Kumana National Park | Ampara

Kumana National Park is a picturesque and biodiverse national park located in the southeastern region of Sri Lanka. It is renowned for its birdlife, being one of the country’s premier birdwatching destinations, particularly for migratory species. The park, previously known as Yala East National Park, is an important protected area that combines both wetland and dry-zone forest ecosystems. Kumana is part of the larger Yala National Park complex, and it’s a haven for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and photographers.

1. Overview and Location

• Location: Kumana National Park is located in the Southern Province of Sri Lanka, bordered by the Indian Ocean to the southeast. It is located near the town of Ampara, approximately 390 km from Colombo and around 12 km from the well-known Yala National Park.
• Size: The park covers 35,664 hectares (approximately 88,000 acres), with a landscape comprising coastal wetlands, dense forests, and open plains.
• Accessibility: The park is accessible via the Ampara and Pottuvil roads. Visitors usually enter through the Kumana entrance.

2. History and Establishment

• History: Kumana National Park was established as a sanctuary in 1938 and later designated as a national park in 2006. It was formerly known as Yala East, and in 2006 it was separated from the adjacent Yala National Park and named Kumana.
• Conservation Focus: The park was primarily established to protect the Kumana lagoon and surrounding habitats, with a focus on preserving its birdlife and maintaining the health of the wetland ecosystems.

3. Flora and Fauna

Kumana is a biodiversity hotspot, particularly for birds, but also supports a variety of mammals, reptiles, and aquatic species. The park is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with over 200 species recorded.

Flora

• Vegetation: The park features a mixture of dry-zone forests, scrubland, grasslands, and mangrove swamps. The Kumana Lagoon and its surrounding wetlands are significant in terms of both biodiversity and providing a habitat for numerous plant species, particularly aquatic and wetland plants like coconut palms and mangroves.
• The Yodha Wewa reservoir, which lies near the park, is also surrounded by forests and adds to the rich diversity of the area.

Fauna

• Birds: Kumana National Park is famous for its birdlife, and it is especially renowned for its role as a stopover for migratory birds on the East Asia-Australasia flyway. The park is home to over 200 species of birds, including:
  • Painted Storks
  • Lesser adjutant storks
  • Great white pelicans
  • Egrets
  • Herons
  • Sri Lankan grey hornbills
  • Purple herons
  • Migratory species like the barred buttonquail, black-crowned night herons, and sandpipers.
• Mammals: Kumana is also home to several species of mammals, such as:
  • Sri Lankan elephants
  • Leopards
  • Sloth bears
  • Wild boar
  • Spotted deer
  • Monkeys (including the purple-faced langur)
  • Water buffalo
• Reptiles: The park has a variety of reptiles, including monitor lizards, crocodiles, and snakes like the Indian cobra.
• Aquatic Life: The Kumana Lagoon is home to a variety of aquatic life, including fish, crabs, and amphibians.

4. Key Attractions and Activities

Kumana National Park offers numerous attractions and activities that highlight its rich biodiversity and beautiful landscapes.

Birdwatching

• Kumana is one of the best places in Sri Lanka for birdwatching, particularly during the migratory season (from October to April), when thousands of migratory birds arrive at the park’s wetlands.
• Kumana Lagoon is a central attraction, providing an excellent vantage point for birdwatching, especially for species like painted storks, pelicans, and egrets.

Wildlife Safaris

• Jeep safaris are the best way to explore the park. During safaris, visitors have the opportunity to see a variety of animals, including Sri Lankan elephants, leopards, sloth bears, and deer. The Kumana Lagoon, with its calm waters and surrounding wetlands, is a key area for spotting wildlife.

Photography

• The park’s diverse landscapes, abundant wildlife, and birdlife make it an excellent spot for nature photography. The early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for wildlife shots, particularly of birds.

Boat Tours (on Kumana Lagoon)

• Boat tours are available on the Kumana Lagoon to explore the wetland ecosystem and view the birdlife up close. This is a tranquil way to see the birds and other animals, such as crocodiles and water buffalo, in their natural habitat.

Nature Walks

• For those interested in a more intimate experience with nature, guided nature walks are available in the park. These walks allow visitors to explore the park’s forest and wetland areas while learning about the flora and fauna.

5. Best Time to Visit

• The best time to visit Kumana is during the migratory season from October to April, especially for birdwatchers. The dry months offer optimal conditions for spotting wildlife, particularly in the park’s wetlands, which attract many migratory bird species.
• The wet season (May to September) is less popular due to rain, but some wildlife may still be visible.

6. Accessibility and Visitor Information

• By Road: Kumana National Park is accessible by car from Ampara (approximately 30 km away) and Pottuvil (around 15 km away). The road leading to the park is well-maintained, and visitors can reach the park entrance via public transport or private vehicles.
• Accommodation: There are various eco-lodges, guesthouses, and resorts near the park, particularly in Pottuvil and Arugam Bay, which offer a range of accommodation options for all budgets.
• Entrance Fees: The park charges an entrance fee for foreign visitors, along with additional fees for jeep safaris, boat tours, and guides.

7. Conservation Efforts

• Conservation: Kumana National Park is an important conservation area for both migratory and resident birds. The park plays a key role in protecting the wetland ecosystem and preserving wildlife such as Sri Lankan elephants and leopards.
• The park is also involved in efforts to reduce human-wildlife conflict and preserve its wetlands and forest habitats for future generations.

8. Nearby Attractions

• Yala National Park: Located nearby, Yala National Park is one of Sri Lanka’s most famous wildlife destinations, offering opportunities to spot leopards, elephants, and other wildlife.
• Arugam Bay: Located around 12 km from Kumana, Arugam Bay is a popular destination for surfing, beach activities, and enjoying the coastal atmosphere.
• Pottuvil Point: Another nearby coastal destination, Pottuvil Point is ideal for beach lovers and offers a relaxing coastal environment.

9. Conclusion

Kumana National Park offers a diverse range of experiences, from birdwatching and wildlife safaris to exploring the park’s stunning landscapes. As one of Sri Lanka’s top birdwatching destinations, Kumana is an ideal place for nature lovers, photographers, and wildlife enthusiasts to connect with Sri Lanka’s rich biodiversity. Whether you're looking to see migratory birds, observe elephants and leopards, or enjoy the tranquil beauty of the park’s wetlands, Kumana is a must-visit destination in Sri Lanka’s southeastern region.