East Coast
Arugam Bay
Arugam Bay is a small town on the south-east coast that has become Sri Lanka's best-known surf destination. Its point breaks draw surfers from around the world during the east-coast season.
Eastern Province
Kumana National Park
Kumana National Park sits on the south-east coast, about an hour from Arugam Bay. It borders Yala, but has far fewer visitors. It's famous for its wetland birdlife, especially around the Kumana Villu, and you may also see elephants, crocodiles and, with luck, leopards. It's the perfect safari if you're surfing in Arugam Bay.
Kumana National Park at a glance
- Region
- South-east, near Arugam Bay
- Best for
- Birds, quiet safaris
- Best time
- The east-coast dry season, roughly April to September
- Time needed
- Half-day or full-day safari
- Getting there
- About 1 hour from Arugam Bay
What you'll see
- Wetland birds: storks, pelicans, herons, ibis and more
- Elephants and crocodiles
- Leopards and sloth bears (rare, but possible)
- Lagoons, beaches and forest
Tips
- Leave early from Arugam Bay for the best wildlife activity.
- Bring binoculars.
- Check for any seasonal closures for your dates; we'll confirm for you.
Check current details before travelling: prices, opening hours, access and seasonal conditions change.
Kumana National Park: frequently asked questions
Kumana or Yala?
Yala has more leopards and more jeeps. Kumana is quieter, with excellent birdlife.
How far is Kumana from Arugam Bay?
About 1 hour by road.
When is the best time to visit Kumana?
The east-coast dry season, roughly April to September.
Can I see leopards in Kumana?
It's possible, but less likely than in Yala.
Nearby destinations
Eastern Province
Gal Oya National Park
Gal Oya National Park in eastern Sri Lanka is known for something rare: boat safaris on the large Senanayake Samudra reservoir, where elephants are sometimes seen swimming between islands. There are also jeep safaris, plenty of birdlife and very few other visitors. It's a great add-on to Arugam Bay or an east coast trip.
South East
Yala National Park
Yala is Sri Lanka's most visited national park, a mosaic of scrub jungle, rocky outcrops, lagoons and coastline in the south-east. It is known for one of the highest leopard densities recorded anywhere, though sightings are never guaranteed.
Plan a trip that includes Kumana National Park
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