Chundikkulam National Park

Chundikkulam National Park is a protected coastal and wetland area in Sri Lanka’s Northern Province that includes lagoon, marsh and coastal habitats. It is recognised for its importance to waterbirds and coastal ecology.

The park’s main natural attraction is the Chundikkulam Lagoon and its mosaic of shallow waters, islets and marshes which attract large numbers of waterbirds; birdwatching is a primary activity. Visitors also encounter coastal dry-zone vegetation and experiences of quiet lagoon shoreline scenery rather than developed tourist infrastructure.

The area was identified for protection because of its ecological value as a lagoon and bird habitat; it has been managed to conserve wetland and coastal ecosystems and the species that depend on them. Management actions have focused on protecting feeding and roosting sites for waterbirds and on regulating local resource use.

Chundikkulam National Park lies on Sri Lanka’s northern coastline in the Northern Province, adjacent to coastal villages and lagoon edges. The landscape comprises low-lying lagoon and coastal plains with mangrove and marsh patches.

• Birding tip: Important site for migratory and resident waterbirds, with best birdwatching at low tide around the lagoon margins and islands.

What to See #

• Chundikkulam Lagoon: A coastal lagoon system whose shallow waters and islands provide habitat for many resident and migratory waterbirds, including wintering species from further north.