• 4 Hours Drive
• Max People 7

4 Hours Half Day Bundala Safari Drive From $ 85

Bundala National Park: A Sanctuary of Biodiversity

Bundala National Park is located in the Southern Province of Sri Lanka and its a treasure trove of natural beauty and biodiversity. Spanning over 6,216 hectares, is renowned for its complex network of lagoons, coastal dunes, and diverse habitats that support an array of wildlife species. Bundala National Park was established as a National Park in 1993 and since been recognized as a Ramsar Wetland site and a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, highlighting its global ecological significance.

Geographical and Ecological Significance

Bundala National Park is situated along the southeastern coast of Sri Lanka, approximately 245 kilometers from Colombo. This coastal park is characterized by its unique landscape, which includes brackish lagoons, estuaries, mangroves, and scrublands. The park’s diverse ecosystems are influenced by the fluctuating water levels of its lagoon system, creating a dynamic environment that supports a wide range of flora and fauna.

Flora of Bundala

The vegetation in Bundala National Park is a reflection of its varied habitats. The park is home to several distinct plant communities, including salt-tolerant mangroves, thorny scrublands, and grasslands. Key plant species such as the white mangrove (Avicennia marina), black mangrove (Excoecaria agallocha), and Indian mangrove (Rhizophora mucronata) dominate the mangrove forests, providing crucial breeding grounds for marine life.

Fauna of Bundala

Bundala National Park is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, offering opportunities to observe a plethora of animal species in their natural habitats. The park is particularly famous for its avian diversity, hosting over 200 bird species. During the migratory season, Bundala becomes a refuge for thousands of migratory birds, including the greater flamingo (Phoenicopterus roseus), which arrives in large flocks to feed in the shallow lagoons.

Among the park’s resident bird species are the Sri Lankan junglefowl (Gallus lafayettii), the brown-capped babbler (Pellorneum fuscocapillum), and the endemic lesser adjutant stork (Leptoptilos javanicus). Birdwatchers can also spot raptors such as the brahminy kite (Haliastur indus) and the white-bellied sea eagle (Haliaeetus leucogaster), soaring above the water bodies in search of prey.

In addition to its rich birdlife, Bundala is home to a variety of mammal species, including the iconic Asian elephant (Elephas maximus), which can often be seen wandering through the park’s scrublands and grasslands. The park also provides habitat for the elusive fishing cat (Prionailurus viverrinus), the toque macaque (Macaca sinica), and the Indian pangolin (Manis crassicaudata). The coastal lagoons and estuaries of Bundala support diverse aquatic life, including numerous fish species, crustaceans, and mollusks. Reptiles such as the saltwater crocodile (Crocodylus porosus) and the Indian python (Python molurus) are also inhabitants of this park, contributing to its rich biodiversity.

Conservation Efforts and Challenges

The designation of Bundala National Park as a Ramsar Wetland site and a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve underscores its global ecological importance. These designations aim to protect the park’s unique ecosystems and promote sustainable use of its resources. Conservation efforts in Bundala focus on habitat restoration, anti-poaching measures, and community engagement to ensure the long-term preservation of its biodiversity. Despite these efforts, Bundala faces several conservation challenges. Human activities, including illegal fishing, livestock grazing, and encroachment, pose significant threats to the park’s ecosystems. Pollution from agricultural runoff and plastic waste also impacts the health of the lagoons and the species that depend on them. Climate change, with its associated sea-level rise and altered rainfall patterns, further exacerbates these challenges, affecting the delicate balance of the park’s habitats.

Ecotourism and Education

Bundala National Park offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience its natural wonders through ecotourism. Guided safaris, birdwatching tours, and nature trails allow tourists to explore the park’s diverse landscapes and observe its wildlife up close. The park’s visitor center provides educational exhibits and information about the park’s ecology, conservation efforts, and the importance of wetlands. Sustainable ecotourism in Bundala not only provides economic benefits to local communities but also raises awareness about the need to protect and conserve natural habitats. By fostering a sense of appreciation and responsibility among visitors, ecotourism can play a vital role in the long-term conservation of Bundala National Park.