South India & Andaman Islands Birding Expedition

15 Days / 14 Nights Welcome to an immersive birding journey that blends remote island endemics with the cloud-kissed hills and evergreen forests of the Western Ghats. This carefully curated route offers a balanced rhythm of early-morning birding, relaxed travel, and evenings spent recounting sightings with fellow birders.

Step into a remarkable birding journey that combines the isolated richness of the Andaman Islands with the lush biodiversity of the Western Ghats. This tour is thoughtfully paced to balance focused birding sessions, comfortable travel, and time to enjoy the landscapes and culture of southern India.

Day 1 – Arrival in Delhi & Introductory Birding

Arrive in Delhi, where you will be met and transferred to your hotel.

If time allows, head out for a gentle birding session in Delhi’s parks or wetlands. This is a great introduction to Indian birdlife with chances to see Indian Peafowl, Black Drongo, Rose-ringed Parakeet, White-throated Kingfisher, and various waterbirds.

Overnight in Delhi.

Day 2 – Flight to Port Blair & Introduction to Andaman Birdlife

A morning flight takes you across the Bay of Bengal to Port Blair. On arrival, you’ll head straight into nearby habitats including coastal vegetation, mangroves, and secondary forests.

This first outing introduces you to Andaman specialties such as Andaman Drongo, White-headed Starling, and Collared Kingfisher. As evening approaches, there’s a chance to listen for the elusive Andaman Scops Owl.

Day 3 – Exploring Forests & Mangroves of the Andamans

Today is dedicated to exploring the rich habitats of the islands. Visits to areas like Chidiya Tapu or Mount Manipur provide access to dense evergreen forest and mangrove systems.

Key species may include Andaman Treepie, Andaman Serpent Eagle, and Andaman Woodpigeon. With patience, more secretive birds like Andaman Crake may also be encountered. The day is paced with breaks to enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

Day 4 – Focus on Andaman Endemics

A full day to concentrate on the islands’ unique endemic birds. Moving through forest trails and edge habitats, you’ll search for Andaman Bulbul, Andaman Cuckoo-Dove, and various skulking species.

The experience is as much about sound as sight—listening to calls echoing through dense forest adds to the magic of birding here.

Day 5 – Return to Mainland & Transfer to Ooty

After a final morning, you’ll fly back to mainland India via Chennai and continue onward to Coimbatore. From here, a scenic drive leads into the Nilgiri Hills.

Arriving in Ooty, the cooler mountain climate offers a refreshing change. If time allows, short birding sessions may reveal Nilgiri Flycatcher or the melodious Malabar Whistling Thrush.

Day 6 – Nilgiri Highlands & Transfer to Mudumalai

Early morning birding in Ooty’s montane forests targets high-altitude species such as Nilgiri Laughingthrush and Black-and-orange Flycatcher.

Later, descend toward Mudumalai Tiger Reserve. As the habitat shifts, new birdlife appears—Grey Junglefowl, bee-eaters, and other woodland species become more common.

Day 7 – Birding in Mudumalai Tiger Reserve

A full day exploring the varied habitats of Mudumalai. From dry deciduous forest to moist woodland, this region supports a wide diversity of birds.

Expect sightings of hornbills, woodpeckers, barbets, and raptors. Quiet observation may also reward you with mammals, adding to the experience.

Day 8 – Return to Ooty & Highland Birding

Travel back toward Ooty with birding stops along the way. Explore shola forests, gardens, and tea estates that host a mix of endemic and widespread species.

The afternoon offers a relaxed pace with opportunities for photography and enjoying the scenic Nilgiri landscapes.

Day 9 – Journey to Munnar

Begin your drive toward Munnar, passing through dramatic hill scenery and plantation landscapes. A stop near Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary provides a break and additional birding opportunities.

Arrive in Munnar by evening and settle into your lodge.

Day 10 – Birding in Munnar’s Shola Forests

Spend the day exploring Munnar’s unique mix of grassland and forest.

Target species include Nilgiri Flycatcher, Kerala Laughingthrush, and White-bellied Shortwing. The cool climate and beautiful scenery make this a memorable day in the Western Ghats.

Day 11 – Transfer to Thekkady & Periyar Lake

After morning birding, travel to Thekkady, home to Periyar National Park.

In the afternoon, enjoy a boat ride on Periyar Lake, scanning for waterbirds and raptors such as Grey-headed Fish Eagle and Indian Darter. Forest edges may reveal hornbills and other specialties.

Day 12 – Full Day in Periyar National Park

A full day to explore the diverse habitats of Periyar. Guided walks through forest trails provide opportunities to see hornbills, woodpeckers, babblers, and more.

The mix of evergreen and deciduous forest supports excellent bird diversity throughout the day.

Day 13 – Transfer to Thattekad Bird Sanctuary

Travel west toward Thattekad, one of southern India’s most important birding sites.

Afternoon birding focuses on riverine and forest habitats where species like Malabar Trogon and Stork-billed Kingfisher may be found.

Day 14 – Full Day Birding in Thattekad

Spend a full day exploring the sanctuary’s varied habitats.

Look for Malabar Grey Hornbill, Crimson-backed Sunbird, White-bellied Treepie, and Indian Blue Robin. Evening birding may produce nightjars or owls.

Day 15 – Departure from Cochin

After a final optional morning walk, transfer to Cochin International Airport for your onward journey.

You leave with memories of a truly diverse birding experience—from island endemics of the Andamans to the rich forests of the Western Ghats.