Kumana National Park
Ampara, Eastern
Established in 1970 as an eastern extension of Yala, Kumana is Sri Lanka's premier bird sanctuary, with around 255 species recorded and a Ramsar-listed wetland at its heart. Its centerpiece, Kumana Villu, is a shallow swamp lake that floods seasonally and draws tens of thousands of nesting waterbirds between April and July — painted storks, spoonbills, pelicans, and the rare black-necked stork among them. Elephants, leopards, and crocodiles also move through the park, but it's the sheer volume and variety of birdlife, best experienced from a boat drifting quietly through the mangrove channels, that sets Kumana apart from Sri Lanka's bigger-name safari parks.
Best time to visit
April to July for the peak waterbird nesting season; October to March for migratory waders passing through on the East Asian-Australasian Flyway.
Visitor tip
Wildlife sightings are not guaranteed; follow safari and park regulations.
Local pick
Ask for a boat trip through the narrow mangrove channel into Kumana Villu rather than a standard jeep safari — it's the quietest, closest way to see the nesting colonies.
Quick answers
Where is Kumana National Park?
Kumana National Park is in Ampara, Eastern Province, Sri Lanka.
When is the best time to visit Kumana National Park?
April to July for the peak waterbird nesting season; October to March for migratory waders passing through on the East Asian-Australasian Flyway.
How far is Kumana National Park from Colombo?
About 204 km in a straight line. Road journeys are longer, so check current travel times before you go.
What is near Kumana National Park?
Nearby places include Kudumbigala Monastery (about 14 km away), Yala National Park (about 21 km away).
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