Udawatte Kele:Birdwatching and Nature Trekking Experience

Nestled in the heart of Sri Lanka’s cultural capital, Udawatte Kele offers a captivating blend of natural wonders and rich heritage. This expansive sanctuary, spanning 103 hectares, beckons adventurous souls seeking to enjoy the vibrant tapestry of birdlife and lush trails. Whether you’re a seasoned nature enthusiast or a curious explorer, the Udawatte Kele experience promises to enchant and inspire, transporting you on a journey of discovery that unveils the true essence of this vital ecological haven. With expert guidance and a promise of unforgettable moments, the stage is set for an adventure that will leave a lasting impression.

Good To Know

• Udawatte Kele Sanctuary offers a full-day birdwatching and nature trekking experience priced at $75 per person, including transportation and an experienced naturalist guide.
• The sanctuary spans 103 hectares and is home to approximately 80 bird species, as well as three Buddhist forest monasteries and serves as a vital water catchment area.
• The guided nature trek lasts 4.25 hours and features opportunities for birdwatching and exploring lush trails, with pickup and drop-off provided from Peradeniya or Kandy accommodations.
• The tour includes refreshments, all entrance fees, and thoughtful inclusions to allow guests to fully enjoy the sanctuary’s rich biodiversity and natural features.
• Guests are advised to wear comfortable, breathable clothing and sturdy, closed-toe shoes, and arrive 15 minutes before the scheduled pickup time for a seamless experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview and Pricing

The Udawatte Kele Sanctuary birdwatching and nature trekking experience offers visitors a chance to enjoy Sri Lanka’s rich biodiversity.

Priced from $75.00 per person, this full-day adventure includes transportation via tuk tuk and an experienced naturalist guide to lead the exploration.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later, it’s an accessible and flexible way to discover the sanctuary’s treasures.

Spanning 103 hectares, the Udawatte Kele is home to approximately 80 bird species, three Buddhist forest monasteries, and a vital water catchment area, making it a prime eco-tourism destination.

Itinerary and Transportation

Participants begin their Udawatte Kele Sanctuary experience with a convenient pickup from their Peradeniya or Kandy accommodations. They’ll then enjoy a 30-minute tuk-tuk ride to the sanctuary’s entrance. Once there, visitors receive a 15-minute safety briefing before embarking on their guided 4.25-hour nature trek.

Event	Duration
Safety Briefing	15 minutes
Guided Tour	4.25 hours
Transportation (each way)	30 minutes
Total Duration	5 hours

The knowledgeable guide leads the group through the sanctuary’s diverse ecosystem, pointing out the abundant birdlife and other natural wonders. After the trek, tuk-tuks return participants to their original pickup locations.

Sanctuary Highlights

Nestled to the north of Kandy Lake, the 103-hectare Udawatta Kele Sanctuary stands as a prime eco-tourism destination.

This vibrant sanctuary boasts a remarkable biodiversity, home to approximately 80 bird species. Visitors can enjoy the sanctuary’s rich natural heritage, exploring three Buddhist forest monasteries and three cave dwellings.

Notably, the sanctuary serves as a vital water catchment area for the nearby city of Kandy, underscoring its ecological significance.

Whether birdwatching or trekking through the lush trails, the Udawatta Kele Sanctuary offers a unique opportunity to connect with the region’s remarkable natural wonders.

Inclusions

This experience encompasses a variety of inclusions to ensure a well-rounded and enriching adventure.

Visitors can enjoy convenient hotel pickup and drop-off by tuk-tuk, ensuring a seamless start and end to their day. An experienced naturalist guide will lead the way, sharing their expertise on the sanctuary’s diverse flora and fauna.

Refreshments with energy-boosting snacks are provided, and visitors can stay hydrated with complimentary bottled water. All entrance fees are covered, allowing guests to fully enjoy the sanctuary’s natural wonders.

With these thoughtful inclusions, visitors can focus on soaking in the beauty of Udawatte Kele without worry.

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Preparation and Important Information

Wearing comfortable attire is recommended for this immersive experience. Guests should arrive 15 minutes before the scheduled pickup time, ready in the hotel lobby. Roundtrip transportation from most centrally located Kandy hotels is available.

Preparing for the adventure, visitors should keep a few key points in mind:

1. Dress in lightweight, breathable clothing to stay cool and comfortable during the guided tour.

2. Wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes suitable for light hiking and walking on uneven terrain.

3. Bring insect repellent and sunscreen to protect against the elements.

Gratuity for the experienced naturalist guide is left to individual discretion.

Pickup and Drop-off Locations

The experience begins with convenient pickup and drop-off locations. Visitors are picked up from their hotels in Peradeniya or Kandy by a tuk-tuk, which takes just 30 minutes to reach the Udawatte Kele Sanctuary.

This eco-friendly transportation option not only reduces the carbon footprint but also allows participants to soak in the scenic views along the way.

At the end of the tour, the tuk-tuk returns guests to their original pickup points, ensuring a seamless and hassle-free experience.

With these carefully planned logistics, travelers can focus on seeing the sanctuary’s natural wonders without worrying about transportation.

Biodiversity and Features

Nestled within the verdant expanse of the Udawatta Kele Sanctuary, visitors are immersed in a vibrant tapestry of biodiversity. This protected forest teems with approximately 80 bird species, each a captivating piece of the sanctuary’s rich natural heritage.

Highlights include:

1. Glimpsing the resplendent blue plumage of the Sri Lanka Blue Magpie.
2. Observing the graceful flight of the endangered Sri Lanka Woodpigeon.
3. Listening to the melodious calls of the endemic Yellow-fronted Barbet.

Beyond the avian wonders, the sanctuary also safeguards three ancient Buddhist forest monasteries and three serene cave dwellings, underscoring its cultural and historical significance.

Plus, the sanctuary serves as a vital water catchment area for the nearby city of Kandy, underscoring its ecological importance.

Reservation and Cancellation

Reserving a spot for this birdwatching and nature trekking experience is a straightforward process.

Guests can book their tour with no upfront payment, simply reserving their place and paying later.

What’s more, there’s free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance, allowing for full refunds.

This flexible policy ensures visitors can easily plan their trip without worry.

With quick transportation via tuk tuk from Peradeniya or Kandy, getting to the sanctuary is simple.

Guests need only be ready in their hotel lobby 15 minutes before the scheduled pickup time to embark on this immersive nature excursion.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are There Any Restroom Facilities Available at the Sanctuary?

Yes, there are restroom facilities available at the Udawatte Kele Sanctuary for visitors. These basic amenities provide a convenient spot to refresh oneself during the nature trekking experience.

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

Yes, visitors are welcome to bring their own food and drinks into the sanctuary. This allows them to enjoy a picnic-style experience amidst the natural surroundings while exploring the diverse wildlife and landscapes of the protected area.

Is There a Guided Tour Available for Non-English Speaking Visitors?

Yes, guided tours are available for non-English speaking visitors. The tour provider offers experienced naturalist guides who can accommodate various language preferences, ensuring a personalized and informative experience for all guests.

What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Activity?

The maximum group size for this activity is not specified. However, the tour is conducted with an experienced naturalist guide, ensuring a personalized and engaging experience for all participants, regardless of group size.

Are There Any Age Restrictions or Requirements for Children?

There are no age restrictions for this activity. Children are welcome to join, though parental supervision is recommended for younger participants to ensure their safety and enjoyment throughout the nature trekking experience.

The Sum Up

Enjoy the captivating beauty and rich biodiversity of Udawatte Kele. Set out on a guided birdwatching and nature trekking adventure, exploring lush trails and ancient monasteries. Discover around 80 bird species and learn about this vital sanctuary’s wonders, all while enjoying a scenic tuk-tuk ride and refreshing snacks. Don’t miss this opportunity to experience Sri Lanka’s natural wonder for just $75 per person.

You can check availability for your dates here: