Tucked between the coastal towns of Puttalam and Marawila, the Mundal Lagoon (also known as
Mundalama Lagoon) is one of Sri Lanka’s most peaceful and picturesque wetlands.
This tranquil body of water stretches along the western coast, surrounded by lush mangroves, coconut
palms, and fishing villages. It’s a paradise for birdwatchers, nature lovers, and photographers seeking
calm moments away from crowded tourist spots.
Whether you’re visiting for a scenic boat ride, to capture a fiery sunset, or simply to enjoy the rhythm of
lagoon life, Mundal Lagoon offers a perfect balance of nature and local culture.
The Beauty of Mundal Lagoon
The lagoon covers an area of about 3,000 hectares, connecting to the sea through narrow channels.
It supports rich biodiversity — including herons, cormorants, pelicans, egrets, kingfishers, and even
flamingos during certain seasons. The surrounding mangrove forests play a vital role in protecting
coastal ecosystems and supporting local fisheries.
Fishing boats dot the calm waters, while villagers harvest prawns and crabs — giving you an authentic
glimpse into Sri Lanka’s lagoon lifestyle.
- Birdwatching 🐦🦢: Spot migratory ✈️ and resident species 🏡, especially during December–April 🗓️👀
- Boat Rides 🛶⛵: Hire a local fisherman’s boat 🚤 for a scenic lagoon tour 🌊🏞️
- Photography 📸: Capture reflections ✨ of palms 🌴 and fishing canoes 🎣 against the calm water 💧😌
- Mangrove Walks 🌳🚶♀️: Explore the unique coastal ecosystem 🌿 that shelters fish 🐠 and crabs 🦀🔍
- Village Life 🏡🤝: Visit nearby fishing communities 🎣 and learn about traditional prawn farming 🦐💡
- Sunset Viewing 🌅🧡: Enjoy serene evenings 🌇 as the sky and water 🌊 merge into golden hues ✨😌
- From Colombo 🗺️: Around 3.5 hours ⏳ by car 🚗 (via Negombo – Chilaw – Mundalama) 🛣️💨
- From Puttalam 📍: 25–30 minutes ⏱️ drive 🚗 along the A3 coastal highway 🌊✅
- By Bus 🚌: Take any Colombo–Puttalam bus 🚍 and get down at Mundalama Junction 🗺️; the lagoon 🌊 is just 10 minutes away ⏱️✅
- By Tuk-Tuk 🛺: Hire locally 💸 for easy access to quiet lagoon spots 🤫 and fishing piers ⚓🎣
- Bring binoculars 🔭 and a camera 📸 with zoom 🔎 for bird photography 🐦🦢
- Carry water 💧, hats 🧢, and sunscreen 🧴 — it can get quite hot 🔥🥵 midday ☀️🌡️
- Visit with a local boatman 🛶 or guide 🧑🦯 for safety ⚠️ and authentic stories 📜💡
- Avoid littering 🗑️🚫 and respect local fishermen’s space 🎣🙏
- Combine your visit 📍 with Anawilundawa Wetlands 🏞️ or Marawila Beach 🏖️ for a full-day nature itinerary 🗺️✅
Half-Day Nature & Culture Plan:
- 6:00 AM – Arrive at Mundal Lagoon 🌊🌅 for sunrise 🧡 birdwatching 🐦🦢
- 7:00 AM – Take a boat ride 🛶 through mangroves 🌳 with a local fisherman 🎣⛵
- 8:30 AM – Visit a nearby village 🏘️ to observe traditional fishing methods 🐟💡
- 10:00 AM – Breakfast stop 🍽️🥐 in Marawila or Puttalam 😋☕
- 5:00 PM – Return for sunset views 🌇🧡 and evening photography 📸✨
