Kumana National Park

About Kumana National Park

Kumana National Park is the 6th largest park in Sri Lanka. It consists of 35,664 hectares of land. This was earlier known as Yala East National Park. Park situated in the Ampara District of south-east bend of Sri Lanka. Kumana National Park is well-known place for bird watching in Sri Lanka. Most importantly, out of the 526 bird species recorded in Sri Lanka, you can spot 255 species in Kumana.

You can reach Kumana National Park (391 km from Colombo) via Colombo –Ampara main road. And from Siyambalanduwa junction take the Pottuvil road. Finally, from Panama junction turning right which leads to the entrance of the park.

Location And Geography

Kumana National Park enclosed by the Kumbukkan Oya from south. And Panama from southeast coast. Some 20 lagoons and tanks support the extensive bird life of the national park. The lagoons are shallow with depths less than 2 meters (6.6 ft.). Kumana National Park is well-known for its 200 hectares of mangrove wetland named “Kumana Villu” within the Park. Further, Kumana Villu is subject to occasional flooding with seawater. The elevation of the area ranges from sea level to 90 meters (300 ft). The mean annual temperature is 27.30 °C (81.14 °F). In addition, the area receives 1,300 millimeters (51.18 in) of annual rainfall.

More About Kumana National Park

Kumana Bird Sanctuary, declared in 1938, which includes within the Kumana National Park. During October to April tens of thousands of birds migrate to the swamp area in the park. Rare species such as black-necked stork, lesser adjutant, Eurasian spoonbill, and great thick-knee are breeding inhabitants. Pin-tailed snipes migrate here flying 9,000 kilometers to 11,000 kilometers from Siberia.

Among the rare birds that migrate to the swap are the Yellow-footed Green Pigeon and Greater Racket-tailed Drongo. As well as Malabar trogon, Red-faced Malkoha, and Sirkeer malkoha. Waders belonging to families Scolopacidae and Charadriidae. They are among the visitors to the area along with waterfowl. And also Pacific golden plover, Greater sand plover, Lesser sand plover, Grey plover, Ruddy turnstone, Little ringed plover, Wood sandpiper, Marsh sandpiper, Common redshank, Common sandpiper, Curlew sandpiper, Little stint, Common snipe, and Pin-tail snipe are the common wading birds of the park.

Tilapia and mullet are the commonly fished varieties in the area while Channa spp. is also caught occasionally. Mugger crocodile, Indian flap-shelled turtle and Indian black turtle are the common reptiles inhabiting the park. Also, mammals such as Sri Lankan Leopard, Sloth Bear, golden jackal, wild boar, Sri Lankan elephant, Eurasian otter, and fishing cat also visit the swamp to feed. The number of elephants roaming in the park estimated at 30–40.

In addition, the Kumana area is part of an ancient civilization that goes back to the 3rd century BC. Rock inscriptions belonging to the 2nd and 1st centuries BC has been found in the region. The park lies on the route of the traditional annual foot Pilgrimage to the Hindu temple at Kataragama. Both Tamil and Sinhalese communities take part in this pilgrimage.

Best season

• Northern migrant season, but worth visiting anytime of the year. Park roads can be difficult during North-East monsoon especially in December.

Key factors

• General guided safaris, birding tours and mammal tours will arrange according to your preference.
• Camping is one of our major activities in Kumana National Park.

What we offer

• Qualified and experienced naturalist
• Binoculars, guide books & check lists
• Refreshments and pack lunch (Pack lunch for full day safari)

Camping in Kumana National Park

Kumana National Park is one of the best places to do camping in Sri Lanka. It has some picturesque locations which are ideal for camping in the middle of the jungle. This will be a lifetime experience for you because you’ll be able to spot the animal behaviors very closer.

Available camping options

• One night camping with two safari sessions
• Two nights camping with three safari sessions
• Standard and premium camping options

IMPORTANT FACTORS

• Personal effects for Warm/Windy/Rainy conditions should be carried by clients
• Insect repellent, Sunburn lotion etc. are recommended
• Special dietary requirements should be notified in advance.
• Clients must have good pair of Shoes/boots, leech socks, long sleeve t-shirts and pants…
• The experienced and well-trained guide would take every precaution to ensure the safety and wellbeing of all guests on tour as your safety is our prime concern. However, Paradise Island Safari or its employees do not accept any liability for death, injury or illness of guest while on tour caused by any animal, reptile, insect, and events of nature or any type of accident.