Kudumbigala Sanctuary: A Tranquil Escape into Nature

Discover the serene beauty of Kudumbigala Sanctuary, a tranquil retreat rich in natural wonders and ancient Buddhist heritage in the heart of Sri Lanka.

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Sri Lanka
Ampara District
Kudumbigala Sanctuary

Nestled in the serene landscapes of Okanda, Kudumbigala Sanctuary is a hidden gem for nature lovers and spiritual seekers alike. With its stunning vistas, ancient ruins, and rich biodiversity, this sanctuary offers a peaceful retreat away from the bustle of city life. Visitors can explore the beautiful trails, admire the lush surroundings, and find solace in the remnants of ancient Buddhist monasteries.

A brief summary to Kudumbigala Sanctuary

JPXF+5HQ, Okanda, LK

Local tips

Pack plenty of water and snacks, as there are limited facilities within the sanctuary.
Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat and enjoy the best light for photography.
Wear comfortable hiking shoes and be prepared for uneven terrain while exploring the trails.
Respect the local wildlife and maintain a safe distance from animals you encounter.
Consider hiring a local guide to enrich your experience with insights about the history and ecology of the sanctuary.

Getting There

Car

If you're driving, start from Ampara town and head east on A4 road towards Okanda. After approximately 30 km, you will reach a junction. Take the left turn onto the road leading towards Okanda. Continue for about 5 km until you see a sign for Kudumbigala Sanctuary. Follow the sign and take the dirt road that leads to the sanctuary entrance. Please note that the last part of the journey may involve unpaved roads, so drive carefully.
Public Transportation

To reach Kudumbigala Sanctuary via public transport, catch a bus from Ampara town heading towards Okanda. The bus ride will take about 1 hour and costs around LKR 50-100. Once you arrive at Okanda, you can either take a tuk-tuk (which will cost approximately LKR 500-700) or walk the remaining 5 km to reach the sanctuary. Be sure to ask the driver to drop you off near the sanctuary entrance.
Tuk-Tuk

If you prefer a more direct route, you can hire a tuk-tuk from Ampara town to Kudumbigala Sanctuary. The journey will take about 45 minutes to 1 hour and will cost approximately LKR 1500-2000. Ensure to agree on the fare before starting your trip.

Discover more about Kudumbigala Sanctuary

Kudumbigala Sanctuary is a breathtaking natural park located in Okanda, Sri Lanka, renowned for its unique blend of spiritual heritage and stunning natural landscapes. This hidden oasis is not only a haven for wildlife enthusiasts but also a significant site for those interested in Sri Lankan history and Buddhism. The sanctuary is characterized by its rolling hills, dense forests, and rocky outcrops, which create a picturesque setting that captivates visitors from the moment they arrive. The serene atmosphere is ideal for relaxation, meditation, or a leisurely hike, allowing you to immerse yourself in the beauty of nature. As you explore the sanctuary, you'll encounter ancient rock-cut caves and the remnants of Buddhist monasteries that date back centuries. These historical sites serve as a reminder of the rich cultural heritage of Sri Lanka and offer a glimpse into the spiritual practices of the past. Many visitors find peace and tranquility here, making it a perfect spot for reflection and introspection. Wildlife is abundant in the sanctuary, with various species of birds, butterflies, and even monkeys making it their home, providing an excellent opportunity for birdwatching and photography. The sanctuary is also a popular destination for those seeking adventure, with numerous trails winding through the lush greenery. Whether you are hiking to the summit for panoramic views or strolling along the quieter paths, every step reveals the sanctuary's natural beauty. Kudumbigala Sanctuary is a must-visit location for anyone looking to experience the peaceful side of Sri Lanka while still being surrounded by the wonders of nature and history.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Kumana Safari Priyantha (SPS Nature Tours)

15.2 km

Explore the serene beauty of Kumana Safari, where diverse wildlife meets tranquil landscapes in a captivating Sri Lankan adventure.

Kumana Safari Priyantha (SPS Nature Tours)

Arugambay view point

24.8 km

Discover stunning ocean views and serene landscapes at Arugambay View Point, a picturesque destination in Sri Lanka's charming Arugam Bay.

Arugambay Agenda

25.0 km

Explore the heart of Arugam Bay with Arugambay Agenda, your ultimate travel companion for surf, wildlife, and adventure in Sri Lanka.

Natabun Chaithya Viharaya

27.2 km

Experience peace and spiritual heritage at Natabun Chaithya Viharaya, a stunning Buddhist temple in Sri Lanka immersed in tranquility.

Jetwing Surf

28.9 km

Experience coastal luxury at Jetwing Surf, where breathtaking views, vibrant local culture, and exceptional service await in Pottuvil, Sri Lanka.

Tharulengala Aranya Senasanaya (Karadahela Viharaya-කරදහෙළ විහාරය)

32.1 km

Experience tranquility and spiritual reflection at Tharulengala Aranya Senasanaya, a serene Buddhist temple nestled in the lush landscapes of Hulanuge, Sri Lanka.

Tharulengala Aranya Senasanaya (Karadahela Viharaya-කරදහෙළ විහාරය)

පුරාණ ගොඩනැගිල්ල | one Pillars Of Ancient Building(Yala NP)

35.1 km

Discover the enchanting Pillars of Ancient Building in Yala National Park, a mesmerizing historical landmark surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty.

පුරාණ ගොඩනැගිල්ල | one Pillars Of Ancient Building(Yala NP)

සිතුල්පව්ව රජ මහා විහාරය / Sithulpawwa Rajamaha Viharaya

41.8 km

Discover the tranquility of Sithulpawwa Rajamaha Viharaya, an ancient Buddhist temple steeped in history and nestled in Sri Lanka's lush landscapes.

සිතුල්පව්ව රජ මහා විහාරය / Sithulpawwa Rajamaha Viharaya

Maligawila Buddha Statue

42.0 km

Explore the majestic Maligawila Buddha Statue, a historical landmark that embodies the essence of Sri Lankan culture and spirituality.

Maragala mountain view point (siripathula)

43.7 km

Discover stunning landscapes and serene hiking trails at Maragala Mountain View Point in Monaragala, a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts.

Maragala mountain view point (siripathula)

සංගමන්කන්ද / Sangamankanda

43.9 km

Explore Sangamankanda, an enchanting archaeological site in Sri Lanka's Eastern Province, rich in history and breathtaking coastal views.

Yala National Park - Katagamuwa Entrance

44.8 km

Explore Yala National Park - a wildlife haven in Sri Lanka, where adventure and nature come together in perfect harmony.

Yala National Park - Katagamuwa Entrance

Siripathula Mountain, Moneragala

45.0 km

Explore the breathtaking beauty of Siripathula Mountain in Moneragala, a perfect hiking destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Sangamankanda Lighthouse

45.3 km

Discover the breathtaking views and maritime history at Sangamankanda Lighthouse, the easternmost point of Sri Lanka, where land meets the sea.

Galabedda Archiological Site

46.8 km

Explore Galabedda Archaeological Site, a historical gem in Monaragala, Sri Lanka, and uncover the secrets of the island's ancient civilizations.

Unmissable attractions to see

Kudumbigala Monastery Complex

3.4 km

Explore Kudumbigala Monastery Complex: A serene Buddhist temple offering deep spiritual connections and stunning natural landscapes in Okanda, Sri Lanka.

Kumana National Park Office

5.1 km

Discover the stunning landscapes and rich wildlife of Kumana National Park, a true paradise for nature lovers in Sri Lanka.

ඔකන්ද වෙරළ | உகந்தை கடற்கரை | Okanda Beach

5.6 km

Explore the unspoiled beauty of Okanda Beach, a serene coastal paradise in Sri Lanka perfect for relaxation and adventure.

ඔකන්ද වෙරළ | உகந்தை கடற்கரை | Okanda Beach

කුමන කැස්බෑ සංරක්ෂණ මධ්‍යස්ථානය | Kumana - Turtle Conservation Center

5.7 km

Discover the beauty of marine conservation at Kumana Turtle Conservation Center, a wildlife sanctuary dedicated to the protection of sea turtles in Sri Lanka.

කුමන කැස්බෑ සංරක්ෂණ මධ්‍යස්ථානය | Kumana - Turtle Conservation Center

Panama - Kudumbigala Wildlife Sanctuary

10.2 km

Discover the captivating wildlife and serene landscapes of Kudumbigala Wildlife Sanctuary, a must-visit destination for nature lovers in Panama, Sri Lanka.

Kumana National Park

10.3 km

Explore Kumana National Park, a wildlife paradise featuring diverse ecosystems, stunning landscapes, and rich biodiversity in Sri Lanka.

Salambe Lagoon

11.1 km

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Salambe Lagoon in Panama, a serene tourist attraction perfect for nature lovers and peaceful retreats.

පානම වැව | Panama Wewa

13.0 km

Explore Panama Wewa, a stunning natural lake in Sri Lanka, famous for its crocodile sightings and serene landscapes perfect for relaxation and adventure.

Kumana Birds Informatiom & watching point

13.4 km

Explore the vibrant avian life at Kumana Birds Information & Watching Point, a premier bird watching destination in Sri Lanka's lush landscapes.

Kumana Birds Informatiom & watching point

Crocodile Lake - Panama

14.1 km

Discover the stunning biodiversity and tranquil beauty of Crocodile Lake in Panama, home to crocodiles, monkeys, and vibrant birdlife.

Kumana Old Town

14.7 km

Discover the charm and heritage of Kumana Old Town, a historical landmark offering insight into Sri Lanka's rich culture and history.

Kumana national park Safari

15.2 km

Discover the breathtaking wildlife and stunning landscapes of Kumana National Park, a premier destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers in Sri Lanka.

Panama crocodile hole

15.2 km

Discover the Panama Crocodile Hole, a thrilling attraction showcasing majestic crocodiles in their natural habitat amidst stunning Panamanian scenery.

Panama Beach Watch Point

15.4 km

Experience the serene beauty of Panama Beach Watch Point, a hidden gem in Sri Lanka offering stunning ocean views and tranquility.

Panama Lagoon

17.1 km

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Panama Lagoon, a serene oasis perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

Essential places to dine

Hideout Lounge Arugambay

Discover authentic Sri Lankan seafood at Mr. Fisherman in Arugam Bay—where fresh catches meet stunning ocean views.

Bay view restaurant

24.7 km

Experience delightful culinary offerings with stunning ocean views at Arugam Bay's charming Bay View Restaurant.

Serendib Arugambay

24.7 km

Experience authentic Sri Lankan cuisine at Serendib Arugambay - where every dish tells a story of flavor and tradition.

Discover unique gifts and trendy clothing at Hideaway Savvy, Arugam Bay's charming shop for a taste of Sri Lankan culture.

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Arugambay Bar

23.9 km

Discover the charm of Arugambay Bar, a vibrant coastal hotspot in Arugam Bay, perfect for relaxation and socializing with stunning ocean views.

Soul Bar

Discover the vibrant atmosphere and exquisite flavors at 7Heaven, the premier bar in Arugam Bay, Sri Lanka.

King Coconut & fresh cool bar

24.8 km

Experience the refreshing taste of tropical drinks at King Coconut & Fresh Cool Bar in Arugam Bay, a perfect retreat for beach lovers.

OceanSky

25.5 km

Discover the serene charm of OceanSky, a beachfront bar in Arugam Bay where relaxation meets stunning coastal views.

Funky Monkey Arugambay

26.0 km

Discover the vibrant energy of Funky Monkey Arugambay, where delicious drinks meet stunning beach views in a lively atmosphere.

King coconut fresh juice bar

26.5 km

Experience the refreshing taste of Sri Lanka at King Coconut Fresh Juice Bar, where every sip is a tropical delight.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide

Discover Kudumbigala Sanctuary with Evendo, a 100% free app-based travel guide. Explore attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and more with ease and convenience.

Kudumbigala Sanctuary: A Tranquil Escape into Nature

A brief summary to Kudumbigala Sanctuary

Local tips

Getting There

Car

Public Transportation

Tuk-Tuk

Unlock the Best of Kudumbigala Sanctuary

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Kudumbigala Sanctuary

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Kumana Safari Priyantha (SPS Nature Tours)

Arugambay view point

Arugambay Agenda

Natabun Chaithya Viharaya

Jetwing Surf

Tharulengala Aranya Senasanaya (Karadahela Viharaya-කරදහෙළ විහාරය)

පුරාණ ගොඩනැගිල්ල | one Pillars Of Ancient Building(Yala NP)

සිතුල්පව්ව රජ මහා විහාරය / Sithulpawwa Rajamaha Viharaya

Maligawila Buddha Statue

Maragala mountain view point (siripathula)

සංගමන්කන්ද / Sangamankanda

Yala National Park - Katagamuwa Entrance

Siripathula Mountain, Moneragala

Sangamankanda Lighthouse

Galabedda Archiological Site

Unmissable attractions to see

Kudumbigala Monastery Complex

Kumana National Park Office

ඔකන්ද වෙරළ | உகந்தை கடற்கரை | Okanda Beach

කුමන කැස්බෑ සංරක්ෂණ මධ්‍යස්ථානය | Kumana - Turtle Conservation Center

Panama - Kudumbigala Wildlife Sanctuary

Kumana National Park

Salambe Lagoon

පානම වැව | Panama Wewa

Kumana Birds Informatiom & watching point

Crocodile Lake - Panama

Kumana Old Town

Kumana national park Safari

Panama crocodile hole

Panama Beach Watch Point

Panama Lagoon

Essential places to dine

Hideout Lounge Arugambay

Sadew Restaurant (Concrete Place)

Swell Cafe

Samanthi's Restaurant Arugambay

Buffet Arugambay

Chimichanga Restaurant

Flo Restaurant

Perera Restaurant

Top Rest

Hakeem's Beach Spot

Food Point Restaurant

The Sketch

Mr Fisherman

Bay view restaurant

Serendib Arugambay

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Sky Shop

MELLOW / MAH ROC Concept Store

Roshan Grocery store

Isthuthi Craft & Gift

Showroom Pako | Kellla

Surfzilla surfshop

Slow Days

A Bay Surf Shop

Brandis Arugambay

Forcus Lingerie

Kurulu surf shop

Oyanna Boutique

Rice & Carry Shop Arugam Bay

Home Needs Supermarket

Hideaway Savvy

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Arugambay Bar

Soul Bar

Subashi beer pub and Restaurant