Birdwatching in Kerala’s Premier Birding Destination
Experience one of the finest birdwatching tours in Kerala on this full-day birding excursion to Thattekkad (Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary). Located in the foothills of the Western Ghats, Thattekkad is renowned among birders worldwide for its remarkable diversity, excellent accessibility and impressive concentration of endemic birds.
Whether you are a dedicated birder, wildlife photographer or nature enthusiast, this Thattekkad Birding Day Tour from Kochi (or your preferred starting point) offers an opportunity to explore one of South India’s most rewarding birding locations with an experienced local bird guide.
Depending on season and weather conditions, birders can expect to record between 70 and 120 species during a full day of birding.
Why Bird in Thattekkad?
Often referred to as the “bird paradise of Kerala”, Thattekkad gained international recognition through the work of the legendary ornithologist Dr. Salim Ali, who described the area as one of the richest bird habitats in Peninsular India.
The region combines riverine forest, moist deciduous woodland, bamboo thickets, evergreen forest patches and forest-edge habitats, creating exceptional conditions for bird diversity.
For visitors interested in Western Ghats birding, Thattekkad offers one of the best opportunities to observe endemic birds without undertaking strenuous mountain treks.
Key advantages include:
- Easy access from Kochi International Airport
- Excellent year-round birding
- High concentration of Western Ghats endemic birds
- Suitable for both beginner and experienced birders
- Outstanding bird photography opportunities
- Possibility of observing over 100 species in a single day
- Expect 8–15 Western Ghats endemics
Western Ghats Endemic Bird Highlights
Thattekkad is one of the best locations in India for observing birds found only in the Western Ghats biodiversity hotspot.
Possible endemic species in Thattekad include:
- Malabar Grey Hornbill
- White-bellied Treepie
- Flame-throated Bulbul
- Malabar Parakeet
- Crimson-backed Sunbird
- Malabar Woodshrike
- Grey-headed Bulbul
- Nilgiri Flowerpecker
- Malabar Imperial Pigeon
- White-bellied Blue Flycatcher
- Grey-fronted Green Pigeon
- Sri Lanka Frogmouth (night extension)
- Malabar Flameback
Other Birding Highlights in Thattekad
In addition to endemic birds, Thattekkad supports a remarkable variety of rainforest and woodland species.
Potential sightings include:
- Malabar Trogon
- Blue-eared Kingfisher
- Heart-spotted Woodpecker
- Indian Pitta (seasonal)
- Asian Fairy-bluebird
- Orange Minivet
- Black Baza
- Crested Serpent Eagle
- Jungle Owlet
- Brown Hawk-Owl
- Greater Racket-tailed Drongo
- Vernal Hanging Parrot
- White-cheeked Barbet
Detailed Itinerary
05:45 – Departure from Kochi
Early departure allows us to reach the birding trails during the most productive period of the day when birds are actively feeding and vocalising.
07:00 – Morning Forest Birding Session
Upon arrival, we begin exploring the forest trails and woodland edges around Thattekkad.
The morning hours provide the best opportunities for observing mixed feeding flocks, hornbills, woodpeckers, flycatchers and other forest specialists.
Target species include:
Malabar Grey Hornbill, Vernal Hanging Parrot, Crimson Backed Sunbird, Southern Hill Myna, Malabar Parakeet, Flame-throated Bulbul, Malabar Woodshrike and Pygmy Woodpecker.
09:30 – Breakfast Break
A relaxed break to enjoy breakfast while reviewing the morning’s sightings and discussing target species for the remainder of the day.
10:00 – Riverine Forest and Woodland Birding
We continue birding through a variety of habitats in search of flowerpeckers, trogons, barbets, woodpeckers, kingfishers, drongos and canopy specialists.
Special attention is given to locating species such as Malabar Trogon, Blue-eared Kingfisher, Malabar Flameback, White-bellied Woodpecker, Sri Lanka frogmouth and Heart-spotted Woodpecker.
13:00 – Lunch Break
Lunch at a local restaurant or lodge.
14:00 – Afternoon Birding Session
The afternoon focuses on productive forest-edge habitats and secondary woodland areas.
This session often produces drongos, pigeons, leafbirds, minivets, woodpeckers and additional endemic species missed during the morning.
17:00 – Return Journey
Conclude the day’s birding and return to Kochi.
Expected Species Count
October–April: 80–120 species
May–September: 60–100 species
Species totals vary according to season, weather conditions and bird activity.
Seasonal Highlights in Thattekad
October to January
- Winter migrants arrive
- Indian Pitta frequently encountered
- Comfortable temperatures
- Excellent overall bird diversity
February to April
- Breeding activity increases
- Birds become more vocal
- Excellent photography opportunities
- Woodpeckers and barbets especially active
May to September
- Resident rainforest birds remain active
- Lush green forest scenery
- Fewer visitors
- Productive birding despite seasonal rains
Bird Photography Opportunities
This tour is particularly suitable for bird photographers seeking Western Ghats endemic birds and rainforest specialties.
Photographic highlights may include:
- Malabar Grey Hornbill
- Malabar Trogon
- Malabar Flameback
- Asian Fairy Bluebird
- Golden-fronted Leafbird
- Lotten’s Sunbird
- Yellow-browed Bulbul
- Grey-fronted Green Pigeon
- Black-throated Munia
- Malabar Barbet
- Racket-tailed drongo
- White-cheeked Barbet
- Malabar Parakeet
- Southern Hill Myna
- Orange Minivet
- Sri Lanka Frogmouth
- Vernal Hanging Parrot
- Blue-eared Kingfisher
- Flame-throated Bulbul
- Crimson-backed Sunbird
- Heart-spotted Woodpecker
Many birding locations offer excellent natural backgrounds and favourable morning light.
Optional Night Birding Extension
For visitors wishing to extend their experience, an evening birding session can be arranged.
Target nocturnal species may include:
- Sri Lanka Frogmouth
- Oriental Scops Owl
- Mottled Wood Owl
- Indian Scops Owls
- Brown Hawk-Owl
- Jerdon’s Nightjar
Night birding is one of the most exciting wildlife experiences available in Thattekkad.
Tour Information
Duration: Full Day (10–12 Hours)
Difficulty: Easy
Walking Distance: Approximately 3–6 km
Terrain: Mostly flat with undulating forest trails
Suitable for Beginners: Yes
Suitable for Experienced Birders: Yes
Photography Friendly: Yes
Private Tour Available: Yes
Departure Point: Kochi or Thattekkad
Why Bird with Tropic Trails?
Tropic Trails specialises in birdwatching and wildlife experiences across Kerala and the Western Ghats.
Our guides combine local field knowledge with years of experience locating endemic birds, rainforest specialists and nocturnal species.
We focus on:
- Small groups
- Ethical birding practices
- Flexible pace
- Bird photography support
- Experienced local naturalists
- Personalised wildlife experiences
Whether you are building a life list, photographing endemic birds or simply enjoying nature, our team is committed to delivering a rewarding birding experience in one of India’s most celebrated birding destinations.
Inclusion:
- Pickup (from hotel at Thattekkad area) and drop
- Drinking water and refreshments
- AC vehicle
- All entry passes
- Local Birding Guide
