Sri Lanka

Early travelers romantically named Sri Lanka ‘the teardrop of India.’ Just 270 miles long and 140 miles wide, this small island does indeed look like a tear that has fallen from the face of the subcontinent to become petrified in the Indian Ocean. Having, in reality, risen from the sea millions of years ago and subsequently subjected to much geological upheaval, Sri Lanka has developed into a magical land of mountains, gently undulating hills, open plains, and lush valleys. Running through these are countless rivers dotted with beautiful waterfalls, many hidden beneath a dense cloak of rainforest. For the birdwatcher, islands have the added attraction of endemic species that have evolved during centuries of isolation. Sri Lanka is no exception with upward of 34 unique birds, and we’ll endeavor to see them all. In addition, a large number of northern migrants winter on the island, joining many other resident species that are difficult or impossible to see on the usual birdwatching circuits of India. We should add that Sri Lanka has a rich cultural history that will surround us while we bird, and a famously hospitable people.