Embark on a journey through Sri Lanka’s rich natural wonders with our “Flora & Fauna” experiences. From the nocturnal world of the elusive Grey Slender Loris to the majestic Blue Whales off Trincomalee’s coast, these adventures offer an intimate look at the island’s diverse wildlife. Explore the vibrant coral reefs of Pigeon Island, marvel at the avian paradise of Kalmateiya Bird Sanctuary, or witness the ancient ritual of sea turtles nesting on Rekawa beach. Whether it’s the rare creatures of Udawatta Kele Sanctuary or the breathtaking landscapes of the Royal Botanical Gardens, each experience is designed to immerse you in the unparalleled beauty of Sri Lanka’s natural heritage.
Take a chance to spot a Grey Slender Loris, a beautiful rare nocturnal primate found in Sri Lanka, India and South East Asia. Witness the elusive beauty of nocturnal wildlife, with a 90% success rate of spotting Grey Slender Loris at Back of Beyond, Pidurangala. Beginning at 7.30 pm, on a one and a half hour-long tour conducted by the resident naturalist, to spot the slow moving tree dwellers of the shrub forests. Afterwards you have the option to choose between a carefully curated Sri Lankan or Western set menu dinner prepared by an experienced chef.
Better known for its waves, Trincomalee is also one of the best places to catch a glimpse of these majestic whales. Blue Whales (the largest mammals ever known are residents off the shores of Trincomalee) and Sperm Whales (the largest predators on our planet and also the deepest diving whales travel in pods following the matriarchal system similar to elephants). Off the East coast of Sri Lanka, you can often encounter “super pods” containing 40 or more of these whales, along with large numbers of Spinner dolphins.
Declared a sanctuary in 1963, Pigeon Island was re-designated as a national park. A 30-minute boat ride to an island that consists of coral reefs that harbour many vertebrates and invertebrates. The park supports over 100 species of coral and 300 coral reef fishes recorded around the Trincomalee area. The location is also great to observe the juvenile and adult Black Tip Reef Shark as well as a variety of Turtles. The national park contains some of the best remaining coral reefs of Sri Lanka.
A true birder’s paradise, Sri Lanka is home to over 400 species. A wetland comprising of salty lagoons and mangrove swamps, the Kalmateiya Bird Sanctuary is one of the country’s oldest reserves, a spectacular setting for your boat tour. A hotspot for a wealth of migratory shorebirds, the sanctuary is home to over 150 species of birds including Indian reef herons, glossy ibises, Sri Lankan black-capped purple kingfishers and jungle fowl (a species endemic to the island). You can also spot Eurasian spoonbills, common snipes and black winged stilts, whilst the waters themselves provide a rich habitat for over 40 species of colourful fish.
Start exploring at the best time, between 7pm & 3am, when Sea Turtles come ashore to nest. A drive through dirt roads and paddy fields leads to the spectacular beach at Rekawa, a famous nesting site for five species of Turtle, namely the Green turtle, Loggerhead, Leatherback, Olive Ridley and Hawksbill. Sea Turtle nesting occurs throughout the year on Rekawa beach, with a distinct peak-nesting season from March to July.
Explore the Royal Botanical Garden with a botanist. The garden used to be Pleasure Garden for Sinhalese Royalty, later made a Botanical garden by the British in 1843. The supreme headquarters of Lord Mountbatten during World War 2, the 147 acres of gardens has over 4000 species including orchids, spices, medicinal plants and palm trees. The orchid collection is a main highlight, others include the Giant Bamboo of Burma, the century old giant Javan fig tree and the Cannonball tree planted by King George V and Queen Mary in 1901.
Udawattakele Sanctuary is a relatively lesser known forest reserve, sitting on a hill-ridge in the city of Kandy. With many secluded walking paths and trekking routes the sanctuary is famous for the abundance of plant life, especially lianas and shrubs. A myriad of wildlife including porcupines, toque monkeys, and wild boars. A large population of snakes and other reptiles are found here as well. Look out for the giant ‘Pus Wela’, a famous, ancient liana that has entwined its way across treetops and the forest floor, covering vast distances inside the forest.
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