Things to do in Anawilundawa Bird Sanctuary
Discover the best attractions and experiences Anawilundawa Bird Sanctuary has to offer
Historic Monuments
Explore remnants of colonial and ancient histories in the Anawilundawa area and its surroundings.
Chilaw Dutch Fort
A compact defensive outpost from the Dutch era with coastal views.
Sri Munneswaram Temple
A historic Hindu temple near Chilaw, renowned for its centuries-old worship and architecture.
Museums
Learn about local culture and history at small-town museums in the area.
Chilaw Museum
Local museum showcasing artifacts and history of Chilaw and its fishing communities.
Puttalam District Museum
Covers the heritage of the Puttalam region with exhibits on culture and nature.
Religious Monuments
Religious sites reflecting Sri Lanka’s diverse spiritual heritage nearby.
Sri Munneswaram Temple
Ancient Hindu temple complex in Munneswaram, a pilgrimage site with vibrant festivals.
St. Mary's Church, Chilaw
Historic Catholic church serving the local coastal community.
National & Theme Parks
Protected wetlands and natural habitats ideal for wildlife watching.
Wilpattu National Park
Sri Lanka’s largest national park, famed for leopards, elephants and diverse ecosystems.
Anawilundawa Bird Sanctuary
Ramsar-listed wetland sanctuary renowned for its migratory birds and mangroves.
Neighborhoods
Explore the coastal towns and local communities around the sanctuary.
Chilaw
Coastal town known for fresh seafood and a relaxed vibe.
Kalpitiya
Gateway to beaches, dolphin watching and wind-based water sports.
Puttalam
Lagoon-side town with markets and gateway to dry-zone landscapes.
Free Things to Do
Low-cost ways to enjoy the wetlands and coast.
Bird watching at Anawilundawa
Stroll through the wetlands to spot local and migratory birds.
Sunrise at the wetlands
Capture the tranquil dawn over the mangroves and lagoons.
Mangrove shoreline walk
Explore the edge of the sanctuary along accessible paths.
Gastronomy
Coastal Sri Lankan flavors and seafood specialties.
Chilaw seafood eateries
Sample fresh prawns, crabs and other seafood caught locally.
Coastal fish curry experience
Try traditional Sri Lankan fish curries with local spices in Chilaw.
Lagoon-side snacks in Chilaw
Snack on light bites while watching the sea and boats.
Nightlife
Relaxed evenings by the coast with casual spots.
Beachfront cafes in Kalpitiya
Casual spots along the shore for sunset drinks.
Chilaw coastal evenings
Low-key markets and sea breeze after-dark strolls.
Entertainment
Seasonal and coastal experiences for visitors.
Dolphin watching from Kalpitiya
Boat trips to spot playful dolphins in the gulf.
Kalpitiya sunset boat trips
Relaxing evening cruises along the Kalpitiya coast.
Sports
Water sports and outdoor activities in the Kalpitiya area.
Kite surfing in Kalpitiya
Coastline winds create ideal conditions for kitesurfing.
Dolphin watching boat trips
Sporty boat rides with a chance to see dolphins.
Off the Track
Unconventional ways to experience the wetlands and coast.
Mangrove kayaking near Anawilundawa
Paddle through calm mangrove channels.
Village life tour in Chilaw region
Interact with local communities and observe daily life.
Sunset photography along the lagoon
Capture the colors as the day ends over the water.