Do you imagine Kerala to be land of placid backwaters, scenic beaches and sprawling tea gardens? Well, you’re absolutely right in thinking so. Kerala has become extremely popular because of its blissful landscape. But it is the presence of the countless beautiful birds that adds life to the picturesque scenery of Kerala. Without its delightful birds, the land would be far from vibrant!

Home to some 550 species of native and exotic birds, the state of Kerala is a paradise for bird lovers. The attractive colours and the delightful chirping of birds can have a calming effect on the soul. To see a flock of birds flying over the backwaters into the sunset is a sight you can never forget! It is also quite special to watch a bird sipping water from a pond or feeding on grain. Even if you are not a nature lover, in particular, the birds of Kerala will make you one in a matter of seconds.

On your trip to Kerala, when you see the birds and their activity, you can't help but be tempted to get a closer look. So if you get your binoculars for the trip, there's nothing like it. Up close, the birds look even more beautiful. They can leave a lasting impression in your mind. A passionate bird watcher can keep looking at the birds and observe their activities for a whole day without experiencing a moment of boredom. To all the bird watchers out there, we want to tell you that you're going to have an exquisite birding experience. experience in Kerala. The land will not disappoint you! The scenic landscape of Kerala adds to the bird-watching experience.

Have a look at just some of the fascinating birds you may spot in Kerala

(1)White-cheeked Barbet 

(2)Malabar Trogon 

(3)Black-rumped Flameback  

(4)Blue-winged Parakeet 

(5)Black-naped Oriole 

(6)Kingfisher

If you want to see the entire list of birds in Kerala, check out the Wikipedia Page. 

Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary

If you want to have a bird-watching experience on a backwater tour, the place you will most likely go to is the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary. It is located on the banks of the Vembanad Lake and is home to a variety of migratory and native birds. Some common sightings in this sanctuary are Kingfishers, Herons, Owls, Egrets, Siberian Duck, Steppe Eagle and Osprey.

A complete tour of the sanctuary is about 4 km long. There are two watchtowers, which offer a panoramic view of the birds spread out in the sanctuary. We recommend you to visit the sanctuary at dawn because a number of birds come out in the open right after sunrise. The view is simply unforgettable.

Apart from the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, there are many other bird sanctuaries in Kerala. Watch this video to see the Top 5 Bird sanctuaries in the state.

We offer our guests amazing bird-watching experiences in our day tours. Please take a look at our list of backwaters tours!

If you are visiting Cochin on a cruise ship and want to experience bird watching in Kerala, get in touch with the team at Cochin Shore Excursions. Take a look at the day tours they offer.!

If you also want to travel to other parts of Kerala and enjoy other experiences in the land along with bird watching, please contact the team at Experience Kerala Holiday Planners. This local tour operator is known for offering a complete experience of Kerala since the team is made up of local experts. Take a look at the itinerary plans they have on offer!