Bundala National Park

Bundala National Park is a coastal wetland and sanctuary in southeastern Sri Lanka, protecting a complex of lagoons, salt pans and coastal habitats. The reserve is internationally recognised for its importance to migratory and resident waterbirds.

The park’s highlights are shallow lagoons, tidal flats and brackish pools that host large congregations of birds including flamingos, pelicans and a variety of ducks and waders; viewing is organised via hides, short trails and designated roads. The coastal zone includes sandy spits and mangrove-lined channels that support a range of wetland species.

Bundala was set aside for conservation to protect coastal wetlands and migratory stopover habitat and is managed to balance habitat protection with controlled visitor access. Conservation status includes international wetland recognition and ongoing habitat management.

The park lies along Sri Lanka’s southeastern coast in Hambantota District, within Uva Province administrative boundaries, and is accessed from nearby coastal towns and tourist centres in the region.

• Bird diversity: Home to over 200 species of birds, including large wintering and migratory populations of flamingos and waterfowl, making it an important birdwatching site in Sri Lanka.
• Best season: Best time to observe migratory birds is during the dry season and winter months when numbers peak along the lagoons and coastal flats.

What to See #

• Bundala Lagoon: Bundala Lagoon and associated shallow saline pools that form the core wetland habitat for migratory and resident waterbirds.
• Coastal habitats: A mosaic of sand spits, salt pans and mangrove-lined channels along the coastal fringe that provide feeding and roosting areas for birds.
• Observation hides and trails: A set of birdwatching hides and trails used by visitors to view flamingos, pelicans and other waterfowl without disturbing breeding areas.