Bundala

Bundala National Park, on the south coast between Hambantota and Kirinda, is a mosaic of shallow brackish lagoons, salt pans, dunes and thorn scrub. It is one of the most important wetlands in Sri Lanka for water birds, especially in the northern winter, when flamingos and many other migrants arrive.

History

Bundala was declared a sanctuary in 1969 and a national park in 1993. In 1990 it became Sri Lanka's first wetland listed under the Ramsar Convention, and in 2005 it was declared a UNESCO biosphere reserve. The sand dunes along its coast helped limit damage from the 2004 tsunami.

Lagoons

The park has five shallow lagoons, Bundala, Embilikala, Malala, Koholankala and Mahalewaya, some of which are used for salt production. The mix of fresh and salt water draws large flocks of birds.

Birds

Around 200 bird species have been recorded, many of them migrants. Greater flamingos are the star, usually from about September to March, along with painted storks, spoonbills, pelicans, herons, terns and many waders. See bird watching in Bundala.

Other wildlife

Mugger and saltwater crocodiles bask along the lagoons, and elephants, jackals, mongoose, monitor lizards and deer are seen. Several species of sea turtle nest on the beaches.

Nearby

Weerawila and Tissa wetlands, the Ridiyagama Safari Park, the Telulla archaeological site and the golf course at Shangri-La Hambantota are all within reach. Yala is about 30 minutes east.

Getting there and when to go

Bundala is about 250 km from Colombo, around four hours on the Southern Expressway, and about 20 minutes from Tissamaharama. The area is hot and dry for most of the year; the best time for birds is from about September to March.

Safari tips

Jeep safaris are usually booked through lodges or local drivers, and park entrance fees, charged per person plus vehicle and tracker charges, are paid at the ticket office on top of the jeep hire. Morning and late afternoon drives give the best light and the most animal activity, while midday is hot and quiet. Bring binoculars, a hat, sunscreen and water, wear muted colours, and stay inside the vehicle. Ask your driver to keep a respectful distance from elephants and not to chase or crowd animals. Plastic is discouraged inside national parks, and feeding wildlife is prohibited.

Hotels in Bundala

For accommodation, see hotels in Bundala, with options for different budgets.

Where to stay

Most visitors stay in Tissamaharama, Kirinda or Hambantota; tented camps are also available. See camping at Bundala and things to do in Bundala.