Bundala National Park
Hambantota, Southern
Bundala became Sri Lanka's first Ramsar-listed wetland of international importance in 1990, three years before it was formally declared a national park, and today it's the best place in the country to see large flocks of greater flamingos, which migrate here from India in the dry season. Beyond the birdlife — around 200 species have been recorded — the park's lagoons, dunes, and scrubland are also home to elephants, crocodiles, and a healthy population of spotted deer. It's quieter and less crowded than Yala, its more famous neighbor just up the coast.
Best time to visit
Dry season, roughly September to March, when migratory flamingos and other water birds are most numerous.
Visitor tip
Early visits can be useful for wildlife viewing; follow park access and safari rules.
Local pick
Ask your driver to prioritize the lagoon areas over the scrubland tracks — that's where the flamingo flocks concentrate, and it's easy to miss if the safari defaults to a standard route.
Quick answers
Where is Bundala National Park?
Bundala National Park is in Hambantota, Southern Province, Sri Lanka.
When is the best time to visit Bundala National Park?
Dry season, roughly September to March, when migratory flamingos and other water birds are most numerous.
How far is Bundala National Park from Colombo?
About 175 km in a straight line. Road journeys are longer, so check current travel times before you go.
What is near Bundala National Park?
Nearby places include Kirinda (about 6 km away), Tissamaharama Raja Maha Vihara (about 9 km away), Yala National Park (about 34 km away).
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