In this article, you will get some background information on the history of Kumana, why it is worth visiting, the best time to go, and we will share some tips straight from the horse’s mouth for your own, amazing, safari experience.
Where is Kumana National Park? What makes it special?
Kumana National Park, situated one hour heading South from Arugam Bay, is a pristine wilderness area renowned for its diverse array of flora and fauna, stunning landscapes, and rich biodiversity. Covering an expansive area of approximately 35,664 hectares, Kumana National Park is one of the country’s most important bird sanctuaries, making it a paradise for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts alike.
In former days, the park was called ‘Yala East’, until the name was changed into Kumana. It is located Northern East of Yala National Park. The areas actually border on each other, only separated by a natural river. As most travelers visit Arugam Bay for some days at the beach or for surfing, the demand for safari tours to Kumana is still negligible. Maybe there are 10–15 trucks entering the park during a busy day in summer, when it’s the high season for surfing in Arugam Bay. Consequently, you often drive completely on your own without the company of other trucks in the park, which increases the quality of experience a lot. Hence, it is not surprising that Lonely Planet describes Kumana National Park as the ‘best alternative to the crowded parks’.
Which animals can you spot in Kumana?
One of the park’s most striking features is the Kumana Villu, a series of interconnected lagoons and waterways that provide vital habitat for a wide variety of bird species, especially during the migratory season. The park is home to over 255 species of birds, including rare and endemic species such as the black-necked stork, lesser adjutant, and the iconic painted stork, which breed and roost in the area.
In addition to its avian inhabitants, Kumana National Park is also home to a diverse range of wildlife, including elephants, leopards, deer, wild boar, and various species of reptiles and amphibians. The park’s dense forests, grasslands, and wetlands provide essential habitat for these animals, ensuring their survival in this unique ecosystem.
When is the best time to visit the Kumana National Park?
Visiting Kumana is possible all year long. The seasons have an impact on the appearance of Kumana: during the slow season, which lasts from November to March, you may see lush green and water ponds full to the top. Driving on roads completely submerged in water is an exciting experience. When the dry months begin in April, the colors gradually turn to a drier brown. Unquestionably, each season has its own particular magic.
Tips for your own safari experience:
- You can leave from Arugam Bay in the early morning (5 am) or after lunch (1 pm) for the best experience. The tour takes around 6-7 hours.
- There’s just one public bathroom in the park. It’s at the entrance, on the right hand side, in a detached house.
- Bring your own food and enough water, as there’s no real infrastructure on the way to buy snacks. Don’t forget to pack all your trash, as we want to keep nature clean.
- In the park is a bird observation tower. There, you can get off the truck, walk up the stairs to the top of the tower, and enjoy the view.
- What else: No sneakers needed, you can wear slippers. Bring some sunscreen, and maybe something like a shawl or long sleeve to keep yourself warm (in the early morning and after sunset, it might get fresh when driving fast to the park or back).
- Turn your phone into airplane mode – you won’t have a connection anyhow in the park. Save your battery for taking pictures and videos instead.
- Book your safari tour to Kumana with Stay Golden in Arugam Bay. Get in contact with us for more information and availability: Contact us.