Birdwatching from Habarana
Active
2h
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Make the journey to the historically significant Habarana Lake to do Bird-watching in Sri Lanka and greet the diverse avian life present in the area as you explore in search of rare birds. Catch glimpses of bright plumage amongst the greenery and try to identify them. Also get a chance to see some of the other wildlife.
Available options
Birdwatching from Habarana
What's included
Services of a Qualified, English Speaking Birding Guide/Naturalist
Private tour of 2 hours
Viewing by Monocular Bird Spotting Telescope (Adjusted and aimed by your guide)
Binoculars (Per person for maximum 2 PAX)
All taxes and service charges
Detailed itinerary
1
Now well past its prime, the Habarana Lake is not the grand tank it once was but the diminished water levels have since contributed to an eco-system inhabited by thirsty Elephants making visits to quench their thirst and a stunning variety of bird species. This has led the area to be a prime location for Birdwatching in Sri Lanka.
Your tour will start at 6.30 AM – 7.30 AM or 3.30 PM – 4.30 PM from an eco-lodge near the Habarana Junction (Exact details enclosed at booking confirmation).
Journey along the lake bank as you inspect the surrounding area in hope of catching glimpses of resident, migratory and endemic birds that reside among the trees or in the lake.
Your friendly bird watching guide will make it his mission to ensure that the most number of species are spotted in your exploration. Birds flirting far away from the naked eye can be easily viewed with the use of the binoculars provided to you or from the monocular bird spotting telescope that will be adjusted and aimed by your guide.
The area is widely considered to be a hotspot for bird watching in Sri Lanka as sightings of around 120 bird species have occurred during birdwatching in Habarana. Prominent sightings include the viewing of the Sri Lankan Grey Hornbill, Sri Lankan Green Pigeon, Coppersmith Barbet, Red Vented Bulbul, Indian Cormorant, Little Cormorant, Oriental Darter, Spotted Dove, White Bellied Sea Eagle, Comon Iora, Pheasant Tailed Jacana, Brahminy Kite, Small Minivet, Black Hooded Oriole, Grey Breasted Prinia, Crested Tree Swift and many more.
There are 9 endemic bird species to the area who are the Brown Capped Babbler, Black Capped Bulbul, Sri Lankan Jungle Fowl, Sri Lankan Green Pigeon, Sri Lankan Wood Shrike, Sri Lankan Swallow, Crimson Backed Flameback Woodpecker and Lesser Sri Lankan Flameback Woodpecker.
Your bird-watching tour in Habarana will last for 2 hours from your starting time. Upon completion you will be returning back to your starting point at the Eco-lodge, where you can safely return to your vehicle.
What's not included
Transportation to/from starting location (Eco-lodge near Habarana Junction)
Food or Beverages
Tips or portages
Any expenses of personal natures
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Starting location will be an eco-lodge near Habarana Junction, exact details of location and emergency contact person will be provided on booking confirmation.
Do state the desired starting time in the ‘Notes’ section during confirming your booking, the earlier the starting time, the greater the chances of bird spotting.
Be sure to bring your professional camera (if possible) along with its variety of lenses.
Wear soft, lightly colored clothing that blends with the nature.
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
About Anuradhapura
Anuradhapura is a major city in Sri Lanka, famous for its well-preserved ruins of an ancient Sri Lankan civilization. It is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city is a pilgrimage site for Buddhists and offers a rich cultural and historical experience.
Top Attractions
Sacred City of Anuradhapura
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Sacred City of Anuradhapura is home to ancient stupas, temples, and ruins that date back over 2,000 years.
Historical
Full day
Free
Ruwanwelisaya Dagoba
One of the tallest stupas in the world, this iconic structure is a significant pilgrimage site for Buddhists.
Religious
1-2 hours
Free
Sri Maha Bodhi
A sacred fig tree that is said to have been propagated from the original Bodhi tree under which Buddha attained enlightenment.
Religious
30 minutes to 1 hour
Free
Jethawanaramaya Dagoba
The tallest stupa in Anuradhapura, known for its impressive size and historical significance.
Historical
1 hour
Free
Isurumuniya Temple
A beautiful temple known for its rock carvings and serene atmosphere.
Religious
1-2 hours
Free
Must-Try Local Dishes
Kottu Roti
A popular Sri Lankan dish made with chopped roti, vegetables, and meat or seafood, cooked on a hot plate.
Dinner
Can be made vegetarian or vegan.
Hoppers
Bowl-shaped pancakes made from fermented rice flour and coconut milk, often served with eggs or sambal.
Breakfast
Vegetarian.
Rice and Curry
A staple Sri Lankan meal consisting of steamed rice served with a variety of curries.
Lunch/Dinner
Can be made vegetarian or vegan.
Lamprais
A Dutch-influenced dish consisting of rice, meat, and vegetables cooked in banana leaves.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains meat.
Popular Activities
Hiking in Mihintale
Exploring Ritigala Forest Monastery
Tea tasting
Visiting temples
Exploring ancient ruins
Attending religious ceremonies
Witnessing the Esala Perahera festival
Best Time to Visit
January to March
This is the best time to visit Anuradhapura as the weather is pleasant and dry, making it ideal for exploring the ancient ruins and enjoying outdoor activities.
28-32°C
82-90°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Sinhala, Tamil
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Moderately spoken
Currency
Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR)
Time Zone
UTC+5:30
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Anuradhapura is generally safe for travelers, but standard precautions should be taken to avoid petty theft and scams.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure.
- • Use reputable tour operators.
- • Be cautious of strangers offering unsolicited help.
Getting there
By air
- Colombo Bandaranaike International Airport • 200 km
By train
Anuradhapura Railway Station
By bus
Anuradhapura Bus Stand
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are the most common form of public transport and cover most areas of the city.
Taxis
Available • Apps: PickMe, Uber
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Sacred City
New Town
Tuktukaraya
Day trips
Mihintale
12 km • Half day
A sacred mountain site where Buddhism was first introduced to Sri Lanka, featuring ancient ruins and temples.
Ritigala Forest Monastery
30 km • Full day
A UNESCO-listed forest monastery with ancient ruins and a rich biodiversity.
Avukana Buddha Statue
50 km • Full day
A colossal Buddha statue carved out of a single rock, standing 40 feet tall.
Festivals
Esala Perahera • July/August (full moon day)
Poson Festival • June (full moon day)
Vesak Festival • April/May (full moon day)
Pro tips
- Visit the Sacred City early in the morning to avoid the heat and crowds.
- Hire a local guide for a more in-depth understanding of the historical sites.
- Try local street food for an authentic culinary experience.
- Respect the religious customs and traditions when visiting temples.
- Carry a water bottle and sunscreen to stay hydrated and protected from the sun.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
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