Bundala National Park - Bird sanctuary in Sri Lanka

Description

Bundala National Park is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and a birdwatcher's paradise, located on the southern coast of Sri Lanka near Hambantota. It is famous for its diverse wetland ecosystem, which attracts migratory birds, elephants, crocodiles, and leopards. The park's salt pans, lagoons, and scrub forests make it a unique mix of coastal and terrestrial wildlife habitats.

Visitor Fee

• Foreign adult: ~$10 USD
• Foreign child (6-12 years): ~$5 USD
• Local adult: ~$3 USD
• Local child: ~$1.50 USD
• Jeep Safari (mandatory with a guide): ~$40–$60 USD per jeep (can fit up to 6 people)

Transportation

• By Car/Taxi:
  • From Colombo (~5–6 hours, 260 km).
  • From Galle (~3 hours, 180 km).
  • From Tissamaharama (~45 minutes, 35 km).
• By Bus:
  • Take a bus to Hambantota or Tissamaharama, then hire a tuk-tuk to the park entrance.
• By Train:
  • The nearest railway station is in Matara, then take a bus or taxi (~2 hours).

Things to Do

1. Bird Watching – Spot over 200 bird species, including flamingos, pelicans, and painted storks.
2. Wildlife Safari – See elephants, leopards, spotted deer, crocodiles, and monkeys.
3. Visit the Coastal Dunes & Lagoons – Explore the salt pans, sand dunes, and wetlands.
4. Photography & Nature Walks – Capture stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife.
5. Visit Nearby Fishing Villages – Experience the local way of life along the coast.

Why People Enjoy Coming Here

• One of the best bird-watching spots in Sri Lanka.
• Less crowded compared to Yala or Udawalawe National Parks.
• A peaceful blend of wildlife, coastal views, and wetlands.
• Great for nature lovers, photographers, and eco-tourists.

Age of Bundala National Park

• Declared a wildlife sanctuary in 1969 and upgraded to a national park in 1993.
• Over 50 years old as a protected area.

List of Activities

• Birdwatching tours
• Jeep safaris
• Nature walks
• Photography expeditions
• Exploring salt pans & dunes

Additional Nearby Attractions

1. Yala National Park – Famous for leopards and elephants (~1 hour, 50 km).
2. Kalametiya Bird Sanctuary – Another great birdwatching site (~45 minutes, 35 km).
3. Hambantota Salt Pans – Learn about traditional salt production (~20 minutes, 15 km).
4. Tissamaharama (Tissa) Temple – An ancient Buddhist stupa (~40 minutes, 30 km).