Birdwatching in Bundala National Park
Bundala National Park is a Ramsar-listed coastal wetland and one of Sri Lanka’s most important birdwatching sites. This activity focuses on guided birdwatching safaris through the park’s lagoons, salt pans, mangroves and scrubland to observe resident and migratory waterbirds and shorebirds. Expect binocular-friendly, low-impact walking and short jeep drives between key viewing points.
Location
Bundala National Park, Bundala (near Hambantota), Sri Lanka
Duration
Options: Half-day (3–4 hours) or Full-day (6–8 hours). Early-morning sessions (sunrise to mid-morning) are most productive.
Best Time to Visit
Best months: November to April (dry season) when migratory waterbirds peak. Best time of day: Early morning (sunrise to 9:30) and late afternoon for active feeding and roosting behaviour.
Pricing
Approximate pricing (subject to change):
- Park entry: LKR 1,000–3,000 per foreign adult (≈ USD 5–15).
- Guide fee: LKR 1,500–4,000 (shared).
- Vehicle/jeep hire: LKR 3,000–8,000 for a half-day depending on group size. Note: Local prices and permit rules change; confirm with the park office or your operator before travel.
Activity Type
Coordinates
Highlights
Ramsar-designated coastal lagoons, salt pans and mangroves
Large concentrations of migratory waterbirds (winter visitors from Siberia and beyond)
Common species: greater flamingo, Eurasian spoonbill, painted stork, pelicans, egrets and herons
Good chances for Sri Lankan endemics and locals such as Sri Lanka junglefowl and various wetland-specialists
Scenic coastal views and photogenic salt pans ideal for photography
Opportunity to combine with nearby Hambantota birding and coastal tours
Itinerary
Arrival at park entrance and briefing with local guide
Pay park fees, collect permits and confirm jeep/vehicle. Dress and equipment check (binoculars, hat, water).
Early-morning guided jeep safari to the Bundala lagoons
Slow drive to key vantage points for waterbird flocks; stops for scope-and-binocular views and photography.
Walk to bird hides / salt pans for close observation
Short, guided walks on flat terrain — keep voices low and follow the guide to avoid flushing birds.
Return to visitor centre or optional transfer to nearby wetlands
Discuss sightings, optional short break. For full-day groups continue to additional habitats and estuary mouths.
Afternoon estuary watch (optional, full-day only)
Some species are more active on the incoming tide; a second session increases species count for the day.
Safety Requirements
Carry enough drinking water and sun protection (hat, sunscreen) — temperatures can be high
Wear sturdy, closed shoes for jeep dismounts and short walks
Bring insect repellent (mosquitoes in early morning and evening)
Stay inside vehicles or on marked trails unless told otherwise by the guide
Follow all park regulations — do not feed or approach wildlife
Check tide times when visiting coastal hides; avoid walking on soft mud/shellfish beds
Tips
Bring a pair of binoculars (recommended: 8x–10x) and, if available, a spotting scope for large flocks
Carry a field guide or an offline birding app (many migratory species are seasonal)
Dress in neutral, muted colours and avoid bright clothing
Start early — sunrise hours produce the best bird activity
Hire a local licensed guide to increase species detection and support local conservation
Bring snacks and plenty of water; facilities inside the park are limited
Respect park rules and avoid single-use plastics — Bundala is a sensitive wetland habitat
Keep a notebook or use an app to record sightings; many visitors contribute to citizen-science databases (e.g., eBird)
