The Kokkilai Bird Sanctuary, located along the border of Mullaitivu and Trincomalee Districts, is
one of Sri Lanka’s most stunning wetland reserves.
This sanctuary is a haven for flamingos, pelicans, herons, spoonbills, and hundreds of migratory
birds that arrive each year from across Asia.
With its mangrove forests, lagoons, and salt marshes, Kokkilai is a dream come true for nature
photographers and birdwatchers looking for peaceful, untouched beauty
- Birdwatching 🐦: Spot flamingos 🦩, cormorants, and painted storks 🦢 feeding in the shallow waters 💧👀
- Photography 📸: Capture stunning sunrise 🌅 or sunset 🌇 shots with flocks of birds in flight 🕊️✨
- Boat Ride 🛶: Take a local canoe ride 🚣 for close-up views 👀 of birds 🌿 and mangroves 🌳
- Nature Walks 🚶♀️: Enjoy a peaceful stroll 😌 along the lagoon’s edge 🏞️💚
- Village Life 🎣: Watch local fishermen 👨💼 casting nets 🕸️ near the lagoon ✅🛶
- From Mullaitivu Town: Around 1.5 hours ⏱️ by car 🚗 via A34 road 🛣️🧭
- From Trincomalee: About 2 hours ⏳ by road 🚘💨
- By Car: Parking available 🅿️ near the entrance 📍 or local rest points 😌✅
- Bring binoculars 🔭 and a camera with zoom lens 📸🐦
- Visit early morning 🌅 or late afternoon 🌇 for the best bird activity 👀🕊️
- Carry water 💧 and light snacks 🥪 — no shops inside the sanctuary 🚫🛒
- Respect wildlife 🙏 — stay quiet 🤫 and avoid disturbing the birds 🚫📢
- Combine with Thermabikulam Tank 🏞️ or Alampil Beach 🏖️ for a nature-filled day 🌿🧭
Morning Plan:
- 6:30 AM ⏰ – Arrive at Kokkilai Bird Sanctuary 🦢🏞️📍
- 7:00 AM 🐦 – Begin birdwatching 👀 and photography 📸✨
- 8:30 AM 🚶♀️ – Enjoy a short walk 🌿 or boat ride 🛶 through the mangroves 🌳💚
- 10:00 AM ☕ – Breakfast 🥐 at a nearby village café 🍽️😋
