Kumana National Park

Where the wild winds whisper through mangroves, and birds from distant lands find sanctuary.

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📍 Location & Size

Kumana National Park lies on the southeastern coast of Sri Lanka, bordering the more famous Yala National Park. It covers approximately 357 square kilometers and is about 391 km from Colombo, with easy access from Arugam Bay.

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Kumana is a haven for birdlife, wetlands, and peaceful wilderness — often overshadowed by Yala but beloved by true nature enthusiasts.

 

🦢 Avian Paradise – The Kumana Villu Wetlands

The park is centered around the Kumana Villu, a 200-hectare natural swamp that floods seasonally with seawater. This lush wetland attracts over 250 species of birds, especially from April to July, when the Kumana Bird Migration peaks.

 

You’ll witness:

Painted storks

Eurasian spoonbills

Black-necked storks

Glossy ibises

Indian cormorants

Pelicans and herons in synchronized flight

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Many migratory species travel thousands of kilometers to nest here, making it one of the top birdwatching sites in South Asia.

 

🐆 Elusive Predators & Shy Giants

Though less frequented than Yala, Kumana shares its wildlife corridor, meaning that leopards, elephants, and sloth bears still roam its forests and open plains. Other sightings include:

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🐘 Wild elephants along the riverbanks

🐆 Stealthy leopards among the scrub

🐻 Sloth bears and jackals in the shade

🐊 Mugger crocodiles lurking in the waterways

🐾 Fishing cats and wild boar

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The tranquil nature of the park means less traffic, more silence, and purer experiences.

 

🕊️ For the Birdwatcher’s Soul

Kumana is often called the “hidden Eden for birders”. It’s quiet, immersive, and truly magical in the early mornings. Many local and international

birding tours include Kumana as a highlight.

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Expect long lenses, hushed excitement, and the flutter of rare wings — including Sri Lanka’s endemics like:

 

Sri Lanka green pigeon

Brown-capped babbler

Sri Lanka grey hornbill

 

🛖 Culture and Ancient History

Like Wilpattu, Kumana also has ancient roots. The Kudumbigala Monastery, a stone complex over 2,000 years old, lies just outside the park. The nearby coastline features old fishing villages and rock temples, merging wild nature with living heritage.

 

🌿 Why Visit Kumana?

Fewer crowds compared to Yala

One of Sri Lanka’s best birding destinations

Untouched wilderness ideal for photographers

Can be combined with a beach holiday in Arugam Bay

Deep sense of isolation and peace in nature