Wildlife Sanctuary

Bundala National Park

Sri Lanka's premier birdwatching sanctuary and Ramsar Wetland — a coastal lagoon paradise where flamingos, pelicans, and 200+ bird species gather in spectacular numbers.

200+

species

Bird Species

6,216

hectares

Park Area

Nov–Apr

season

Peak Birdwatching

245 km

from Colombo

4.5 hrs drive

Sri Lanka's Premier Birdwatching Wetland

Bundala National Park on Sri Lanka's southern coast is the island's most important wetland for migratory birds and a designated Ramsar Wetland of International Importance. The park protects a mosaic of coastal lagoons, salt pans, sand dunes, and dry scrub forest that provides critical habitat for both resident and migratory waterbirds. Between November and April, tens of thousands of migratory birds arrive from as far as Siberia and Central Asia, including large flocks of greater flamingos — a spectacular sight against the backdrop of the coastal lagoons. The park is also home to elephants, crocodiles, and sea turtles, making it a rewarding destination for all wildlife enthusiasts.

Flock of greater flamingos wading in a coastal lagoon at Bundala National Park, Sri Lanka

Flamingos & Migratory Birds

Bundala is the only place in Sri Lanka where greater flamingos are regularly seen, with flocks of up to 2,000 birds arriving between November and March. The sight of pink flamingos wading in the coastal lagoons against the blue sky is one of Sri Lanka's most photogenic wildlife scenes. The park also hosts large numbers of migratory waders including black-tailed godwits, curlew sandpipers, and little stints, as well as painted storks, spot-billed pelicans, and lesser adjutants. Over 200 bird species have been recorded in the park, making it a must-visit for birdwatchers.

Wild elephants walking along the coastal scrubland at Bundala National Park, Sri Lanka

Elephants & Coastal Wildlife

Despite its relatively small size, Bundala supports a resident elephant population of around 60 animals that move between the park and the surrounding farmland. The coastal scrub and lagoon edges are excellent for elephant sightings, particularly in the early morning. Mugger crocodiles are abundant in the lagoons, and the park's beaches are important nesting sites for five species of sea turtle including the olive ridley and leatherback. The park's dry scrub forest is home to sambar deer, spotted deer, and the Sri Lankan junglefowl.

Coastal lagoon landscape at Bundala National Park with sand dunes and blue sky, Sri Lanka

Lagoons, Dunes & Coastal Scenery

Bundala's landscape is unlike any other national park in Sri Lanka — a narrow strip of coastal habitat between the Indian Ocean and the inland scrub, with a series of interconnected lagoons separated by sand dunes and salt flats. The park's coastal scenery is stunning, with the lagoons reflecting the sky and the dunes providing elevated viewpoints over the wetlands. The park is located just 15 km east of Hambantota and 40 km east of Tangalle, making it easy to combine with a beach stay on the south coast.

Practical Information

Best Time to VisitNovember–April for migratory birds and flamingos; park open year-round

Entry FeeUSD 15 per person (foreigners); jeep hire ~LKR 5,000–7,000 for a 3-hour safari

Getting There245 km from Colombo (4.5 hrs); 15 km east of Hambantota on the southern coastal highway

Safari Duration3-hour jeep safari covers the main lagoons and birdwatching areas; morning safaris best for birds

BinocularsEssential for birdwatching — bring your own or hire from operators near the park entrance

Combine WithYala National Park (40 km east) and Tangalle Beach (40 km west) — perfect south coast wildlife and beach combination

Tips for Visiting Bundala

Bring Good Binoculars

Birdwatching is the main attraction. A pair of 8x42 or 10x42 binoculars will transform your experience — waterbirds are often at a distance across the lagoons.

Visit November–March

The flamingos and migratory waders arrive in November and peak in January–February. Outside this window the park is still beautiful but the bird numbers are lower.

Go at Dawn for Birds

Waterbirds are most active in the early morning. The 6 AM safari gives the best light for photography and the highest bird activity before the heat of the day.

Pair with Yala

Bundala and Yala are just 40 km apart. A two-day south coast safari — Bundala for birds, Yala for leopards — is one of Sri Lanka's classic wildlife itineraries.

Ask About Turtle Nesting

Between November and April, sea turtles nest on Bundala's beaches. Ask your guide about turtle nesting activity — night visits may be possible with ranger permission.

Protect Yourself from the Sun

Bundala's open lagoon landscape offers little shade. Wear a hat, apply sunscreen, and bring sunglasses — the reflected glare from the water intensifies the UV exposure.