Discover the Untamed Beauty of Kumana National Park
Explore Kumana National Park, a wildlife paradise featuring diverse ecosystems, stunning landscapes, and rich biodiversity in Sri Lanka.
Kumana National Park, located in the southeastern coast of Sri Lanka, is a hidden gem that beckons wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Spanning over 18,000 acres, this national park is renowned for its rich biodiversity, featuring a variety of habitats such as wetlands, scrublands, and forests. As you explore the park, you may encounter an array of wildlife, including elephants, leopards, and a plethora of bird species, making it a popular destination for birdwatchers, particularly during the migratory season when numerous migratory birds flock to the park. The park's unique ecosystem is home to the Kumana Bird Sanctuary, which is famous for its large nesting colonies of waterbirds. Visitors can embark on guided safari tours that offer an up-close experience with the vibrant flora and fauna, ensuring unforgettable wildlife encounters. The best time to visit Kumana is during the dry season, from May to September, when the animals congregate around the waterholes, providing excellent viewing opportunities. Keep your camera ready to capture the breathtaking landscapes, especially during sunrise and sunset when the park is bathed in golden light. In addition to its impressive wildlife, Kumana National Park is steeped in cultural significance, with ancient archaeological sites scattered throughout its expanse. The tranquility of the park offers a perfect backdrop for birdwatching, photography, and enjoying the serenity of nature. Whether you're seeking adventure through jeep safaris or a peaceful retreat in nature, Kumana National Park is an exceptional destination that promises to leave a lasting impression on every traveler.
Local tips
- Visit during the dry season for the best wildlife sightings.
- Book a guided safari tour to enhance your wildlife experience.
- Bring binoculars for birdwatching, as the park is home to many migratory species.
- Carry plenty of water and snacks, as facilities within the park are limited.
- Plan your visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon for cooler temperatures and more active wildlife.
A brief summary to Kumana National Park
- HMF9+5PJ, Okanda, LK
- +94112888585
- Visit website
- Monday 6 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 6 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 6 am-6 pm
- Thursday 6 am-6 pm
- Friday 6 am-6 pm
- Saturday 6 am-6 pm
- Sunday 6 am-6 pm
Getting There
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Car
From Yala National Park, head towards the main entrance road towards Tissamaharama. Follow the signs towards Tissamaharama (approximately 14 km). Once you reach Tissamaharama, look for signs to Okanda. Continue on the A2 road for about 18 km until you reach the junction that leads to Okanda. Follow this road for approximately 6 km until you see the entrance to Kumana National Park on your right. Note that the road may be unpaved in some areas, so take caution while driving.
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Public Transportation
From Yala National Park, you can take a local bus to Tissamaharama. Buses depart regularly from the main bus stop in Yala. The journey will take approximately 30-40 minutes and costs around 50 LKR. Once in Tissamaharama, look for a bus heading towards Okanda. This bus will take about 45 minutes and costs around 60 LKR. Get off at the nearest stop to Kumana National Park and walk about 1 km to the park entrance. Make sure to ask the bus driver or locals for directions to ensure you're on the right track.
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Taxi
For a more comfortable and direct option, consider hiring a taxi from Yala National Park to Kumana National Park. Taxis can be arranged through your hotel or local taxi services. The journey should take about 30 minutes, and the fare is typically around 2,500 LKR. Make sure to confirm the price before starting your journey.
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Guided Tour
Another option is to book a guided tour that includes transportation to Kumana National Park. Many tour operators in Yala National Park offer packages that include a vehicle, a guide, and sometimes lunch. This can be a great way to not only reach Kumana but also learn more about the wildlife and landscape during the journey. Prices vary, so it's advisable to shop around and confirm what's included in the package.
Attractions Nearby to Kumana National Park
- Kumana Birds Informatiom & watching point
- Kumana Old Town
- Kudumbigala Sanctuary
- කුමන කැස්බෑ සංරක්ෂණ මධ්යස්ථානය | Kumana - Turtle Conservation Center
- ඔකන්ද වෙරළ | உகந்தை கடற்கரை | Okanda Beach
- Kudumbigala Monastery Complex
- Kumana National Park Office
- Panama - Kudumbigala Wildlife Sanctuary
- Salambe Lagoon
- Yala Block II
- පානම වැව | Panama Wewa
- Crocodile Lake - Panama
- Yala National Park
- Kumana national park Safari
- Panama crocodile hole
Landmarks nearby to Kumana National Park
- පුරාණ ගොඩනැගිල්ල | one Pillars Of Ancient Building(Yala NP)
- Kumana Safari Priyantha (SPS Nature Tours)
- Arugambay view point
- Arugambay Agenda
- Natabun Chaithya Viharaya
- Mahoora Tented Safari Camps - Yala
- Big Game Camp Yala
- Leopard Safaris Yala
- Muhudu Maha Viharaya
- Yala Safari Camping
- Camp Leopard - Yala Safari Glamping
- Leopard Trails Yala
- Maligawila Buddha Statue
- Lahugala Kitulana National Park
- Jetwing Surf