Bundala National Park
Sri Lanka · Southern Province · 10 m
Description
Bundala National Park (බූන්දල) on Sri Lanka’s dry southern coast is an important wetland and is particularly known for its rich birdlife. A varied landscape of brackish lagoons, salt flats, wetlands and sand dunes provides habitat for around 230 bird species, including numerous migratory birds. Bundala is one of the most important wintering grounds for waders in southern Sri Lanka and regularly attracts large numbers of migratory birds. The area was designated Sri Lanka’s first Ramsar wetland in 1990 and became a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 2005. Alongside its birdlife, the park is home to elephants, crocodiles and other wildlife. Bundala combines distinctive coastal landscapes with remarkable wetland biodiversity.
Length of stay
Recommended length of stay: 1 to 2 days (optimal 1 day)
Travel season
Best time to visit: January – March
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Highlights
- Bundala National Park jeep safari
- Greater flamingo flocks on the lagoons (September - March)
- Migratory waterbirds of the Ramsar wetland
- Elephants of Bundala
- Crocodiles of the Bundala lagoons
- Salt pans of Palatupana and Bundala
- Sea turtle nesting beach
- Coastal dunes and thorn scrub
- Kirinda Rajamaha Viharaya(Day trip)
Getting there
- Nearest airports:
- HRI