Explore Kerala on a birding tour through one of India’s richest regions for Western Ghats Endmic Birds. Kerala has over 25 endemic species of birds and offers diverse birding opportunities from the seashore and coastal lowlands through the rolling midlands to high-altitude montane forests. The region’s spectacular landscapes and forest habitats provide exceptional photography opportunities, while generally accessible terrain makes birding enjoyable for all ages and fitness levels.
Kerala has recorded over 500 bird species; this birding tour explores a remarkable range of habitats to maximise bird diversity. Beginning in the lowland forests of Thattekkad, we venture into the tropical evergreen and moist deciduous forests of Periyar, followed by the eastern plains of the Western Ghats in Tamil Nadu, offering excellent opportunities to search for range-restricted species. The birding concludes in Munnar, where high-altitude montane forest ecosystems harbour specialized birds of the Western Ghats.
Key bird species to look out for include the White-bellied Sholakili, Nilgiri Sholakili, Nilgiri Laughingthrush, Palani Laughingthrush, Wayanad Laughingthrush, Nilgiri Thrush, Black-and-orange Flycatcher, Malabar Trogon, Grey-headed Bulbul, Malabar Parakeet and Malabar Flameback. Night birding highlights include species such as the Sri Lanka Frogmouth and Mottled Wood Owl.
Birding is conducted through early-morning guided walks, forest trails, and habitat drives, exploring diverse environments when bird activity is at its peak. Evening outings and dedicated night scouts provide further opportunities to discover elusive species, including nocturnal birds.
