Despite an absence of national parks, Sri Lanka’s west coast offers travellers several activities if they want to explore the wildlife in Sri Lanka. One of the most unique wildlife experiences in this region is canoeing down the Kalu Ganga in Bentota, a wide river with a slow current which is shrouded on either side my thick mangroves which house a wide variety of birds, as well as a range of other creatures including lizards, snakes, bats, monkeys and dragonflies.
Another wildlife experience in this region which takes you away from the typical tourist trail is visiting Donanduwa Island, a tranquil island hermitage situated off Hikkaduwa. The island is rich in birdlife, but tourists need to get written permission to visit in advance of their trip. Paradise for birdwatchers.
One of the wildlife highlights here is watching the five species of marine turtles in Sri Lanka coming ashore to lay their eggs on the beaches at night. You can also see hatchlings being born and navigating their way clumsily back to the ocean. Observing these endangered creatures is a magical experience.
Sri Lanka’s marine life can also be seen on a whale and dolphin watching excursion. Watch lively pods of Spinner Dolphin spiralling next to the boat as you search for majestic whales moving through the water. Both Blue Whale and Humpback Whale can be seen around Sri Lanka.
Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery
Kosgoda, West Coast
Of the seven species of marine turtles, five come ashore to nest in Sri Lanka and the Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery which primary operates as a hatchery, is a great place to observe collected and rescued eggs hatch.
Duration: 1 hour
Best time: Year-round
