Home to an array of exotic bird species, the Sigiriya bird sanctuary is a hotspot for those keen on bird watching. Surrounded by green forests, water bodies and roads, a bird-watching tour in the Sigiriya sanctuary will be nothing short of a blissful experience.
Sigiriya Bird Sanctuary
Whether you are an enthusiastic bird watcher or someone who is keen on spotting some exotic bird species in their natural habitat, the Sigiriya rock fortress is the place to be. Recently recognized as a bird sanctuary, the stretch of land is made of 5,099 hectares of forest, water bodies and roads providing an excellent nesting ground for a host of endemic and migratory bird species.
Why Sigiriya sanctuary is ideal for bird watching
Whilst Sigiriya bird sanctuary resembles the Sinharaja rainforest in many ways, the lush greenery of the sanctuary is not as dense as in the Sinharaja forest, allowing for better views. Added to this, some of the bird species spotted in the Sigiriya dry zone forest cannot be seen elsewhere in the country, making it one of the most exceptional bird-watching spots in the country.
Rare bird species sighted in the sanctuary
Considered a UNESCO world heritage site, the sanctuary is home to a wide range of bird species. From raptors like Shaheen Falcon and Crested Serpent Eagles to rare bird species like Orange-breasted Green Pigeon and Green Imperial Pigeon, a guided tour of the sanctuary will offer you an opportunity to get up close with some exotic bird species you’ve never witnessed before.
Sigiriya Forest
Spreading over 5099 hectares and extending to the immediate surrounding of Sigiriya rock fortress, Sigiriya forest shelters more than 65 endemic, resident and migratory bird species. If you wish to stay at one of the best hotels in Dambulla, Sri Lanka the likes of spectacular Amaya Lake you can easily combine your bird-watching tour in Sigiriya with other popular attractions like Ritigala excursion, Dambulla cave temple, Kaludiya Pokuna and Anuradhapura.
