This one-of-a-kind wetland refuge combines three separate ecosystems: seawater, manmade cascading freshwater reservoirs created in the 12th century, and mangrove swamps.
Because of the area’s unique biological context, hundreds of bird species, butterflies, amphibians, reptiles, mammals, and a few vulnerable and endemic fish species nest and breed there.
Throughout the year, over 150 species of resident and migratory birds can be observed, including some of the rarest species of cormorants, egrets, storks, and ibis, as well as the pheasant tailed-jacana and the purple swamphen.
The months of October through April are ideal for catching a glimpse of the numerous unique migrating bird species.
The 1397ha sanctuary is one of Sri Lanka’s six RAMSAR Wetlands.
Additional information
Accommodation
Accommodation (within 10km)
- Star Classified hotels- No
- International Chain Hotels- No
- Boutique Hotels- No
- Resorts- No
- Ayurvedic Hotels- No
- Inns/Guest Houses- Yes
- Hostels- No
- Homestays- No
- Eco Hotels- No
* You might still find preferred accommodation in nearby cities.
Distance
Distance from (estimate)
- CMB Airport- 70km (travel time: 1hrs 50min)
- Colombo City- 99km (travel time: 2hrs 20min)
- Sigiriya Rock Fortress- 167km (travel time: 3hrs 30min)
- Anuradhapura Ancient City- 113km (travel time: 2hrs 15min)
- Polonnaruwa Ancient City- 214km (travel time: 4hrs)
- Kandy City- 136km (travel time: 3hrs 10min)
- Galle Dutch Fort- 218km (travel time: 4hrs)
* The time and distance are only given to give you an idea. There are stopovers between the two locations. The cities listed above are some of the most popular tourist attractions in Sri Lanka.
Best Time
Season
- October to April
