Things to do in Bundala National Park
Discover the best attractions and experiences Bundala National Park has to offer
Historic Monuments
Discover the coastal frontier’s remnants from colonial times and early settlements around Bundala and Hambantota.
Hambantota Fort
A compact 17th-century fortification echoing the Dutch coastal defense era.
Dondra Lighthouse
Sri Lanka’s southernmost lighthouse, a beacon with maritime history and sea views.
Museums
Learn about local heritage and natural history through small regional centers near Bundala.
Hambantota District Museum
Exhibits on local history, culture, and archaeology from the Hambantota area.
Bundala National Park Visitor Center
Interpretive displays about the park’s wetlands, birds, and ecosystems.
Religious Monuments
Explore sacred sites that dot the southern belt around Bundala, Kataragama, and the coast.
Kataragama Temple Complex
A major pilgrimage site with Buddhist, Hindu, and local devotional traditions.
Dondra Temple
A revered temple complex near the southern coast, connected to local rituals.
National & Theme Parks
World-renowned birding and wildlife havens set along the southern coast and hinterland.
Bundala National Park
A renowned Ramsar site with lagoons, migratory birds, and cycling-friendly tracks.
Yala National Park
One of Sri Lanka’s best-known wildlife reserves with diverse landscapes and leopards.
Kumana National Park
Coastal wetlands famous for birdlife and seasonal penguin-like activity during migrations.
Neighborhoods
Explore the towns and fishing hamlets that shape the southern coast’s character.
Hambantota (town)
A growing harbor town with market streets and seaside views.
Tissamaharama
Gateway to Yala and Bundala, with local markets and temples.
Kirinda
Coastal village known for its beach, fishers, and traditional culture.
Free Things to Do
Low-cost ways to enjoy Bundala’s surroundings and southern coast.
Bird-watching at Bundala lagoons
Scan the wetlands for waterfowl and migratory species at no entry fee in many areas.
Sunset stroll along Kirinda Beach
End the day with a tranquil walk along a quiet coastal stretch.
Beachfront wildlife viewing near Ambalantota
Casual wildlife spotting along the coastline and mangroves.
Gastronomy
Seafood-focused Sri Lankan flavors and coastal staples to savor.
Fish ambul thiyal
A tangy, cured fish curry, a southern staple with bold flavors.
Rice & curry with fresh seafood
A platter of coconutty curries featuring local catches.
Pol sambol with hoppers
Coconut sambol served with crisp hoppers for a light bite.
Kokis and kevum (snacks) from coastal vendors
Crunchy fried treats perfect for a quick, savory snack.
Nightlife
Evening atmosphere along the coast with laid-back options.
Stargazing on Bundala’s quiet coast
Clear skies and a tranquil backdrop for night viewing.
Beachside evening strolls in Kirinda
Calm, candlelit walks along the shore after sunset.
Cultural evenings at local lodges
Casual performances of Sri Lankan music and dance in hotels.
Entertainment
Cultural and leisure options that showcase local flavor.
Traditional Sri Lankan dance shows in Hambantota area
Evening demonstrations of Kandyan-adjacent dance forms and drumming.
Local theatre and story-telling evenings
Small-scale performances and folklore sessions at community spaces.
Sports
Active experiences and sporting venues in the region.
Cricket at Hambantota International Cricket Stadium
Attend a match or take a tour of a modern coastal stadium.
Beach volleyball on Tangalle/Kiribath beach
Casual games on the golden shores with a sea breeze.
Jeep safari in Bundala National Park
Guided wildlife drives to spot birds and animals among lagoons.
Off the Track
Undiscovered corners and authentic local experiences off the beaten path.
Village life tour in Hambantota district
Interact with locals, learn palm-frond weaving, and sample village meals.
Boat ride to Bundala lagoons with local fishermen
A simple boat trip to observe water habitats and birds up close.
Fisherman’s hut visit at Kirinda
See traditional nets, boats, and coastal livelihoods firsthand.