Bundala National Park Travel Guide & Tours | Island Expedition Sri Lanka

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Location Profile

Bundala National Park Details

Declared National Park in 1993 • Southeast Coast

Bundala National Park is one of Sri Lanka’s most important wetland wildlife parks and a paradise for birdwatchers. Located near Hambantota on the southeast coast, the park is famous for its lagoons, migratory birds, flamingos, crocodiles, elephants, and beautiful coastal scenery. It became a national park in 1993 and was the first wetland in Sri Lanka recognized as a Ramsar Wetland of International Importance. UNESCO later declared it a Biosphere Reserve.

Why Bundala is Special

One of the best birdwatching destinations in Sri Lanka, famous for large flocks of migratory flamingos.
Diverse coastal ecosystems containing lagoons, marshes, dunes, and scrub jungle.
One of the few places in Sri Lanka where both Mugger and Saltwater crocodiles live together.

Wildlife Sightings

Common species spotted regularly by our naturalists at this destination.

Greater flamingos Painted storks Pelicans Black-headed ibis Spoonbills Eagles & kingfishers Peacocks Asian elephants Mugger crocodiles Saltwater crocodiles

Total Area 6,216 Hectares

Declared Park 1993

Ramsar Status First Ramsar Site in SL

UNESCO Status Biosphere Reserve

Wildlife Sanctuary Dashboard

Birds (200+ Species)

Internationally famous for migratory water birds, especially from October to March.

Greater flamingos
Painted storks
Pelicans
Black-headed ibis
Spoonbills
Eagles & kingfishers
Peacocks

Mammals

A small population of dry-zone land mammals inhabits the scrub jungle.

Asian elephants
Spotted deer
Wild boar
Grey langurs

Reptiles

Home to both Sri Lankan crocodile species, monitors, and sea turtles.

Mugger crocodiles
Saltwater crocodiles
Monitor lizards
Estuarine Sea Turtles

Safari Experience

Safaris are done by 4x4 jeep. Compared with Yala, the experience is calmer and focuses heavily on nature, wetland scenery, and birdlife.

Morning Birding Safari Evening Lagoon Safari Coastal Wetlands Safari

Best Time to Visit

October to March is the absolute best for migratory birds and flamingos.
May to September is better for elephant sightings during dry weather.
Morning and evening safaris are best because animals are active and weather is cooler.

Nearby Attractions

Yala National Park
Udawalawe National Park
Hambantota Botanical Gardens
Ridiyagama Safari Park

Perfect For

Avian Enthusiasts & Birdwatchers

Wildlife Photographers

Scenic Wetland Safaris

Quiet Eco-tourism

Did You Know?

Bundala was the very first wetland in Sri Lanka to be declared a Ramsar Site—a wetland of international ecological importance. Its saltwater lagoons, dunes, and marshes are critical wintering grounds for migratory birds.

Adventure Opportunities

Available Tours in Bundala National Park

Safari Birders Paradise

Morning Safari Bundala National Park

From $200 USD / Person

Duration: 5.30 am - 10.30 am Group Size: Max 6 Guests Difficulty: Easy

Tour Overview

Track thousands of migratory birds, flamingos, and crocodiles in Sri Lanka’s first Ramsar wetland at sunrise. A spectacular morning birding safari.

What's Included

Free hotel pick up and drop (From Bundala National Park area Hotels)
Private Safari Jeep (Maximum 6 Guests)
Naturalist / Game Ranger guide
Complimentary light Water & Softdrink refreshment pack during the safari
Park Entrance fees included
All applicable taxes

Tiered Group Pricing

Private 4x4 safari jeep rate based on total passengers:

2 Pax USD 200

3 Pax USD 240

4 Pax USD 280

5 Pax USD 320

6 Pax USD 360

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Safari Lagoon Wetlands

Evening Safari Bundala National Park