Bundala National Park

It is a very good park. It could be improved especially off season (November). We had hard time to find a jeep and get the tickets to the park. We were lucky to spot almost all the animals except elephants. Birds watching is just WOW.

I wasn't as enamoured as some. Went to Yala last year at the same time and saw way more animals, even birds. We drove for four hours and didn't see much. Many birds, but none I would say were migratory - none that you see in pictures of the park so perhaps not late enough in the season. There doesn't seem to be any washroom facilities within the park so it was a long four hours. Yala tours cost about the same and we had breakfast included and a nice spot for a break with some info about the tsunami damage and loss. Also, the tour safaris seem to speak together in Yala so you know where to go, plus they fill up jeeps so not to run big vehicles with only one person in them.

Very good place, but before you go, make sure you are going between November and February.

Bundala National Park, located in the Southern Province of Sri Lanka, is a UNESCO-designated biosphere reserve known for its rich biodiversity, especially birdlife. Covering around 6,200 hectares, the park features lagoons, saltpans, and scrub forests, making it a critical wetland habitat. It is famous for hosting large flocks of migratory greater flamingos, along with over 200 bird species. Bundala is also home to elephants, crocodiles, leopards, and a variety of reptiles and amphibians. The park plays a vital role in Sri Lanka’s conservation efforts and offers a peaceful, scenic wildlife experience.

We did the tour with a guide. Early morning is the best to capture these creatures. Take a good camera and lens when you are going for the trip as you would not want to miss out on these amazing clicks.

Much smaller and less visited that nearby Yala but a must visit for bird watchers and nature lovers. We saw a wide selection of birds and wildlife, and some really rare species. Much more relaxed safari with a very helpful guide and spotter with binoculars who joined us. Really enjoyed it, but don’t expect to see leopards here, this one is for the bird lovers.

Amazing place to spot a variety of native and migratory birds. That one day I visited it rained in Hambantota but I managed to spot many birds. I recommend you book a safari before hand. Try Bundala safari with Srimal. He had a very good rating and he was great. He and his brother- in - law helped us spot many birds and animals. I would highly recommend Bundala safari by Srimal.

This park is mostly popular among the bird watchers as it is a good place to observe both forest birds and water birds. It is best to visit during the migratory period and many vagrant birds have been recorded here. It is not a place to observe mammals though. You will not find leopard or sloth bear here. Even spotted deer or Wild Boar is not very commonly seen. In some days Elephants may be there but it is also very rare. You have to enter the park with a Guide provided by the Department of Wildlife. There is a nice view of the lagoon from the ticket counter area.