Bundala national park is one of the best places in Sri Lanka for bird watching. More than 197 birds are so far recorded inside the park, among which 58 are migratory birds. Some of the other wildlife seen frequently at Bundala national park are the Sri Lankan elephant, toque macaque, tufted grey langur, Sri Lankan leopard, golden jackal, ruddy mongoose, spotted deer, rusty spotted cat, mouse deer, Indian pangolin, estuarine crocodile and mugger crocodiles. It is listed as an important international Ramsar wetland. Furthermore, UNESCO identifies Bundala as a Man & Biosphere reserve. The site is also an important bird area (IBA) chosen by Birdlife International. Close proximity to Yala national park makes Bundala a perfect extension to an excellent safari experience.
Bundala Map
Safari Information
Bundala National Park Opening and Closing Times – 6.00 a.m to 6.00 p.m
Bundala Safari Duration – 3 hours (Extended safaris, full day safaris, and birdwatching safaris can be arranged.)
Major eco-systems inside Bundala National Park
- Dry Mixed Evergreen Forests
- Dry Thorny Scrublands
- Riverine Forests
- Maritime Grasslands
- Sea Shores and Sand Dunes
- Brackish Lagoons
- Salt Marshes
- Mangroves
Area in Bundala National Park
Total Area – 3,339.38 hectares
Other informations about Bundala National Park
Status – National Park, Ramsar Wetland of International Importance, UNESCO Man and Biosphere Reserve, Important Bird Area (IBA)
Altitude – Sea level to 20 metres
Annual Rainfall – 900-1300 mm
Annual temperature – 270C
Closest Towns – Hambantota, Tissamaharama, Wirawila, Kirinda
Nearest Hospital – Debarawewa Base Hospital
Access Roads to Bundala National Park
- Colombo to Bundala via Galle (250 km)
- Galle to Bundala via Hambantota (142 km)
- Nuwara eliya to Bundala via Ella (151 km)
- Tissamaharama to Bundala (19 km)
Major Attractions of Bundala Safari – Aquatic birds, Migratory birds, Sri Lankan Elephant, Fresh water crocodiles, Marine turtle nesting season
Best time to visit Bundala National Park – September to March
Useful Tips for Bundala Safari Drive
- It will be hot as the sun get up. Bundala is located in a dry zone. Mean temperature is 270C and average humidity is 80% which is relatively low in Sri Lanka. It is best to start early or late in to the afternoon when the sun is not directly up above you.
- It will be sunny. It’s right next to the beach as well. Don’t forget to wear sunscreen.
- Take enough bottled water. Don’t forget to stay hydrated.
- Take care of yourself and others. Never get out of your safari jeep unless permitted by your tracker. There are records of wild elephant attacks when safari jeeps got too close. Always remember that you are in the wild.