Nature6 min readPublished: Updated: (2026/2027 Season)

Kalametiya Bird Sanctuary

Sri Lanka’s oldest bird sanctuary — a tranquil mangrove lagoon ecosystem teeming with over 150 species of resident and migratory birds.

White Villa Goyambokka
White Villa Goyambokka
Local Destination Guide • Tangalle, Sri Lanka
Villa to Destination24 km (30 min drive)
Best Season to VisitNovember – March (Migratory bird season) & Year-round
Transport from White VillaTuk-Tuk • AC Car • Van Available
Villa Guest PerkTakeaway Refreshments & Boat Booking Support

A Serene Mangrove Haven for Nature Lovers

Kalametiya Bird Sanctuary is a coastal wetland ecosystem located between Tangalle and Hambantota. Declared a sanctuary in 1938, it encompasses brackish lagoons, mangrove swamps, reed beds, and coastal scrubland.

The sanctuary is home to over 150 species of birds (including 4 endemic species), 20 species of mammals, and numerous reptiles and amphibians.

Lagoon Boat Excursions

Glide silently through narrow mangrove tunnels aboard traditional wooden rowing boats steered by expert local naturalists.

Spot spot-billed pelicans, painted storks, purple herons, kingfishers, sea eagles, and water monitor lizards along the tranquil water banks.

2026/2027Season & Visiting Guide

Hop aboard a silent unmotorized catamaran boat tour at 6:30 AM in 2026/2027 to spot purple herons, waterhens, kingfishers, and iridescent Asian green bee-eaters gliding above the lotus-covered lagoons.

Distance from White Villa:24 km (30 min drive)
Best Visiting Season:November – March (Migratory bird season) & Year-round

Quiet Boat Safaris

Row silently through untouched mangrove waterways listening to birdsong and observing rich wetland biodiversity.

Insider Visitor Tips

  • Sunrise (6:00 AM) and sunset (4:30 PM) offer peak bird activity.
  • Bring binoculars, camera with zoom lens, and insect repellent.
  • Located 25 minutes from White Villa Tangalle.

Stay at White Villa Goyambokka

Located just 550m (6-minute walk) from Goyambokka Beach, White Villa provides luxury air-conditioned rooms, delicious fresh breakfasts, private pool & jacuzzi, and dedicated transport support (Tuk-tuk & AC Van) for all Tangalle attractions and day tours.

WhatsApp
Call Us