A place with a story.
Kumana is located in the southeast corner of Sri Lanka.The 18,149-hectare national park (aka ‘Yala East’) is a well-known bird sanctuary where a multitude of birds can be spotted.One of the most significant features of the park is the ‘KumanaVillu’ – a 200-hectare natural swamp lake, fed by the ‘KumbukkanOya’ through a half mile long narrow channel.It is at this mangrove swamp that many water birds nest in May and June.
Almost half of Sri Lanka’s bird species are found here and it serves as a feeding and resting ground for more than 35 species of migratory aquatic bird species. Regular sightings include Pelicans, Painted Storks, Spoonbills, White Ibis, Herons, Egrets and Little Cormorants.
The very rare black-necked stork has also been spotted at the swamp. Besides the prolific birdlife, Kumana is also home to some of the mammals found in the larger Yala National Park (west) such as elephants and leopards. The vegetation in Kumana consists mainly of mangrove trees, kumbuk trees and the karan fern, as well as the open marsh area.
Kumana NP is probably the most secluded but richest in diversity.
As per the legend, a god named Katharagama, worshipped by almost all the communities in Sri Lanka, made his first landing close proximity to the Kumana National Park.
Kumana NP is a place where you have the opportunity to observe a spectacular variety of both migratory and resident birds.
Almost half of Sri Lanka’s bird species are found here and it serves as a feeding and resting ground for more than 35 species of migratory aquatic bird species.
Very rich in leopard and sloth bear populations – two of the flagship mammals in Sri Lanka.
The Kumana National Park is located in close proximity to the surfing capital of Sri Lanka – Arugam Bay.
Possibility to do a full day or a half day safari into the Kumana National Park (full day Safari is highly recommended).
Guidance by an experienced birding guide makes this even more special.
You will first meet up with the Drivers in Sri lanka crew and your designated naturalist at the gate entrance to the Kumana National Park. For the morning half-day tour, the starting time will be at 6 a.m. while the afternoon tour begins at 2.30 p.m
After entering the national park with your naturalist/guide in a jeep, you will be able to spot several species of birds and other animals that have made their homes in this sanctuary. All you see will be professionally interpreted by our naturalist
You will be taken through most of the Kumana National Park, covering the wetlands, grasslands, forest patches, etc. We will make longer stops at certain watering holes for certain photography opportunities
We will stop at a designated spot overlooking a lake where you can get down, stretch your legs and enjoy a cup of tea/coffee prepared by our crew
Finishing the Safari, either round 11 a.m. or around 6 p.m. you will be dropped at the park entrance
