Anawilundawa Wetland

Anawilundawa is unusual in holding three habitats against each other: a chain of nine ancient irrigation tanks built around the twelfth century and still working, a belt of mangrove, and the sea, all within a few kilometres. It was declared a Ramsar site in 2001. The tanks hold cormorants, pelicans, herons and large numbers of wintering ducks, and otters and fishing cats use the margins. Bunds between the tanks make walking easy.

What you'll find

• The tank cascade - nine linked reservoirs from the twelfth century, still functioning.
• The three habitats - freshwater tanks, mangrove and sea within a few kilometres.
• The wintering ducks - large numbers on the tanks from November.
• The bund paths - walkable embankments between the reservoirs.

When to go

November to March is the wintering season and the best for birds. Early morning is when activity is highest. Summer is hot and the tanks shrink.

Before you go

Shrimp farming has encroached on the mangrove and the damage is visible. There are no hides and no visitor centre. Facilities are minimal.

Nearby

Chilaw is south, and Kalpitiya is north.

Key facts