Why Visit Kalametiya Bird Sanctuary?

Kalametiya is Sri Lanka’s oldest bird sanctuary and a key destination for bird watching. It is a bird lover’s paradise; abundant in biodiversity, covering 2,500 acres of coastline in the southern Hambantota district. The land is a rich wetland made up of salty lagoons and mangrove swamps, providing shelter for a vast array of both endemic and migratory bird species. The migratory species visit Kalametiya between November and March to roost and nest.

The country is home to over 400 species of birds, a factor attributed to its wide variety of natural habitats, from mountains and lowlands to dry planes and lush forests. Over 150 species call Kalametiya home and a spectacular way to experience its biodiversity in a peaceful setting is to explore the wetlands by boat. Along the way, you may get the chance to spot a number of nationally threatened varieties, such as the Indian reef heron, glossy ibis and Sri Lankan jungle fowl. You can also hope to see Eurasian spoonbills, common snipes and black-winged stilts, while the waters themselves provide a rich habitat for over 40 species of colourful fish.

You can visit from hotels in Tangalle with all its beaches and facilities. Depending on which property you stay in it’s a relatively short drive, making it an ideal day trip. Alternatively, there are a couple of excellent, but very quiet, hotels in the immediate vicinity. Our consultants will happily discuss the options with you.