9 Best Bird Sanctuaries In Sri Lanka

1. Kalametiya Bird Sanctuary

Explore nature’s beauty at Kalametiya Bird Sanctuary for a scenic outdoor experience. The sanctuary is located approximately 12.4 miles (20 kilometers) from the city of Tangalle. This is one of the best places for bird watchers to spend time. There are over 140 species of bird that you’ll see here. You will also see migratory birds flying from place to place in search of food. Weaver birds are the most common type of species of bird that you’ll see at the sanctuary.

Kalametiya Bird Sanctuary

Address: Gurupokuna Rd, E.J.A.P. Buddhi Priyankara,, 1/81, Bataata South Hungama, Hambantota 82120, Sri Lanka

Website: Kalametiya Bird Sanctuary

Opening hours: 6am - 6pm (daily)

2. Mannar Bird Sanctuary

Enjoy watching different species of birds at Mannar Bird Sanctuary. Explore the terrain from Doric House to Mannar Fort for an unprecedented picturesque of the region. The abundance of nature’s gems stretches across the landscape with features such as lagoons, wetlands, and beaches. You will see the migratory birds flocking the region after the passing of different seasons. The Giant’s Tank is an ideal point for you to spot ducks and flamingoes.

Mannar Bird Sanctuary

Address: Mannar, Sri Lanka

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

3. Anawilundawa Bird Sanctuary

Visit Anawilundawa Bird Sanctuary and discover a wide range of bird species. The tropical climate creates the perfect setting for the breeding and nesting of many types of birds. You’ll see more than 150 species of birds in their natural habitat. The examples of birds found here include storks, herons, white ibis, and many more. You also have over 70 species of butterflies and 20 species of mammals that you can look for here. The spot is ideal for nature lovers looking to enjoy some time in the wild.

Anawilundawa Bird Sanctuary

Address: Puttalam, Sri Lanka

4. Bundala National Park

Come to Bundala National Park and witness the migration of birds. The park is home to over 190 species of birds. Flamingos will provide you with a spectacular picturesque as they migrate in large numbers. The ecological system of the park facilitates the development of various plant and animal species that you’ll spot on the region. The views of lagoons, sand dunes, and swamps connect you with nature.

Bundala National Park

Address: Weligatta, bundala 82004, Sri Lanka

Opening hours: 6am - 6pm (daily)

5. Attidiya Bird Sanctuary

Situated in a beautiful place at Boralesgamuwa is Attidiya Bird Sanctuary. The place provides you with the opportunity of taking photographs of birds and other animal species. Various insects, reptiles, and butterflies consider the place their natural habitat. You will also cherish breathtaking views of rivers, sandy beaches, and waterfalls. The beauty will definitely amaze you as you’ll get to learn of various bird species and their natural habitat.

Attidiya Bird Sanctuary

Address: 114b Kahawita Mawatha, Boralesgamuwa, Sri Lanka

Opening hours: 9am - 5pm (daily)

6. Wilpattu National Park

Go for an exciting bird watching experience at Wilpattu National Park. The park is home to many animal species including leopards, elephants, deer, and many more. It also has distinctive water basins that create lovely scenery. As you walk along the many trails in the park, you will find nests of different bird species. The region has birds such as lesser whistling duck, garganey, American white ibis, purple heron, spoonbills, and many more.

Wilpattu National Park

Address: Wilpattu National Park, Saliyapura, Sri Lanka

Website: Wilpattu National Park

Opening hours: 6am - 6pm (daily)

7. Kalametiya Lagoon Bird Sanctuary & Wetland Park

Spend time at Kalametiya Lagoon Bird Sanctuary & Wetland Park for a peaceful holiday watching various plant species. Over 150 species of bird awaits your visit. Just to name a few, you will encounter species such as the great egret, herons, and pelicans. All kinds of birds from endemic birds, resident birds, and migratory birds are found here. You will also enjoy views of the scenic landscape with features such as lagoons, shrubs, and mangrove trees. Visit this place for a fun experience indulging in nature with friends and family.

Kalametiya Lagoon Bird Sanctuary & Wetland Park

Address: Mahesh M Jayasooriya, 122/26, Hungama Gurupokuna Road, Kalametiya, Tangalle 82120, Sri Lanka

Website: Kalametiya Lagoon Bird Sanctuary & Wetland Park

Opening hours: 6 - 8:30am, 4 - 6:30pm (daily)

8. Galway's Land National Park

Galway’s Land National Park is a scenic bird sanctuary located close to the city of Nuwara Eliya. The park’s convenient location provides you with easy accessibility. You can join many other tourists who visit for an exciting bird watching experience. The ecosystem supports many animals and plants that you see in the region. You will have the opportunity to find both migratory and native birds that consider the park their natural or seasonal habitat. The walking trails have scenic views that make you meditate and relax.

Galway's Land National Park

Address: Department of Wildlife Conservation, Havelock Rd, Nuwara Eliya 22200, Sri Lanka

Website: Galway’s Land National Park

Opening hours: 6am - 5pm (daily)

9. Thangamale Sanctuary

Sitting on top of a hill is Thangamale Sanctuary. This place is not known by many due to its location. It is a beautiful place for you to visit to have an adventure and to birdwatch. Along with other animal species, you’ll see both rare and endemic bird species here. The serenity that comes from the lush greenery and sounds of birds chirping will relieve you from the hustle and bustle of the city. Birds such as Sri Lanka hanging parrot, Sri Lankan junglefowl, and Sri Lanka white-eye are some of the species you’ll encounter here.

Thangamale Sanctuary

Address: Beragala, Sri Lanka

Enjoy the chirping sounds of birds in Sri Lanka

Visit the region and learn of the many species of birds during your holiday. Sri Lanka is a region blessed with plenty of natural resources that are a must-see for first-time visitors.