The Best Birdwatching Spots in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is a birder’s paradise, home to over 450 species of birds, including 34 endemics found nowhere else on Earth. With its varied habitats—from rainforests and wetlands to highland forests and coastal lagoons—the island offers top-tier birdwatching experiences year-round.

Whether you’re an avid ornithologist or a casual nature lover, here are the top birdwatching spots in Sri Lanka you shouldn't miss.

1. Sinharaja Forest Reserve

Location: Southern Sri Lanka (Sabaragamuwa & Southern Provinces)
Best Time to Visit: November to April
Key Species:

• Sri Lanka blue magpie
• Red-faced malkoha
• Sri Lanka junglefowl
• Green-billed coucal

Why It’s Special:
A UNESCO World Heritage Site and the country’s last major rainforest, Sinharaja offers one of the best chances to spot mixed-species feeding flocks. With high canopy walks and expert guides, this is an essential stop for spotting endemic birds.

2. Bundala National Park

Location: Southern Sri Lanka (near Hambantota)
Best Time to Visit: September to March (for migratory species)
Key Species:

• Greater flamingo (in flocks!)
• Eurasian spoonbill
• Black-winged stilt
• Indian stone-curlew

Why It’s Special:
A designated Ramsar wetland site, Bundala is Sri Lanka’s top coastal birding spot. Its mix of lagoons, salt pans, and scrub forests is ideal for both resident and migratory waterbirds.

3. Kumana National Park (Yala East)

Location: Eastern Sri Lanka (Ampara District)
Best Time to Visit: April to July (nesting season)
Key Species:

• Painted stork
• Eurasian spoonbill
• Sri Lanka grey hornbill
• Purple heron

Why It’s Special:
Famous for its bird nesting colonies, Kumana is a quieter alternative to Yala’s main park. It’s particularly rewarding during the breeding season when thousands of birds gather around the Kumana Villu lagoon.

4. Horton Plains National Park

Location: Central Highlands (Nuwara Eliya)
Best Time to Visit: December to April
Key Species:

• Sri Lanka whistling thrush
• Sri Lanka bush warbler
• Yellow-eared bulbul
• Dull-blue flycatcher

Why It’s Special:
At over 2,100 meters above sea level, Horton Plains is the best place to spot highland endemics. Early morning walks to World’s End are often filled with birdsong and rare sightings.

5. Anawilundawa Wetland Sanctuary

Location: Northwestern Sri Lanka (Puttalam District)
Best Time to Visit: October to April
Key Species:

• Black-crowned night heron
• Purple swamphen
• Indian cormorant
• Asian openbill

Why It’s Special:
One of Sri Lanka’s six Ramsar wetlands, this lesser-known sanctuary features man-made tanks and mangroves that attract a wide range of aquatic birds. It’s ideal for quiet, off-the-beaten-track birding.

6. Kitulgala Forest Reserve

Location: Western Sri Lanka (Kegalle District)
Best Time to Visit: November to April
Key Species:

• Chestnut-backed owlet
• Layard's parakeet
• Spot-winged thrush
• Sri Lanka hanging parrot

Why It’s Special:
Kitulgala offers excellent lowland rainforest birding and is also known for the filming of The Bridge on the River Kwai. It’s great for endemic species and also a hub for adventure activities.

7. Wilpattu National Park

Location: Northwestern Sri Lanka (near Anuradhapura)
Best Time to Visit: February to October
Key Species:

• Malabar pied hornbill
• Crested serpent eagle
• Indian pitta
• White-rumped shama

Why It’s Special:
While famous for its leopards, Wilpattu also shelters a variety of forest birds. The villus (natural lakes) attract wetland species, while the forest tracks are alive with birdcalls in the mornings.

Tips for Birdwatching in Sri Lanka

• Best Time: November to April (dry season and peak migratory time)
• Equipment: Binoculars, telephoto lens, field guidebook, notebook
• Guides: Hire local birding guides—they can identify calls and spot elusive species
• Clothing: Neutral colors, light long sleeves, and good hiking shoes
• Apps: Use Merlin Bird ID or eBird for checklists and audio identification

Want a tailored birdwatching itinerary in Sri Lanka? Partner with experts like Hi DMC for customized tours that include expert guides, private transport, and eco-friendly stays near top birding hotspots.

‍