Shore Excursion to Colombo Wetland & Bird Watching by Car

Embark on an unforgettable journey as you explore the captivating wetlands of Colombo on a shore excursion tailored for avid bird-watchers. Over the course of four hours, you’ll venture into scenic spots like Diyasaru Park and Beddagana Wetland Park, guided by an English-speaking expert who’ll introduce you to a dazzling array of migratory birds and endemic species. Luxury car transportation ensures a comfortable experience, while cultural stops and shopping opportunities add depth to this nature-centric adventure. But the real thrill lies in enjoying the tranquil wetland environment and uncovering its hidden wonders.

Contents hide

1 Excursion Overview

2 Itinerary Highlights

3 Nature and Wildlife

4 Transportation and Inclusions

5 Participant Restrictions

6 Scenic Viewpoints

7 Shopping Opportunities

8 Cultural Experiences

9 Frequently Asked Questions

Key Points

This 4-hour excursion offers a guided tour to the Colombo Wetlands for birdwatching, with stops at Diyasaru Park and Beddagana Wetland Park.
The tour includes luxury car transportation with an English-speaking guide, and covers admission fees for the parks and other optional sites visited.
Participants can expect to see migratory birds, as well as endemic species like the Sri Lanka Kestrel and Spot-billed Pelican, along with diverse insects and mammals.
The excursion provides opportunities for scenic photography, shopping, and exploring Sri Lanka’s cultural heritage through visits to temples and a traditional gem mine.
The tour is not suitable for individuals with limited mobility or those over 70 years of age, due to the terrain and walking requirements.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Excursion Overview

This shore excursion to the Colombo Wetland offers travelers a chance to explore the scenic wetland and engage in bird watching.

The tour includes a 4-hour itinerary that begins and ends at the Passenger Terminal in the Port of Colombo. Priced at £94.55 per group (up to 2 participants), the excursion provides an English-speaking guide and transportation in a luxury car.

Visitors can expect to visit Diyasaru Park, Beddagana Wetland Park, Diyatha Uyana, a traditional gem mine, Gangaramaya Temple, and Sri Kailawasanatan Swami Temple.

The tour also allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Private group options are available for those seeking a more personalized experience.

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Itinerary Highlights

The excursion starts at the Passenger Terminal in the Port of Colombo, where participants can embark on their journey to explore the wetland and engage in birdwatching. The first stop is Diyasaru Park, where guests can enjoy scenic views and take photos. Next, they’ll visit the Beddagana Wetland Park, an optional site with more opportunities for wildlife observation. The tour then proceeds to Diyatha Uyana for a break, shopping, and sightseeing. Afterward, participants can opt to visit a traditional gem mine or the Gangaramaya Temple and Sri Kailawasanatan Swami Temple. The excursion culminates with a return to the Passenger Terminal.

Main Stops	Duration	Optional Fees
Diyasaru Park	40 minutes	–
Beddagana Wetland Park	40 minutes	✓
Diyatha Uyana	40 minutes	✓
Traditional Gem Mine	40 minutes	✓
Gangaramaya Temple	40 minutes	✓
Sri Kailawasanatan Swami Temple	40 minutes	✓

Nature and Wildlife

The wetland parks on this excursion are home to a variety of migratory birds that visit from August to April, as well as endemic species and diverse plant life. This vibrant ecosystem supports a rich biodiversity, including:

Migratory birds like waterfowl and waders that come to feed and breed
Endemic birds found only in Sri Lanka, like the Sri Lanka Kestrel and the Spot-billed Pelican
A variety of butterflies, dragonflies, and other insects
Mammals like the Indian Mongoose and the Grey Mongoose

These wetlands, part of the Diyawanna Oya flood plains Wildlife Sanctuary, offer visitors a chance to enjoy a thriving natural oasis just minutes from Colombo’s bustling city center.

Transportation and Inclusions

Luxury cars transport visitors on this excursion, with an English-speaking driver included to provide a personalized experience.

The driver ensures visitors are comfortably taken from the passenger terminal at the Port of Colombo to the various stops along the itinerary.

All admission fees to the parks and sites visited are covered, allowing guests to fully enjoy the natural wonders without additional costs.

Whether it’s the Diyasaru Park, Beddagana Wetland Park, or the Gangaramaya Temple, the transportation and inclusions make this shore excursion a hassle-free and enjoyable way to explore Colombo’s diverse wetlands and wildlife.

The private group option also provides flexibility for those seeking a more exclusive experience.

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Participant Restrictions

Certain individuals may not be able to fully participate in this shore excursion, as it’s not suitable for wheelchair users or those over 70 years of age.

While the excursion offers a wonderful opportunity to explore the Colombo wetlands and witness the diverse birdlife, the terrain and walking requirements may pose challenges for those with limited mobility or advanced age.

The tour operator has taken these factors into consideration to ensure the safety and comfort of all participants. Guests should carefully consider their physical abilities before booking this excursion.

The shore excursion may not be suitable for:

Wheelchair users
Individuals over 70 years of age
Those with limited mobility
Guests concerned about navigating uneven terrain

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Scenic Viewpoints

Along the shore excursion, guests will encounter several scenic viewpoints that showcase the natural beauty of the Colombo wetlands.

These viewpoints provide opportunities to admire the tranquil lakes, lush greenery, and diverse array of birdlife that inhabit the region.

At Diyasaru Park, visitors can pause for photos and soak in the serene atmosphere.

The Beddagana Wetland Park offers stunning vistas of the flood plains and a chance to observe endemic species.

During the break at Diyatha Uyana, guests can also enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.

These scenic stops allow participants to fully enjoy the natural wonders of the Colombo wetlands and appreciate the region’s ecological significance.

Shopping Opportunities

During the shore excursion, travelers have the opportunity to explore several shopping destinations. One such stop is the traditional gem mine, where guests can browse an array of locally sourced gemstones and jewelry.

Plus, the break at Diyatha Uyana provides time for sightseeing and browsing the diverse collection of shops and boutiques in the area.

The tour also includes optional visits to:

Gangaramaya Temple, where visitors can purchase religious artifacts and souvenirs
Sri Kailawasanatan Swami Temple, offering opportunities for photos and sightseeing
Various local shops and markets, showcasing handcrafted textiles, spices, and other Sri Lankan specialties
Artisanal stores featuring unique handicrafts, paintings, and other cultural treasures

Cultural Experiences

The shore excursion provides travelers with opportunities to enjoy Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage.

Visitors can explore iconic religious sites like the Gangaramaya Temple and the Sri Kailawasanatan Swami Temple, gaining insights into the country’s diverse spiritual traditions.

At the Gangaramaya Temple, they’ll witness the blend of Buddhist, Hindu, and colonial influences reflected in the temple’s intricate architecture and ornate decor.

The Sri Kailawasanatan Swami Temple, dedicated to the Hindu deity Shiva, offers a chance to observe the vibrant rituals and customs of the island’s Tamil community.

These cultural experiences allow guests to deepen their understanding of Sri Lanka’s multifaceted identity and the enduring traditions that shape its society.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Much Luggage Can I Bring on the Excursion?

The excursion does not have any specific luggage restrictions. Participants can bring the luggage they need for the day, but should keep it manageable as they’ll be getting in and out of the transportation.

Is There an Age Limit for Children Participating?

There is no age limit for children participating in this excursion. However, the activity may not be suitable for children under 5 years old, and those over 70 years old are not recommended to join due to the walking involved.

Can I Bring My Own Camera Equipment?

Participants are welcome to bring their own camera equipment for the excursion. However, it’s advised to bring lightweight, portable gear as the tour involves walking around various sites. The guide can provide recommendations on the best spots for photography.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Seniors or Students?

The tour doesn’t offer any discounts for seniors or students. However, the provider may consider providing a discount if you inquire directly with them about your specific situation.

Can I Request Specific Dietary Requirements During the Tour?

Specific dietary requirements can be accommodated during the tour. Travelers should inform the tour operator of any dietary needs in advance so appropriate arrangements can be made to ensure their comfort and satisfaction throughout the experience.