Bundala National Park

A coastal sanctuary where wetlands shimmer, birds sing in harmony, and elephants roam among flamingos.

📍 Location & Size

Bundala National Park is located in the southeast of Sri Lanka, in the Hambantota District, about 250 km from Colombo and just 30 minutes from Yala National Park. Spanning about 6216 hectares, Bundala is a UNESCO-designated Biosphere Reserve and Ramsar Wetland of International Importance — celebrated for its rich birdlife and unique coastal ecosystems.

🌊 A Wetland Wonderland

Bundala is a mosaic of coastal lagoons, marshes, scrub jungles, salt pans, and sand dunes. It’s the only park in Sri Lanka where you can witness all five species of globally threatened marine turtles come ashore to nest.

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The diverse landscape makes it one of the most important wintering grounds for migratory birds in the country.

🦩 Birdlife — Sri Lanka’s Premier Birding Destination

Bundala is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with over 200 bird species recorded, including:

🌸 Greater flamingos (a highlight during the migratory season)

🦢 Painted storks, black-headed ibis, spot-billed pelicans

🦉 Indian nightjar, blue-tailed bee-eater, lesser whistling duck

🐦 Endemic birds such as the Sri Lanka junglefowl, brown-capped babbler, and Sri Lanka woodshrike

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From November to March, thousands of migratory waterbirds visit Bundala’s lagoons, offering photographers and nature lovers unforgettable sightings.

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🐘 Wildlife Beyond the Birds

Though famed for birds, Bundala offers much more:

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🐘 Asian elephants — often seen bathing in the lagoons

🐊 Mugger crocodiles and saltwater crocodiles

🦊 Golden jackals, monitor lizards, spotted deer

🐢 Nesting grounds for marine turtles like the green turtle and olive ridley

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Its tranquil atmosphere, compared to the busier parks like Yala, offers peaceful wildlife encounters and intimate photography opportunities.

📸 For Photographers and Nature Lovers

Bundala’s dramatic light, mirrored waters, and abundant wildlife make it a top destination for landscape and wildlife photographers — especially during early morning and late afternoon safaris when bird activity is highest.

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Its blend of water, light, and color is simply magical.

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🌿 Why Visit Bundala?

Sri Lanka’s top wetland birding site

Home to migratory flamingos and thousands of other waterbirds

Peaceful, less crowded safari experience

Great alternative or complement to Yala

Rich coastal and lagoon scenery

Important stop for migratory and endemic species

Possibility to witness marine turtle nesting (seasonal)