Excursions
Bundala National Park
Bundala National Park is a significant wintering ground for migratory water birds in Sri Lanka. It is home to 197 bird species, with the greater flamingo being a major highlight, migrating in large flocks. Originally declared a wildlife sanctuary in 1969, it was later upgraded to a national park on January 4, 1993. The park also hosts crocodiles, elephants, and a variety of forest birds, making it a paradise for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.
Tissamaharama
Tissamaharama (Tissa) is a picturesque town where eyes are naturally drawn to its majestic, snowy-white dagoba and the surrounding lush wildlife reserves. Nestled beside a scenic lakeside, Tissa offers a peaceful retreat while serving as the perfect base for exploring the Yala and Bundala National Parks, home to diverse wildlife and breathtaking landscapes.
Yala National Park
Yala National Park is a stunning blend of strict nature reserve and wildlife park, covering nearly 130,000 hectares of forests, grasslands, lagoons, and wetlands. Divided into five blocks, two are open to visitors. Located in southeastern Sri Lanka, along the Indian Ocean, Yala was first declared a wildlife sanctuary in 1900 and later upgraded to a national park in 1938. Once a hunting ground for British elites, it is now a haven for wildlife, boasting 44 mammal species and 215 bird species.
Yala is renowned for having the highest leopard density in the world and is home to majestic elephants, sloth bears, sambars, jackals, spotted deer, peacocks, and crocodiles. The best time to visit is February to July, when low water levels make wildlife sightings more frequent.
Kataragama Sacred City
Kataragama Temple is a sacred temple complex dedicated to Kataragama Deviyo, attracting pilgrims from various faiths, including Buddhists, Hindus, Muslims, and the indigenous Vedda people. The site consists of several modest shrines, with the most prominent one honoring Kataragama Deviyo. Nearby, the historic Kiri Vehera is managed by Buddhists, while other shrines are dedicated to Teyvāai, Shiva, and Islamic mosques.
Kataragama is one of Sri Lanka’s most significant pilgrimage destinations, drawing thousands of devotees, especially during the grand Kataragama Perahera in July and August, a vibrant festival filled with religious processions and traditional rituals