Discover the incredible birdlife of South India on this 15-day birding journey through the Western Ghats and the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. From the lush rainforests of Thattekad and Periyar to the high-altitude shola forests of Munnar and Ooty, and the dry deciduous woodlands of Chinnar and Masinagudi, this tour explores a remarkable variety of habitats that support some of India’s most sought-after birds. With opportunities to observe over 300 bird species, including many Western Ghats endemics, the itinerary also features guided nature walks, nocturnal wildlife excursions, and visits to renowned birding hotspots such as Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary. Along the way, enjoy the region’s rich landscapes, local culture, and iconic wildlife, making this an unforgettable birding experience for both keen birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.
Pickup from Kochi Airport and drive to Thattekad, one of the richest lowland forest birding destinations in South India and home to several Western Ghats endemics. Evening birding session around the lodge and nearby forest patches.
Speciality of the Area:
Thattekad Bird Sanctuary is famous for mixed-species flocks, endemic forest birds, hornbills, and excellent night birding opportunities.
Target Birds:
Malabar Grey Hornbill, Sri Lanka Frogmouth, Malabar Trogon, White-bellied Treepie, Rufous Babbler, Indian Pitta, Brown-cheeked Fulvetta, Jungle Owlet, Heart-spotted Woodpecker.
Early morning birding inside Thattekad Bird Sanctuary and nearby forest trails. Night outing for nocturnal birds and mammals.
Speciality of the Area:
Dense evergreen and semi-evergreen forests support some of the best bird diversity in Kerala.
Target Birds:
Ceylon Bay Owl, Sri Lanka Frogmouth, Jerdon’s Nightjar, Oriental Dwarf Kingfisher, Malabar Parakeet, Grey-headed Bulbul, Black Baza, Crested Serpent Eagle.
Possible Nocturnal Wildlife:
Indian Giant Flying Squirrel, civets, porcupine, slender loris.
Early morning birding at Orulanthanni, an excellent forest patch known for endemic species and quieter birding trails. Evening search for nocturnal wildlife.
Speciality of the Area:
Excellent habitat for shy understorey birds and Western Ghats endemics.
Target Birds:
White-bellied Blue Flycatcher, Nilgiri Wood Pigeon, Crimson-backed Sunbird, Indian Scimitar Babbler, Malabar Whistling Thrush, Velvet-fronted Nuthatch, Asian Fairy Bluebird.
Possible Nocturnal Wildlife:
Brown Palm Civet, Indian Scops Owl, nightjars, flying squirrels.
Early morning drive to Periyar (Kumily). Enjoy a guided 2.5-hour nature walk inside Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary.
Speciality of the Area:
Periyar combines montane forest, grasslands, and reservoir habitats, making it one of the best wildlife reserves in the Western Ghats.
Target Birds:
Great Hornbill, Nilgiri Flycatcher, Nilgiri Langur area sightings, White-bellied Blue Robin, Black-and-orange Flycatcher, Mountain Imperial Pigeon, Crested Goshawk.
Possible Wildlife:
Elephant, Gaur, Sambar Deer, Malabar Giant Squirrel.
Drive toward Munnar through Tamil Nadu and Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary, focusing on dry-land and thorn forest species. Reach Munnar by noon. Evening birding around Munnar.
Speciality of the Area:
Chinnar offers a dramatic habitat change from wet forests to dry scrub and thorn forest, giving opportunities for completely different bird species.
Target Birds at Chinnar:
Yellow-throated Bulbul, Sirkeer Malkoha, Painted Spurfowl, Small Minivet, Indian Eagle Owl, Rufous Babbler, Blue-faced Malkoha.
Evening Birding around Munnar – Target Birds:
Nilgiri Pipit, Kerala Laughingthrush, Nilgiri Flycatcher, Black-and-orange Flycatcher, Hill Swallow.
