, Painted Storks, Spoonbills, and a variety of migratory shorebirds such as curlews and sandpipers.
Day 08 - 09 (Sinharaja Rainforest)
Make your way to the island’s last surviving stretch of primary tropical rainforest—Sinharaja. Enveloped by thick vegetation and buzzing with life, this UNESCO Biosphere Reserve hosts 28 of Sri Lanka’s 33 endemic bird species, many of which form large, mixed-species flocks. Key sightings might include the Sri Lanka Blue Magpie, Ashy-headed Laughing Thrush, Red-faced Malkoha, and the Sri Lanka Crested Drongo. Butterflies and other forest life add even more colour to the experience.
Day 10 - 11 (Kitulgala Rainforest Region)
Head to Kitulgala, a rainforest and riverine landscape rich in biodiversity. Hike through the Makandawa Forest Reserve and listen for the calls of the endemic Green-billed Coucal, Chestnut-backed Owlet, Red-faced Malkoha, and the melodious calls of Barbets and Babblers. The region is also excellent for spotting lowland forest species and enjoying the natural beauty of waterfalls and jungle trails.
Day 12 - 13 (Wilpattu National Park)
Finish your adventure in the peaceful and expansive Wilpattu National Park, known for its tranquil vibe and array of wildlife. It’s home to a broad variety of water and forest birds including Whistling Teals, Egrets, Spoonbills, Ibis, Cormorants, and Junglefowl. Relax into the stillness of the park, where birdwatching becomes a meditative experience among lakes, forests, and wild scrubland.
What's Included:
Accommodation: Shared double/twin room for the duration of the tour
Transportation: Chauffeur-guide and vehicle provided throughout the tour (including leisure days)
Transfers: Airport transfers (arrival and departure)
Support: Expert advice and assistance before and during the tour
Terms & Conditions:
Pricing: The price shown is a starting rate and may vary depending on travel dates, the number of travellers, and availability.
Room Sharing: The price is based on two people sharing a double/twin room.
For more detailed information, please refer to our Booking Conditions.