Bundala National Park

Located on the south coast of Sri Lanka, 245 km southeast of Colombo, Bundala National Park is home to a fantastic maze of waterways, lagoons and dunes that glitter like gold in the glowing afternoon sun. Designated sanctuary status in 1969, awarded Ramsar status in 1991, and National Park status in 1993, the park is Sri Lanka’s fourth UNESCO Biosphere Reserve due to its wealth of wetland birds. The park provides a home to thousands of colourful birds ranging from little bee-eaters to large open-billed storks and the rare black-necked stork. It is possible to see flocks of over 1,000 Greater flamingos here and large flocks of numerous other species. The park also contains over 48 reptile species, 52 species of butterfly, 15 species of amphibian and 32 mammal species, not to mention the numerous fish, birds and invertebrates.

In short, Bundala is a wildlife watchers dream. Known predominantly for its abundance of rare and wonderful birds, the park is a must-see for amateur and professional twitchers alike. The outgoing, friendly herd of elephants that roam these parts also mean the park will win favour with those who are more inclined to mammals, so too will the Toque Macaques, Common Langurs, Jackals, Leopards and Fishing Cats.

Focussing on particular animal groups aside, this special place is a paradise for simply sitting back and enjoying nature.

Bundala is an important part of a specialist birdwatching tour of Sri Lanka. It is one of the best birding sights in Sri Lanka and is for those who really want to get out there and get a flavour of Sri Lanka’s extraordinary biodiversity.