Wildlife & Safaris

Bundala RAMSAR Wetland Birdwatching Safari

Bundala National Park is an internationally acclaimed RAMSAR wetland sanctuary and UNESCO Biosphere Reserve situated on Sri Lanka's southern coast. Its brackish coastal lagoons, salt pans, and scrublands host nearly 200 bird species. During winter months, thousands of migratory shorebirds—including flocks of Greater Flamingos—gather here alongside crocodiles and herds of spotted deer.

Bundala National Park lagoons and coastal wetland birds

Location: Hambantota District, Southern Province
Status: First RAMSAR Wetland in Sri Lanka (1990) & UNESCO Biosphere
Bird Species: 197 species (including nearly 100 waterbird species)
Key Migrant: Greater Flamingo (Phoenicopterus roseus)

Why is Bundala world-renowned for birdwatching?

Positioned at the tip of the Central Asian Flyway, Bundala represents the final southern feeding and wintering ground for millions of exhausted migratory waders travelling thousands of kilometres from Siberia, Scandinavia, and the Himalayas.

Between September and March, the park's four shallow coastal lagoons—Bundala, Embilikala, Malala, and Koholankala—teem with painted storks, spoonbills, spot-billed pelicans, black-tailed godwits, and marsh sandpipers. Large flocks of pink-plumed Greater Flamingos often settle across the salt pans.

What other wildlife inhabits the coastal lagoons?

Beyond its remarkable avian diversity, Bundala is home to both Mugger Crocodiles and massive Saltwater Crocodiles basking on the lagoon sandbanks. Herds of spotted deer and wild boars forage in the thorny scrublands, while small resident elephant clans occasionally move between the inland forests and the freshwater lagoons.

The pristine, wind-carved coastal sand dunes overlooking the Indian Ocean serve as nesting beaches for five species of endangered marine turtles.

Practical tips before you go

A spotting scope or high-magnification binoculars (8x42 or 10x42) enhance shorebird identification.
Morning safaris at dawn provide the best light for bird photography before thermal heat shimmer develops over the lagoons.
Bundala is located just 40 minutes from Yala National Park, making it an ideal half-day safari pairing.
Pack insect repellent and wear light, breathable neutral-toned safari wear.

Frequently asked questions

Are Greater Flamingos seen in Bundala every year?

Flamingos are seasonal migrants whose numbers vary according to water salinity and seasonal rainfall. While large flocks are common in winter months, their exact presence fluctuates annually.

How does Bundala compare to Yala for wildlife?

Bundala focuses on tranquil wetland birdlife, aquatic reptiles, and quiet coastal scenery, offering a peaceful contrast to the high-tempo big-mammal tracking of Yala.