Sri Lanka: 7 places to see - Kumana Villu wetlands to
Kumana National Park, located on Sri Lanka's East Coast, covers 350 square kilometers and is best accessed from the nearby surf town of Arugam Bay. The park features the Kumana Villu wetlands, recognized as a Ramsar site, where visitors can observe diverse aquatic birds and wildlife including leopards during guided safari jeep tours.
- Distance
- 824.0 km
- Mode
- Places
- Start
- Kumana Villu
- End
- Arugam Bay
- Stops
- 7
- Video author
- travmap
- Updated
Stops on this route
- Kumana Villu — Designated Ramsar wetland site within Kumana National Park, recognized for its abundant aquatic bird population and ecological significance.
- Safari Jeep Requirements — Mandatory vehicle specifications and permits needed for wildlife viewing expeditions in Sri Lankan national parks, ensuring visitor safety and environmental protection.
- Arugam Bay Tourist Hub — Coastal village serving as the main access point for Kumana National Park visits, offering accommodations and services for beach and wildlife enthusiasts.
- Bowatta Galge
- Kumbukkan Oya River — Scenic waterway forming a natural boundary within eastern Sri Lanka's protected zones, supporting diverse wetland ecosystems and birdwatching opportunities.
- Kumana National Park
- Arugam Bay — Coastal surf town and primary tourist hub on Sri Lanka's east coast, closest settlement to Kumana National Park for safari bookings and accommodations.
Useful for your trip
- Transport
- You must hire a safari jeep with a licensed tracker or guide to enter Kumana National Park, unless you pre-booked through an agent.
- Transport
- Book your safari jeep experience from Arugam Bay, the closest tourist hub and settlement to Kumana National Park.
- Timing
- Go for a full day excursion at Kumana National Park rather than half-day, as there is much more to see and do.
- Timing
- Noon time is the warmest part of the day when animals rest and seek shelter, making it ideal for lunch breaks at watering holes.
- Food
- Ask your jeep driver to take you to Kumbukkan Oya River for lunch break, or pack sandwiches and fruits with you to eat there.
- Tip
- Kumana National Park covers 350 square kilometers and features Kumana Villu wetlands recognized as Ramsar wetland sites with diverse aquatic birds.
- Tip
- The park allows walking, which is possible in very few national parks in Sri Lanka, giving a more immersive forest experience.
- Tip
- Tell your jeep driver beforehand that you want to see other wildlife and sites beyond just leopards; read up on locations like Bowatta Galge Cave beforehand.
- Avoid
- Do not litter or use plastic bottles; bring reusable bottles and avoid polluting the environment.
- Tip
- Approximately 20 caves have been detected in the park, with possible over 100 caves existing, many containing ancient inscriptions and artwork dating thousands of years.
- Tip
- An evacuated village settlement exists inside the park from the 1980s with visible ruins including a school building and Buddha statue.
Video on this route
Is Kumana better than Yala national park in Sri Lanka?