You will be picked up from Plantation Hotel or your hotel in Kitulgala and transferred by tuk-tuk to begin an unforgettable birdwatching experience at the Makandawa Forest Reserve, a biodiversity hotspot renowned for its rich endemic flora and fauna.
One of the highlights of visiting this forest reserve is the scenic boat ride across the river, adding a sense of adventure to your journey. The forest is home to many of Sri Lanka’s lowland endemic bird species, including the Green-billed Coucal, Chestnut-backed Owlet, Red-faced Malkoha, Sri Lanka Spot-winged Thrush, Grey Hornbill, Sri Lanka Spur Fowl, Ceylon Junglefowl, and Yellow-fronted Barbet.
As the tour progresses, you may also encounter fascinating mammal species such as the Grizzled Giant Squirrel, Layard’s Striped Squirrel, and the Purple-faced Leaf Monkey. The forest streams shelter endemic fish and numerous amphibians, while reptile species such as the Earless Lizard, Kangaroo Lizard, and Hump-nosed Lizard are frequently spotted among the foliage along the Kelani River.
At the end of your birdwatching adventure, you will return to Plantation Hotel to enjoy a delightful buffet lunch by the river.
After lunch, continue your exploration with a cycling tour to the historic Belilena Cave, offering a wonderful opportunity to experience the scenic landscapes and authentic village life of the region. Ride along narrow pathways through rubber plantations, lush jungle vegetation, and picturesque mountain views before reaching the cave, which is perched along a steep hillside near Kitulgala.
Inside the cave, you will discover its cool, damp interior, home to thousands of bats that flutter through the dim light of your torch. Colourful butterflies often gather around the entrance, creating a beautiful contrast to the cave’s dark depths. Archaeological excavations have revealed fossils believed to be approximately 32,000 years old, making this site an important prehistoric landmark.
Your cycling tour concludes back at Plantation Hotel, bringing a memorable day of nature, wildlife, and heritage to a close.
