Attidiya Bird Sanctuary.

Located in the outskirts of Colombo, Attidiya Bird Sanctuary is a small land (may be the only place near Colombo) for the birds and other animals to take refuge in. I came across Attidiya while looking for a place for photographing birds near Colombo. Though initially my hopes of finding any birds over there were low, I was surprised at the biodiversity which I encountered for a place that is right in the backyard of Colombo city.
There were at least 15 species of birds, many butterflies and other insects, reptiles and many species of marsh vegetation. I even saw a porcupine wandering inside the marshes. People were saying that there is a Crocodile lurking in the canal and many snakes like cobra, viper and python live in the marsh. But I did not encounter any of them.

To start the journey in to the marshes, first reach the Wildlife office on Kahawita Mawatha. There are two offices as shown in the map above. The one on the west side of the canal is a new establishment, which is closed on holidays. The one on the east side of the canal (which is an old disheveled place, in front of a small Bodhi tree temple thing) is open daily. There is not much parking space at the place. I met a guy named Asitha who gave me an introduction to the place and gave me tips regarding the paths I should take etc. It seems the government is planning to renovate the area and is planning to create paved footpaths for easy access.

The footpaths are not well maintained. The one right in front of the office starting next to the small temple is the best path to take to get right into the marshes. It used to have a watchtower which had been broken down by people to scavenge its metal (when will the people in our country learn to preserve and protect places?). There is mud, too much vegetation encroaching and the probability of encountering poisonous snakes is higher on this path. The other two foot paths were much clearer as people in that area frequent them.

This is a good place near the city, which is easily accessible to spot some wild life and to take a relaxing stroll. The best time of the year to visit is December and January when the migrating birds also rest here. The best timings are the mornings and the evenings. You can contact Asitha (071-440-1771) at the wildlife office to arrange a guided tour to the sanctuary.

Share on facebook
Share on twitter
Share on whatsapp

Highlights.

Latest.

KAMU.

Iftar delights at The Banyan, Heritance Negombo

Iftar delights at The Banyan, Heritance Negombo Written by Fathima Rukaiya, Mad Dogs Bodega, Banyan

Highlights Kamu

Budget-friendly Iftar spots 2024

Written by Fathima Rukaiya, In our previous article, we highlighted some exquisite and upscale Iftar

Highlights Kamu

Iftar Buffet Round Up 2024

Written by Fathima Rukaiya As Ramadan arrives, a warm feeling of reflection and community fills

Highlights Kamu

Discovering Pasta Paradise: The Pasta Factory, Galle Fort

In the historic Galle Fort, The Pasta Factory brings a taste of Italy to Sri

Highlights Kamu

A Home for Desi Dreams – Bombay Nights by Radisson Colombo

As we stepped into the ‘Dine’ in Radisson Colombo, our senses were immediately tantalized by

Highlights Kamu

Steak Bar: A Grand Sunday Brunch at Kingsbury, Colombo

Written by Shamrina C Welcome to the ultimate brunch experience! Nestled in the heart of

Highlights Kamu Yamu Guide

Trending.

Experience the Elegance and Excitement of RTC Tourism Race Day in Nuwara Eliya

RTC Nuwara Eliya will hold its RTC Tourism Race Day on 30th March 2024 at

Trending

“85th Annual Mount Lavinia 2-Mile Sea Swim” by SLASU held at the Mount Lavinia Hotel Beach

The "85th Annual Mount Lavinia 2-Mile Sea Swim" organized by Sri Lanka Aquatic Sports Union

Trending

Sheraton Colombo Hotel celebrates International Women’s Day with empowering insights

Sheraton Colombo Hotel, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio of over 30 extraordinary brands, marked International

Trending

Anantara Kalutara Presents an Elevated Gastronomic Journey to Italy

Kalutara, Sri Lanka - March 14, 2024 - Anantara Kalutara Resort is delighted to announce

Trending

List of Party Venues 2024

By Fathima Rukaiya Finding the perfect place to host a party can be a hassle.

Highlights Trending

LCY Unveils Debut ‘LCY for Her’ Collection, Redefining Women’s Polo Wear with Strength, and Sophistication

Thursday, 14, March, 2024, Colombo: LCY, a brand synonymous with manufacturing high-quality men’s polos of

Trending

Yamu Guide.

Steak Bar: A Grand Sunday Brunch at Kingsbury, Colombo

Written by Shamrina C Welcome to the ultimate brunch experience! Nestled in the heart of

Highlights Kamu Yamu Guide

9 Special Valentine’s Day Gift Ideas for Him

By Fathima Rukaiya Are you trying to find the perfect way to show your special

Highlights Yamu Guide

9 Special Valentine’s Day Gift Ideas for Her

Written by Fathima Rukaiya The season of love is upon us once more, and opinions

Highlights Yamu Guide

Romantic Dinner and High Tea date spots for Valentine’s Day  2024

Written by Shamrina C 1. Via Torino Indulge in a fine dining exclusive 3-Course meal

Highlights Yamu Guide

BYOB Bliss: 16 Places to you can Bring Your Own Bottle!

Written by Shamrina C 1. Giovannis Indulge in Italian flavors, grooving music, pet friendly, and

Highlights Yamu Guide

Unveiling Ramada’s Festive Christmas High Tea Extravaganza!

Written by Shamrina C Mark your calendars for the 22nd, 23rd, and 24th of December,

Highlights Yamu Guide