Birds watching
Sri Lanka is a birder’s paradise. A tropical island in the Indian Ocean situated 10 degrees north of the equator, boasting of diverse and favourable climatic conditions and natural habitats such as forests, scrublands, grasslands, wetlands, seas and agricultural lands. The country is home to 439 species of birds of which 236 are breeding residents, 203 migrants and the rest vagrants. For a country as small as Sri Lanka having 33 endemic species and 68 endemic subspecies of birds with a species endemism of 11% goes to demonstrate why Sri Lanka is one of the finest birding destinations in the world.
This includes endemics such as Fowls, Pigeons, Parrots, Parakeets, Malkoha, Coucal, Owl, Owlet, Hornbill, Barbet, Magpie, Bulbul, Warbler, Babbler, Thrush, White-eye, Mynah, Starling, Flycatcher, Flowerpecker, Pigeon, Barbet, Flameback, Woodshrike, Drongo and Swallow.
In addition there are close to 200 seasonal migratory birds both terrestrial and aquatic, moving away from the Northern winter travelling from as far as Siberia, Scandinavia and Western Europe, arriving around August /September and leaving around April/May. Since Sri Lanka is situated at the farthest southern point away from the south of India with no other landmass until the South Pole, the migrating birds end their long journey in Sri Lanka, making it a regular wintering ground. Some of the migrants include the Openbill, Ibis, Heron, Egrets, Pelicans, Comorant, Water-cock, Swamphen, Waterhen, Stilts, Duck and Grebe.
The main bird sanctuary in Sri Lanka is the Kumana National Park which is considered one of the most important nesting and breeding grounds in Sri Lanka.
WATER RAFTING
Sri Lanka also great location for water rafting, Kithulgala becomes one of top priority place for having thrilling experience. There are many great rapids on the river which can gain tremendous experience. Not even that Mahaweli River, Kalani River, Sudu River or Walawe River are other favorite sites of tourists for having great water rafting experience. Kithulagala has over 05 rapids which increase the thrilling blended amazing experience. This activity something never missed because it is truly amazing and make more tremendous holiday experience.
HIKING
Something should not missed because major places for Trekking. Knuckles mountain range an ideal location. Walking through narrow road which covered by mist or greenery surroundings pave a way to identify fauna flora. Sitting on a cocky surface for resting while having local spicy foods will added tremendous feelings for your holidays. Trekking through valleys or meadows brought more tranquility for visitors. Especially trekking Adam’s Peak one of great expedition to peep nature as well as unique travel experience. There are many locations for Hiking & Trekking with diverse of wide range.