Hanthana Bird Park Kandy: Tickets, Hours & Visitor Guide
Plan a visit to Hanthana International Bird Park & Recreation Center in the hills above Kandy, with current opening-hour guidance, ticket information, bird encounters, family activities, transport tips and an honest look at what recent visitors report.
Visitor information checked on 4 September 2026. Current major travel listings show 9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. A March 2026 visitor report listed the foreign adult entrance price at LKR 3,500. Older sources show different days and prices, so confirm current admission and opening arrangements directly with the park before travelling.
Call +94 76 612 0120 →Is Hanthana Bird Park worth visiting?
Hanthana Bird Park is best suited to families, casual nature lovers and travellers who enjoy seeing colourful birds at close range. Its hillside setting, bird-feeding encounters and recreation areas make it different from Kandy’s temples, museums and city attractions—but the experience is more like a managed bird park than wild birdwatching.
Go for close bird encounters, not a wilderness safari
If your main goal is to photograph colourful parrots, walk through a green hillside attraction and give children an interactive nature stop, the park can fit well into a Kandy itinerary. If you are looking for birds living freely in untouched habitat, consider combining Kandy with a genuine forest or wetland birdwatching experience elsewhere in Sri Lanka.
Close viewing
Observe a wide variety of colourful birds in managed enclosures and interaction zones.
Family friendly
Play areas, animal encounters and recreation activities make it especially popular with children.
Hanthana setting
The park sits in a greener, cooler hillside environment above central Kandy.
Easy half-day stop
Many visitors can comfortably combine the park with another Hanthana or Kandy attraction.
What is Hanthana International Bird Park & Recreation Center?
Hanthana International Bird Park & Recreation Center is a privately operated bird park and recreation attraction in the Hanthana area of Kandy. It opened to the public in February 2023 and was developed as a bird-focused eco-tourism and educational destination.
Reports from the park’s opening described a wider 27-acre project with facilities connected to bird care, education, quarantine, rehabilitation and visitor recreation. Travel guides and visitor reports also describe bird viewing, feeding areas, children’s spaces and additional paid activities.
This is a managed visitor attraction with captive and managed birds. It should not be confused with a wild-bird sanctuary where every species is observed roaming freely in natural habitat.
History and purpose of Hanthana Bird Park
Contemporary reports from February 2023 described Hanthana International Bird Park as one of Sri Lanka’s first major bird-focused eco-tourism projects of its kind. It was formally opened on 20 February 2023 and opened to the public shortly afterwards.
At launch, the project was reported as costing around LKR 490 million and covering approximately 27 acres beside the Hanthana Tea Museum area. The concept included facilities for foreign and migratory birds, educational training, bird care and tourism.
Where is Hanthana Bird Park?
The park is in Hanthana, Kandy, close to the Ceylon Tea Museum area. Current business listings use the address 7J9P+F37, Kandy, Sri Lanka. The exact road distance depends on where you start in Kandy, but it is a short drive from the city rather than a remote day trip.
One heritage mapping source places the attraction at approximately 7°16'07.4"N 80°38'06.4"E. The hillside roads become quieter and greener as you climb away from central Kandy.
What birds can you see at Hanthana Bird Park?
Different travel sources describe a collection of more than one hundred bird species across the wider park project. Frequently mentioned groups include parrots and macaws, peacocks, owls, eagles and kingfishers, along with birds linked to Sri Lanka’s endemic avifauna.
The exact collection can change. Birds may move between enclosures, rehabilitation areas or different displays, so treat any online species list as an example rather than a guarantee for the day you visit.
Parrots & macaws
Brightly coloured parrots are among the most photographed birds and may feature in supervised interaction areas.
Popular with familiesOwls & raptors
Travel guides regularly mention owls and larger birds of prey among the species visitors may encounter.
Observe calmlySri Lankan birds
Some guides mention endemic species such as the Sri Lanka Junglefowl and Yellow-fronted Barbet.
Learn the difference
Bird feeding and close encounters
Bird-feeding areas are one of the park’s most talked-about experiences. Recent visitor reports describe opportunities to enter designated interaction areas, purchase feed and have certain birds placed on a visitor’s hand or shoulder under staff supervision.
These experiences may require a separate fee in addition to admission. Pricing for feed cups, cage entry and photo experiences has changed over time, so do not rely on an old screenshot or travel blog for the exact amount.
- Use only food supplied or approved by park staff.
- Do not chase, grab or restrain a bird for a photograph.
- Follow staff instructions before allowing a bird onto your hand or shoulder.
- Keep fingers away from large parrot beaks unless a handler clearly tells you where to place your hand.
- Supervise young children closely inside interaction areas.
- Skip an interaction if a bird appears distressed or repeatedly moves away.
Best approach: treat feeding and photos as optional extras. Observing the birds calmly is still a complete visit if you prefer not to participate in animal-handling experiences.
Other activities at Hanthana Bird Park
The attraction is branded as a bird park and recreation center. Visitor reports and travel listings mention a range of additional activities, although availability and prices can change from day to day.
Children’s play areas
Family-oriented zones provide a break between bird enclosures and walking sections.
Archery & target games
Some recent visitor reports mention archery and shooting-style recreational activities for an extra fee.
Horse & recreation rides
Horse riding and other paid activities have been reported, but availability should be checked on arrival.
Food & rest stops
Travelers report café or canteen facilities, though not every outlet may be open every day.
Photo spots
Decorative areas and colourful birds make the park popular for casual family and travel photography.
Educational elements
The wider project was developed with training and educational facilities connected to bird science and care.
Visiting Hanthana Bird Park with children
Families are one of the park’s clearest target audiences. Children can see large colourful birds at close range, watch feeding activity and use recreation areas between enclosures. The visit can also become a simple introduction to bird behaviour, food, beak shapes and the difference between native, endemic and exotic species.
- Explain before entering that birds should not be chased or shouted at.
- Keep small children beside you on steeper paths and steps.
- Carry water and a light snack in case some food outlets are closed.
- Use insect repellent because the grounds are green and shaded.
- Choose comfortable, grippy footwear instead of smooth sandals.
- Allow extra time if your child wants to stop at feeding or play zones.
What recent visitors say about the park
Online visitor feedback is mixed. Some recent visitors praise the green setting, colourful birds, family activities and feeding experiences. Others have raised concerns about maintenance, the condition or size of some enclosures, additional activity charges and the value of the entrance fee.
Because these are visitor observations rather than an independent welfare inspection, PeraheraGo does not present either side as a definitive assessment. Conditions can also change. If animal welfare is important to your travel decisions, check the most recent dated photographs and reviews before visiting, then make your own assessment on site.
Avoid any interaction that appears to stress an animal. Do not tease birds, force contact, use flash at close range or participate in handling when the bird is repeatedly trying to move away.
Hanthana Bird Park opening hours
As of 4 September 2026, several current travel and business listings show 9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. for Hanthana International Bird Park & Recreation Center.
| Information | Current planning guidance | Why to verify |
|---|---|---|
| Current listed time | 9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. | Recent 2026 listings agree on this time window. |
| Opening days | Current major listings show daily operation | Older sources reported Monday closure, so call before a Monday visit. |
| Last entry | Confirm directly | Last admission may be earlier than the displayed closing time. |
| Public holidays | Confirm directly | Special events, maintenance or private arrangements may affect access. |
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Hanthana Bird Park ticket prices
Ticket pricing has changed since the park opened, and older travel pages still show earlier rates. The most recent clearly dated foreign-visitor report PeraheraGo found was based on a March 2026 visit and listed LKR 3,500 for a foreign adult.
Foreign adult
LKR 3,500 was reported by a March 2026 visitor. Confirm the current rate before travelling.
Recent visitor reportLocal admission
Recent 2026 reviews mention an adult local rate around LKR 700, but PeraheraGo could not verify a current official tariff.
Verify before visitBird feeding, interaction areas, rides and recreation activities may carry separate charges. Carrying some cash is useful even if card payment is available at the main ticket counter.
Several older guides still show lower foreign ticket prices. Use the phone number or current social listing to confirm your group’s exact price before you travel.
Best time to visit Hanthana Bird Park
Earlier morning
Cooler walking conditions and softer light make the first part of the day comfortable for families and photography.
Drier weather
Rain can make sloping paths and uneven ground less comfortable, so a dry forecast simplifies the visit.
Weekdays
If you prefer fewer family groups, a non-holiday weekday may feel calmer than a busy weekend.
Most visitors should allow around 1.5–2 hours. Bird enthusiasts, families using the recreation areas or visitors buying several activities may spend longer.
How to get to Hanthana Bird Park
The easiest option for most foreign travellers is a tuk-tuk, taxi, ride-hailing car or private vehicle. The park is close enough to central Kandy for a straightforward half-day trip, but the final approach is uphill.
- Search for the full name: “Hanthana International Bird Park & Recreation Center.”
- Use the current map pin instead of relying only on a typed street address.
- Tell a tuk-tuk driver that the park is in the Hanthana / Tea Museum area.
- Agree the tuk-tuk fare or confirm the app price before leaving Kandy.
- Arrange a pickup time if you are visiting near closing or during a quiet period.
Walking, terrain and accessibility
Hanthana’s hillside setting means the visit involves slopes, steps and longer walking than an indoor museum. A recent heritage guide specifically notes that the site slopes and recommends comfortable footwear.
Current business data lists a wheelchair-accessible entrance and wheelchair-accessible parking, but that does not mean every path or activity area is level. Visitors with limited mobility should ask the park which route is currently most suitable and whether assistance is available.
Choose walking shoes or secure sandals with grip. After rain, shaded paths can stay damp and some areas may become slippery.
What to bring to Hanthana Bird Park
Wear
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Light breathable clothing
- Cap or sun hat for open sections
- Light rain layer in uncertain weather
Carry
- Drinking water
- Insect repellent
- Small amount of cash
- Phone or camera with charged battery
What to combine with Hanthana Bird Park
The park’s Hanthana location makes it easy to combine with tea heritage, hill scenery or central Kandy. A simple plan is to visit the bird park earlier in the day and then return toward the city for cultural sightseeing.
Ceylon Tea Museum
The natural pairing: explore the bird park and then learn how Ceylon Tea developed in the same Hanthana area.
Kandy city
Return to central Kandy for Kandy Lake, shopping, food and evening sightseeing.
Sri Dalada Maligawa
Pair a morning nature attraction with Kandy’s most important sacred and cultural landmark later in the day.
Hanthana scenery
If your schedule allows, use the trip uphill to enjoy viewpoints and the greener side of Kandy.
Easy half-day route: Hanthana Bird Park → Ceylon Tea Museum → lunch in Kandy. For a full day, add Kandy Lake and Sri Dalada Maligawa later.
Frequently asked questions
Where is Hanthana Bird Park?
Hanthana International Bird Park & Recreation Center is in Hanthana, in the hills above Kandy, close to the Ceylon Tea Museum area. Current listings use the address 7J9P+F37, Kandy, Sri Lanka.
What are Hanthana Bird Park opening hours?
Current major 2026 listings show 9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. Older sources report different opening days and times, so call +94 76 612 0120 before a time-sensitive visit.
How much is the Hanthana Bird Park ticket for foreigners?
A clearly dated March 2026 visitor report listed LKR 3,500 for a foreign adult. Ticket prices can change, so confirm the current rate directly with the park before travelling.
How long do you need at Hanthana Bird Park?
Around 1.5–2 hours is a sensible starting point. Allow longer if you plan to use feeding zones, children’s play areas or paid recreation activities.
Can visitors feed birds at Hanthana Bird Park?
Yes, visitor reports describe designated feeding and interaction areas. These may involve an extra fee, and you should use only park-approved food and follow handler instructions.
Is Hanthana Bird Park good for children?
It is designed as a family attraction and includes bird encounters, educational elements and recreation spaces. Young children should be supervised closely around birds and on sloping paths.
Is Hanthana Bird Park the same as wild birdwatching?
No. It is a managed bird park with captive and managed birds. Wild birdwatching focuses on observing free-ranging birds in natural habitats without enclosure-based displays.
What is the Hanthana Bird Park phone number?
Current business and travel listings show +94 76 612 0120 for Hanthana International Bird Park & Recreation Center.
Pair Hanthana nature with Kandy’s history and culture
Use PeraheraGo’s Kandy guides to combine the Bird Park with tea heritage, Sri Dalada Maligawa, Kandy Lake and other attractions around the city.