Bird Watching in Mannar

Mannar, in the north-west, is one of the best places in Sri Lanka for wintering water birds. It sits on the route of birds migrating from the north, and its shallow lagoons, mudflats, salt pans and tanks attract huge flocks between about October and March. Several species seen here are rare elsewhere on the island.

Where to go

• Vankalai Sanctuary: a protected wetland on the mainland side of the Mannar causeway, with lagoon, mudflats, scrub and sand dunes. It is a Ramsar wetland of international importance.
• Giant's Tank: a large ancient reservoir inland, good for ducks, storks and other water birds.
• Mannar Island: the causeway, salt pans and coast around the island, out towards Talaimannar.

What you see

Greater flamingos are the star, often in big flocks. Other regular sightings include black-tailed godwits, garganey, pintails, gulls, terns, plovers and many other waders, with crab plovers and pied avocets among the specialities. Raptors such as white-bellied sea eagles and brahminy kites are common.

When to go

October to March for migrants, with the peak usually from December to February. Go at dawn or late afternoon.

How long it takes

A half-day birding circuit is a good start; keen birders spend a full day or two.

Getting there

Mannar is about two hours from Anuradhapura and a similar distance from Jaffna by road. The island is linked to the mainland by a causeway.

Practical tips

• Bring a telescope or good binoculars; birds can be distant.
• Use a local bird guide for the best sites and species.
• There is little shade; carry water and a hat.

Nearby, see the baobab tree and Adam's Bridge. Plan with things to do in Mannar and Mannar hotels.