Kalametiya Bird Watching & Ecotourism
Kalametiya Bird Watching & Ecotourism
Kalametiya Bird Watching & Ecotourism
5
5:30 AM - 7:00 PM
Monday
5:30 AM - 7:00 PM
Tuesday
5:30 AM - 7:00 PM
Wednesday
5:30 AM - 7:00 PM
Thursday
5:30 AM - 7:00 PM
Friday
5:30 AM - 7:00 PM
Saturday
5:30 AM - 7:00 PM
Sunday
5:30 AM - 7:00 PM
About
Kalametiya is a coastal wetland area that has an especially rich bio-diversity and is situated on the picturesque southeastern coast of sri Lanka. In the year 2008, Mr. KTH Gayan Geeth started a first Eco-friendly bird watching boat tour in Kalametiya Birds Sanctuary. Our love of the great outdoors and many years of experience has enabled us to develop some of the most exiting adventure and wildlife trips.
Suggested duration
2-3 hours
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Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
Popular mentions
5.0
138 reviews
Excellent
125
Very good
12
Average
0
Poor
1
Terrible
0
sodini A
Kandy, Sri Lanka4 contributions
Apr 2023
This is a hidden gem with many bird varieties and spectacular views. Both Pasindu and the boatman were knowledgeable and were good at spotting birds. Their genuine gestures of hospitality touched all our hearts.
Gayan practices ecotourism here in ethical and sustainable way. He does not fill the boat with many people unlike some other boats. We saw one as same size as our boat, carrying nearly 20 people. Pasindu was talking quietly and the boat was rowing very slowly, not to disturb the wildlife.
We saw about 25 bird species including some less common species like stork-billed kingfisher (Sri Lanka's largest kingfisher), pied king fisher, swap hen, peasant-tailed jacana, Brahminy kite, indian darter and purple heron.
The price for the 2.5 hour trip was affordable and worth the trip.
Gayan practices ecotourism here in ethical and sustainable way. He does not fill the boat with many people unlike some other boats. We saw one as same size as our boat, carrying nearly 20 people. Pasindu was talking quietly and the boat was rowing very slowly, not to disturb the wildlife.
We saw about 25 bird species including some less common species like stork-billed kingfisher (Sri Lanka's largest kingfisher), pied king fisher, swap hen, peasant-tailed jacana, Brahminy kite, indian darter and purple heron.
The price for the 2.5 hour trip was affordable and worth the trip.
Written April 11, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dominique P
5 contributions
Mar 2023
Our trip was a spontaneous decision, suggested by our Tuk Tuk driver in Tangalle and we were so glad he did as this is a very special experience and one of the most enjoyable things we did while on holiday in Sri Lanka. We boarded our personal punt/pole boat, and were greeted by Pasindu, our friendly bird guide, and Gayan, our skilful pole driver for a 2 hour adventure gliding along the glassy water of Kalametiya Lagoon. The atmosphere was calm and peaceful, and Pasindu gave us both a pair of excellent binoculars to spot the birds. We saw Purple Herons, Indian Darters, White Egrets, Brahman Kyte, Pheasant-Tailed Jacana, Pied Kingfisher and red-wattled Lapwing. In total, 27 species of birds, some of which are migratory and others that are endemic. We are new to bird watching and Pasindu was very skilled at spotting birds we would have missed. He was also really knowledgeable and spoke English very well, showing us a Sri Lankan bird guide book with more info when desired. Bird watching aside, it was just a really nice atmosphere being out on that water as the day drew to a close. The sunset on the day we visited was average but we still enjoyed the light and shade as well as Pasindu's company. Sunrise is also an option which would be worth doing. There are other things to see on the lagoon if you're not into bird watching, like crocodiles!. Tarzan fans might enjoy it! Great value for money.
Written March 29, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
maud l
13 contributions
Oct 2021 • Solo
It is in the early morning that Gayan takes you into the wonderful world of the lagoon.
Without a sound you glide on the water aboard his boat.
Still silently, Gayan beckons you to pick up the binoculars to start birding.
As the sun gently warms your back, as you smell the morning scent, your eyes discover a life you never suspected
Large, small, black and white, colorful, alone or in groups, hundreds of birds lead their lives among frogs running on the water.
Gayan knows them all.
While you observe an amazingly colored Kingfisher, Gayan prepares a snack for you and offers you a King coconut before stopping on a rock to gain height and observe the unique world of the lagoon.
Slowly, silently, to take advantage of every moment, return to dry land with the feeling of having lived a magical moment.
Gayan, thank you.
Without a sound you glide on the water aboard his boat.
Still silently, Gayan beckons you to pick up the binoculars to start birding.
As the sun gently warms your back, as you smell the morning scent, your eyes discover a life you never suspected
Large, small, black and white, colorful, alone or in groups, hundreds of birds lead their lives among frogs running on the water.
Gayan knows them all.
While you observe an amazingly colored Kingfisher, Gayan prepares a snack for you and offers you a King coconut before stopping on a rock to gain height and observe the unique world of the lagoon.
Slowly, silently, to take advantage of every moment, return to dry land with the feeling of having lived a magical moment.
Gayan, thank you.
Written October 24, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Nataliya N
1 contribution
Jan 2023
I had the most amazing time at the bird sanctuary in Sri Lanka! It's an absolute paradise for bird lovers like me. The park is packed with different species of birds, from stunning parrots to impressive eagles, all in their natural habitats.
The sanctuary's focus on conservation and education is inspiring. The staff are incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about the birds, which made the experience even more special. The park is designed so that you can get up close and personal with the birds without disturbing their natural habitats.
If you love nature and wildlife, this sanctuary is a must-visit destination. The park is beautifully designed, with plenty of walking paths and observation areas. You'll feel like you're in a bird-watching dreamland! I highly recommend this bird sanctuary to anyone who wants to experience the wonder and beauty of Sri Lanka's birdlife.
The sanctuary's focus on conservation and education is inspiring. The staff are incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about the birds, which made the experience even more special. The park is designed so that you can get up close and personal with the birds without disturbing their natural habitats.
If you love nature and wildlife, this sanctuary is a must-visit destination. The park is beautifully designed, with plenty of walking paths and observation areas. You'll feel like you're in a bird-watching dreamland! I highly recommend this bird sanctuary to anyone who wants to experience the wonder and beauty of Sri Lanka's birdlife.
Written March 18, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Jinashri S
Colombo, Sri Lanka140 contributions
Dec 2022 • Family
A unique experience that showcased the true beauty of Sri Lanka and its bio diversity. Kalametiya bird sanctuary hosts many birds (around 150 species we learnt, and 54 of them migratory). It also is a place to relax, feel calm and be one with nature. Gayan and his guides are very friendly and kind to the nature. Their tours are done very sustainably on a raft so the birds didn’t get startled when we approached them.
Kalmetiya is a lagoon. So the water levels are dependent on the tide. Tours happen twice a day early morning and afternoon. We chose the morning as that captures the highest bird activity.
We were asked to come sharp at 6 am but got there 30 mins late. Wish we hadn’t as the water level was already receding, which meant it was harder for Gayan’s team to move the raft in some places on the way back. Being late also meant that towards the latter part of the tour the birds had already flown off from the lagoon. Nevertheless we saw many birds, two baby crocs sunning themselves on rocks, a monitor lizard on a tree (never knew they climbed trees) several monkeys and a buffalo and its calf in the grassy plains having escaped from being herded the night before. The florae in the area were equally fascinating ! The highlight of the tour was climbing a rock on the bank which gave a breathtaking panoramic view of the lagoon!
We would recommend this tour very highly to nature lovers, bird watchers and wildlife photographers.
Kalmetiya is a lagoon. So the water levels are dependent on the tide. Tours happen twice a day early morning and afternoon. We chose the morning as that captures the highest bird activity.
We were asked to come sharp at 6 am but got there 30 mins late. Wish we hadn’t as the water level was already receding, which meant it was harder for Gayan’s team to move the raft in some places on the way back. Being late also meant that towards the latter part of the tour the birds had already flown off from the lagoon. Nevertheless we saw many birds, two baby crocs sunning themselves on rocks, a monitor lizard on a tree (never knew they climbed trees) several monkeys and a buffalo and its calf in the grassy plains having escaped from being herded the night before. The florae in the area were equally fascinating ! The highlight of the tour was climbing a rock on the bank which gave a breathtaking panoramic view of the lagoon!
We would recommend this tour very highly to nature lovers, bird watchers and wildlife photographers.
Written December 30, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
julia s
Birmingham, UK37 contributions
Jan 2022 • Couples
We highly recommend Gayan at KalametiyaBirds.com. we had the most gentle morning and then evening tour.
We loved the peace and tranquility of being silently punted around this huge (10square km of lagoon, mangrove and wetlands), magical lagoon.
The punts are very stable even for an older, weighty couple like us.
Each tour last 3-4 hours and Gayan, who speaks excellent English brings spare binoculars, snacks and water for everyone. We would recommend the sun rise and the sunset tours. His number is 0094 (0)777 060920.
We loved the peace and tranquility of being silently punted around this huge (10square km of lagoon, mangrove and wetlands), magical lagoon.
The punts are very stable even for an older, weighty couple like us.
Each tour last 3-4 hours and Gayan, who speaks excellent English brings spare binoculars, snacks and water for everyone. We would recommend the sun rise and the sunset tours. His number is 0094 (0)777 060920.
Written January 29, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Jardhu
UK15 contributions
Feb 2023
Gayan & is team were kind, welcoming, friendly, professional (his binoculars were excellent) & knowledgeable. We were rewarded by the early morning start with a large variety of birds. We even saw a very rare Black Capped Kingfisher the sighting of which invited healthy excitement from our guide, which was great to witness. The ride was comfortable, peaceful & relaxing. I rate this as a highlight of our stay in this area. Highly recommended!!
Written March 2, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Joanne L
6 contributions
Feb 2023 • Couples
It was the high light of our trip. We were punted silently around and watched the sun rise and the bird life was incredible. Our guide Chamila was excellent and so knowledgable considerate and kind and showed us a phenomenal array of birds plus a giant squirrel, monkeys a hare, an enormous water monitor lizard and mongoose. We saw a fish eagle, 3 different types of king fishers, 3 different species of bee eaters many herons and so many other birds. On top of this the best part was the serenity and peace of the whole trip.
We stayed in the exclent taragala chalets which is the best location for doing the early morning tour and actually looks out across the bird sanctuary.
We stayed in the exclent taragala chalets which is the best location for doing the early morning tour and actually looks out across the bird sanctuary.
Written February 11, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Ange
18 contributions
Mar 2023 • Friends
This was a well organised and informative tour of the mangrove areas. The guide and boatman were delightful and knew exactly where to go. We saw and recognised over 40 different species of birds, not to mention a giant squirrel, black faced monkeys and a 3 metre crocodile who displayed brilliantly for us. A fantastic recommendation.
Written March 28, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Tom B
France1 contribution
Aug 2021
I stayed 2 weeks in Kalametiya, going almost twice a day in the lagoon with Mr. Gayan (the local boat guide) and living in his house. It was a unique experience, for both the calmness of the lagoon and the birding part (Kalametiya is home to almost two hundred different bird species), on boats that felt like we were sliding on water. Mr. Gayan is a really cool guy who made all those visits enjoyable, entertaining and interesting thanks to his impressive experience in birding.
Don't hesitate one second to visit, at least once, this site with him!!
Don't hesitate one second to visit, at least once, this site with him!!
Written September 6, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Kalametiya Bird Watching & Ecotourism - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go
Frequently Asked Questions about Kalametiya Bird Watching & Ecotourism
- Kalametiya Bird Watching & Ecotourism is open:
- Sun - Sat 5:30 AM - 7:00 PM
- We recommend booking Kalametiya Bird Watching & Ecotourism tours ahead of time to secure your spot. If you book with Tripadvisor, you can cancel up to 24 hours before your tour starts for a full refund. See all 3 Kalametiya Bird Watching & Ecotourism tours on Tripadvisor
- Hotels near Kalametiya Bird Watching & Ecotourism:
- (0.13 mi) Taragala Place
- (0.51 mi) Turtle Bay
- (0.20 mi) Kiula resort
- (0.45 mi) Ceu Ceylon
- (0.48 mi) Villa Blu
- Restaurants near Kalametiya Bird Watching & Ecotourism:
- (0.55 mi) Upoint - Kalametiya
- (0.44 mi) My Son Restaurant
- (0.51 mi) Turtle Bay Restaurant
- (0.53 mi) Turtle Bay Restaurant
- (3.83 mi) Priyamoon Cafe and SeaFood Restaurant