Bundala – the first RAMSAR site

If you are serious about birding, #Bundala is one place you cannot afford to miss.

Tucked away in the deep south of Sri Lanka lies a narrow strip of jungle and wetland that holds immense ecological significance. This remarkable area serves as a vital wintering ground for migratory waterbirds arriving from across the globe. It proudly holds the distinction of being Sri Lanka’s very first RAMSAR site, recognised internationally for its importance to wetland conservation. In addition to its status as a National Park, it has also been designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve—a testament to its unique biodiversity and global environmental value.

Located in the southeast of Sri Lanka, the park is about a 4–5 hour drive from Colombo. It opens to visitors at 6:00 AM, and entry requires the company of an official park guide. Thanks to its proximity to Hambantota and Tissamaharama, there’s no shortage of accommodation options for travellers. On my most recent visit, I drove from Kirinda to Bundala in the early morning hours. The journey was already memorable when I encountered elephants casually crossing the road—a thrilling and humbling experience to start the day.

Bundala National Park encompasses a range of diverse habitats, but these can primarily be grouped into three distinct ecological zones: the lagoons and wetlands, the arid terrestrial areas dominated by dry thorny shrubs, and the expansive salt flats. Each of these habitats supports a unique array of wildlife, especially birdlife. An impressive 197 bird species have been recorded within the park's boundaries. However, the diversity you’ll encounter varies significantly with the seasons, making each visit a different experience depending on the time of year.

One of the most extraordinary moments in my bird photography journey so far was witnessing the incredibly rare Black-capped Kingfisher perched regally on a branch—already a thrilling sight. But then, as if nature wanted to add a touch of magic, a vibrant Common Kingfisher flew in and settled on the very same branch, right beside its larger, rarer cousin. To see these two strikingly beautiful birds side by side, completely by chance, was a breathtaking and rare encounter—one I’ll never forget.

Lagoons and Salt Flats

Without a doubt, water birds are the main highlight of Bundala National Park, drawing birders and nature lovers from around the world. However, in recent years, the park has faced a growing ecological challenge. Increased release of freshwater into the naturally saline lagoons has been altering the delicate balance of the ecosystem, significantly reducing the salinity levels. This shift has been identified as a key reason for the noticeable decline in certain bird species that traditionally visited the park. Among the most impacted are the iconic Greater Flamingos, once the symbol of Bundala’s rich avian life. Their dwindling presence is a sobering reminder of how even subtle environmental changes can ripple through an entire habitat.

Early morning sun provides ideal lighting for photographing these beauties, and the park roads cover wetlands very well.

Although the best time to visit is during winter months in the northern hemisphere (November to March), there are 139 resident bird species recorded in Bundala, which means one can visit all year round and still see Sri Lankan birdlife in all its glory.

The grasslands that border the small water tanks are a haven for a wide variety of bird species. These open spaces, interspersed with dense grass bushes, create the perfect cover for birds to forage, rest, and remain concealed. To the untrained eye, the landscape may seem still, but with a patient gaze and a bit of quiet observation, you’ll notice subtle movements. Many birds blend seamlessly into the tall grass, their plumage perfectly matching the golden-brown hues, making it surprisingly easy for them to vanish from sight.

One will come across other wildlife within the park and get great opportunities to take some fabulous photographs.

Terrestrial Habitat with mostly dry Thorny Shrubs

The narrow stretch of Palu tree forest growing atop the dunes east of Bundala village is a unique ecosystem. Once a dominant habitat across the arid southern coast, this coastal dry forest is now under serious threat. Two aggressive invasive alien species, Prosopis juliflora and Opuntia dillenii, have begun to take hold, gradually outcompeting native vegetation. As these invaders spread unchecked, the delicate balance of this rare forest is being disrupted, putting at risk not only the Palu trees but the entire web of life that depends on them.

There are many beautiful bird species, including different types of birds of prey, that can be observed in this habitat.

Once the sun goes down, that's when the Nightjars come out. If you are careful, you can see them under your vehicle's headlights and take a decent photograph.

Other Attractions

The ancient dunes, sculpted over thousands of years by wind and time, are one of Bundala’s hidden treasures. Reaching them requires a sturdy 4x4 vehicle, as the soft, shifting sands can be challenging to traverse. But the effort is richly rewarded. Once atop the dunes, you’re treated to a sweeping panorama—on one side, the vast, shimmering expanse of the Indian Ocean; on the other, the wild, untamed beauty of Bundala National Park stretching out before you. It’s a place of quiet grandeur, where nature’s scale and solitude come together in perfect harmony.

All in all, Bundala is a true national treasure, rich in biodiversity and teeming with a stunning array of plant and animal life. Its coastal lagoons, particularly vital as a stopover for migratory waterbirds, serve as an invaluable sanctuary. However, the delicate balance of this ecosystem is under constant threat from human activity. To preserve its unique charm and the thriving populations of migratory birds, Bundala requires thoughtful protection and careful conservation efforts. If these efforts are sustained, the park will continue to draw large flocks of migrants, offering a much-needed haven on the edge of beautiful Sri Lanka.