Sri Lanka Wildlife Photography
Kelaya PhotographyWildlife gallery, field notes, and private safari planning
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About Indika Hettiarachchi
Private Field Experiences
In the field
Founder of Kelaya Photography | Private Field Experiences
I accompany photographers and birders in the field, helping them find and photograph wildlife ethically.
Wildlife has been a way of life for nearly two decades. Since 2006 I have spent my days in Sri Lanka's forests, wetlands, and national parks, building the field knowledge needed to accompany photographers, birdwatchers, and wildlife enthusiasts from around the world.
I founded Kelaya Photography to host authentic, ethical, unhurried wildlife days: exceptional photographs, and a deeper appreciation of Sri Lanka's biodiversity.
Days in the parks run from a well-kept private safari jeep, fitted for photography and for long hours on Sri Lanka's reserve roads.
Near Bandaranaike International Airport
Based close to Colombo Airport, so arrivals and departures stay simple for international travellers.
Since 2006
My wildlife journey officially began in 2006 as a member of the Wildlife and Nature Protection Society of Sri Lanka (WNPS), Asia's oldest conservation organisation, established in 1894. Thousands of field days later, I still spend much of my time outdoors because the best companion in the field never stops learning.
Joined the Wildlife and Nature Protection Society of Sri Lanka.
First Certificate in Ornithology, University of Colombo.
Regular days across Sri Lanka's parks, always learning.
Ornithology
In August 2023 I completed the First Certificate in Ornithology with Merit, run by the Field Ornithology Group of Sri Lanka (FOGSL) at the Department of Zoology and Environment Sciences, University of Colombo.
Lifetime member of the Field Ornithology Group of Sri Lanka (FOGSL)
Across the island
Unlike people who work only in a single national park, I travel Sri Lanka's major parks and reserves throughout the year. Each itinerary is shaped by what is happening now, not by last season's notes.
In the hide and on the track
Outstanding wildlife photography is about far more than finding animals. Whether you travel with long experience or with your first camera, the aim is the same: frames you will be proud of.
On park roads
Field days run from a well-kept Toyota safari jeep. It is private, not a shared truck, and set up for photographers: a high vantage, space for long lenses, a roof rack for kit, and a quiet approach on park tracks in Yala, Wilpattu, Kumana, and beyond.
Birds of Sri Lanka
Birdwatching has always been one of my greatest passions. Over the years I have photographed more than 460 bird species found in Sri Lanka, including almost every endemic, with a wide collection of resident and migratory birds.
Beyond Sri Lanka
Field expeditions outside Sri Lanka have taken me into different habitats, working alongside photographers from around the world. Those days widened my sense of animal behaviour, photographic craft, and the standard overseas travellers expect.
Private field experiences
I host tailor-made private field experiences focused on photography and birding.
Every journey is private and built around your photography or birding goals.
Each itinerary follows the season, current wildlife activity, your available time, and what you most want to photograph or see.
Sri Lankan leopardsEndemic birdsElephants
Sloth bears
ReptilesWildlife photographyParks and destinations
And many other wildlife destinations across Sri Lanka
A way of working
They come from patience, respect for nature, understanding animal behaviour, and being in the right place at the right time. I never chase wildlife for a photograph. Every day in the park is conducted ethically, respecting animals, park regulations, and conservation.
Wait for the animal, not the other way around.
Photographs come from stillness, not pursuit.
Tracks, distances, and regulations stay intact.
The wild comes first. The frame comes second.
Every safari is unique. Every photograph tells a story. My goal is to help you experience the very best of Sri Lanka's wildlife through patience, knowledge, ethical field practice, and a genuine passion for nature.
Why Kelaya Photography
Share unforgettable wildlife days through Kelaya Photography. Send your dates, group size, and what you most want to see.