Location of Bundala National Park
Bundala National Park, located in the Hambantota District of Southern Sri Lanka, is the island’s first UNESCO-designated Biosphere Reserve and an internationally recognized Ramsar Wetland.
Famous for its massive bird populations, especially migratory flamingos, the park is a harmonious blend of:
• Lagoons
• Salt pans
• Coastal dunes
• Dry scrub forests
Bundala is less crowded than nearby Yala, making it a peaceful and intimate safari destination for bird watchers, wildlife lovers, and eco-tourism travelers exploring southern Sri Lanka.
How to Reach Bundala National Park
By Road (Bus / Taxi / Car)
Reaching Bundala National Park is easy via the southern highway network.
• From Colombo: Approximately 245 km (4.5–5 hours)
• From Galle: About 160 km (2.5–3 hours)
• From Hambantota: Only 15–20 minutes
• Frequent buses operate to Hambantota, with tuk-tuks available to the park entrance.
By Train
Take the coastal railway line to Matara or Beliatta, then hire a taxi to Bundala National Park. This is a scenic and affordable option for travelers who enjoy railway journeys.
By Air
Luxury travelers can book domestic flights to Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport (MRIA), just 35 minutes from Bundala.
Top Attractions in Bundala National Park
Bird Watching Paradise
Bundala is Sri Lanka’s number one bird-watching destination, hosting over 200 species of resident and migratory birds.
During peak season, thousands of flamingos paint the lagoons pink — a breathtaking sight for photographers and nature lovers.
Elephant Sightings
Although less dense than Yala or Udawalawe, Bundala offers frequent sightings of small elephant herds, especially in the late afternoon.
Crocodiles & Reptiles
The park is famous for both Mugger and Saltwater crocodiles, often seen sunbathing along lagoon banks.
Scenic Salt Pans & Lagoons
The sprawling Bundala and Embilikala Lagoons, along with the Hambantota Salt Pans, create a stunning landscape where wildlife thrives.
This region is a photographer’s dream during golden hour.
Diverse Wildlife
Aside from birds, Bundala is home to:
• Spotted deer
• Wild boar
• Monkeys
• Monitor lizards
• Turtles
• Over 50 species of butterflies
Coastal Dune Belt & Beaches
The park’s untouched coastline offers dramatic views of the Indian Ocean and is a tranquil escape for quiet explorers.
Best Time to Visit Bundala National Park
The weather heavily influences bird migration, wildlife sightings, and photography conditions.
December to April (Peak Season – Best Time)
• Ideal for migratory birds, especially flamingos.
• Clear skies & pleasant temperatures.
• Best for full Bundala safari experience.
May, June, September
• Shoulder months with fewer crowds.
• Good for photography and peaceful safaris.
July–October
• Wetter months, but Bundala still remains open.
• Lagoons fill up, attracting unique bird species.
Best for Bird Watching:
December – March, when thousands of birds migrate from northern Asia.
Visitor & Safari Travel Tips
• Best time for safari: 6–9 AM or 3–6 PM
• Wear light, breathable clothing suitable for warm climates.
• Bring binoculars for bird watching.
• Carry sunscreen, hats, and plenty of water.
• Avoid loud noises to increase wildlife sighting chances.
• Hire a certified safari guide for richer wildlife insights.
• Bundala is ideal for photographers, so bring long lenses (200–600mm).
• Combine your trip with nearby Yala, Kataragama, Tangalle, or Hambantota attractions.
Why Visit Bundala National Park in 2026?
In 2026, eco-tourism and wildlife travel trends continue to rise globally. Bundala stands out as:
• Sri Lanka’s best bird-watching park,
• A less crowded alternative to Yala,
• A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve,
• A perfect destination for safari lovers, photographers, and families.
Whether you’re traveling from the UK, Europe, USA, or the Middle East, Bundala offers a rich and peaceful wildlife experience that blends nature, conservation, and tropical beauty.
Conclusion
Bundala National Park is a treasure for wildlife enthusiasts seeking tranquility, birds, and natural landscapes. From thousands of flamingos to elephants, crocodiles, butterflies, and serene lagoons, Bundala delivers one of the most inspiring safari experiences in Sri Lanka.
Plan your wildlife adventure in 2025 and include Bundala National Park, Yala, Kataragama, and the golden beaches of the South Coast for an unforgettable journey into Sri Lanka’s natural world.
Hotels Near Bundala National Park (3–5 Star Rated)
Here are some of the best-rated hotels and safari lodges near Bundala:
• Shangri-La’s Hambantota Golf Resort & Spa (★★★★★) – Luxury beachfront escape with world-class amenities.
• Cinnamon Wild Yala (★★★★) – Popular wildlife lodge with stunning lake and forest views.
• Jetwing Yala (★★★★★) – High-end eco-luxury resort near Yala and Bundala.
• EKHO Safari Tissa (★★★★) – Beautiful lakefront hotel ideal for Bundala and Yala visitors.
• Chaarya Resort & Spa Tissamaharama (★★★) – Peaceful resort with pool and modern comforts.
• Tamarind Lake by Amaya (★★★★) – Scenic lakeside stay close to Tissamaharama.
• Kithala Resort (★★★) – A nature-friendly hotel surrounded by paddy fields.
• Lake Wind Hotel (★★★) – Comfortable budget-friendly stay near Tissa Lake.
• Lavish Retreat Bundala (★★★) – Eco-friendly accommodation close to the park.
• Flamingo Cottage Bundala (★★★) – Ideal for bird watchers visiting Bundala lagoons.