From Kandy: Bird Watching Tour to Udawatte Kele Sanctuary

Set out on a captivating bird watching adventure from Kandy to the Udawatte Kele Sanctuary. This 103-hectare haven teeming with diverse wildlife and historical significance promises an unforgettable experience. Priced at $55 per person, the 5-hour tour includes early morning pickup, expert-guided trekking, and visits to key sites from the Kandyan Kingdom. Witness the serenity of nature as you spot endemic and migratory birds, all while respecting the sanctuary’s eco-tourism values. Reserve now to uncover the hidden gems that await.

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Key Points

Enjoy a 5-hour bird watching experience at the Udawatte Kele Sanctuary near Kandy, with transportation, entrance fees, and refreshments included.
Explore the rich biodiversity and historical sites of the 103-hectare sanctuary, including the Senkada Cave and ruins from the Kandyan Kingdom.
Depart at 6 AM from Kandy hotels and return by 11:30 AM, with ample time to spot endemic and migratory birds during the trekking activity.
Essential items to bring include binoculars, a charged smartphone, and comfortable shoes, as the tour may not be suitable for individuals with mobility impairments.
Enjoy a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option for added convenience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Details

The tour offers a bird watching experience at the Udawatte Kele Sanctuary, located just outside of Kandy.

Immerse in a bird-watching adventure at the Udawatte Kele Sanctuary, a natural haven near the vibrant city of Kandy.

It’s priced from $55 per person and lasts 5 hours, with an early 6 AM pickup from Kandy hotels.

The tour includes transportation by tuk-tuk, entrance fees, fuel, driver charges, parking, refreshments, and taxes.

Visitors can freely cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The tour also offers a reserve now, pay later option.

Highlights include trekking through the 103-hectare sanctuary, visiting historical sites, and exploring the Senkada Cave.

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Itinerary Highlights

At 6:00 am, guests get picked up from their Kandy hotels to embark on the bird watching tour.

By 6:45 am, they arrive at the 103-hectare Udawatte Kele Sanctuary to trek and observe the diverse plant species and abundant birdlife.

The tour explores significant locations from the Kandyan Kingdom, including Lady Hortons Road, Royal Pond, Lovers Walk, and Marble Seat.

At Senkada Cave, guests visit the hermit’s dwelling and observe wildlife.

The tour returns to Kandy by 11:30 am, concluding the 5-hour excursion.

Exploring Udawatte Kele Sanctuary

Situated within the heart of Kandy, the 103-hectare Udawatte Kele Sanctuary welcomes visitors to explore its rich biodiversity and historical significance. As a former royal woodland, the sanctuary now provides a haven for diverse plant species, mammals, reptiles, and a rich array of birdlife. Visitors can trek through the sanctuary, spotting endemic and migratory birds, and uncover the remnants of the Kandyan Kingdom, including the Lady Hortons Road, Royal Pond, Lovers Walk, and Marble Seat. The Senkada Cave, a hermit’s dwelling, offers a glimpse into the sanctuary’s wildlife.

| Feature | Details |

| — | — |

| Flora | Diverse plant species |

| Fauna | Mammals, reptiles, abundant birdlife |

| History | Remnants of Kandyan Kingdom |

| Highlights | Lady Hortons Road, Royal Pond, Lovers Walk, Marble Seat, Senkada Cave |

| Operating Hours | 6 am to 5 pm daily |

Discovering Historical Sites

What historical sites await visitors as they explore the Udawatte Kele Sanctuary? The tour includes stops at significant locations from the Kandyan Kingdom, such as Lady Hortons Road, Royal Pond, Lovers Walk, and Marble Seat.

These sites offer a glimpse into the sanctuary’s rich history, providing insight into the area’s importance during the Kandyan era. Visitors can wander the pathways and ruins, imagining the grandeur of the past.

The tour also includes a visit to the Senkada Cave, the former hermit’s dwelling, where visitors can observe the local wildlife. These historical highlights add depth to the bird-watching experience.

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Senkada Cave Visit

One highlight of the bird-watching tour is the visit to the Senkada Cave, the former dwelling of a hermit.

Tucked away in the sanctuary, the cave offers a glimpse into the region’s spiritual history. Visitors can observe the rock formations and explore the simple dwelling, imagining the solitary life of the hermit who once resided there.

The cave is also home to various wildlife, providing an opportunity to spot additional species during the tour.

Visitors may spot diverse wildlife species within the Senkada Cave during the bird-watching tour.

This unique stop adds cultural and environmental depth to the overall bird-watching experience in Udawatte Kele Sanctuary.

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Pickup and Drop-off Locations

The tour offers pickup and drop-off locations in Kandy or Peradeniya, providing convenience for participants.

Guests can be picked up from their Kandy hotel or the Peradeniya area. At the end of the tour, they’ll be dropped off at either their original pickup location or a different destination in Kandy or Peradeniya, as preferred.

This flexibility allows travelers to seamlessly integrate the bird watching experience into their Kandy itinerary.

The tour’s pickup and drop-off options cater to the needs of individual travelers, ensuring a hassle-free start and end to their nature exploration.

Preparation and Packing

To ensure a successful and comfortable bird watching experience, participants are advised to bring along a few essential items.

Binoculars are a must-have for spotting and observing the diverse avian species found in the sanctuary. A charged smartphone can be useful for capturing photos and identifying birds using mobile apps. Comfortable, sturdy shoes are recommended for the moderate trekking involved.

Participants should also refrain from bringing alcohol or drugs, as these aren’t permitted within the sanctuary grounds. By packing the right gear, visitors can fully enjoy the natural splendor of Udawatte Kele.

Important Considerations

Although the tour provides a comprehensive experience, there are a few important considerations to keep in mind.

First, transfers may vary in duration due to unpredictable traffic conditions, so it’s essential to plan accordingly.

Transfers may vary in duration due to unpredictable traffic conditions, so it’s essential to plan accordingly.

Second, the tour isn’t suitable for individuals with mobility impairments, as the sanctuary involves trekking and uneven terrain.

Finally, alcohol and drugs are strictly prohibited, as the sanctuary is an eco-tourism site that requires respectful behavior.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks to the Sanctuary?

Yes, visitors can bring their own food and drinks to the sanctuary. However, it’s encouraged to avoid consuming alcohol and adhere to the sanctuary’s rules to preserve the natural environment.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

There are no age restrictions for the bird watching tour. The tour is open to participants of all ages, though it may not be suitable for individuals with mobility impairments. Children are welcome to join the private group tour.

What Should I Do in Case of an Emergency During the Tour?

In case of an emergency, participants should immediately notify the tour guide. The guide is trained to handle medical situations and will contact emergency services if needed. Participants should remain calm and follow the guide’s instructions carefully.

Is Photography Allowed in the Sanctuary?

Photography is allowed in the Udawatte Kele Sanctuary, but visitors are advised to follow park regulations and be respectful of the wildlife and environment. Tripods may be restricted in certain areas to minimize disturbance.

Can I Extend the Tour Duration if I Want to Explore More?

Yes, you can extend the tour duration if you’d like to explore more. The tour operator offers flexible arrangements, and you can customize the itinerary to suit your interests and pace for an additional fee.

The Sum Up

The Udawatte Kele Sanctuary bird watching tour from Kandy promises an enriching exploration of diverse wildlife and historical sites. Travelers can expect an expert-guided trek through lush landscapes, opportunities to spot endemic and migratory birds, and visits to key landmarks from the Kandyan Kingdom. With early morning pickup and eco-tourism values in mind, this 5-hour experience offers an unforgettable adventure in nature.