Why Visit Kalametiya Bird Sanctuary?

Kalametiya is Sri Lanka’s oldest bird sanctuary. 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.

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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 in a morning or afternoon 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.

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