Pigeon Island National Park

Pigeon Island National Park

Pigeon Island National Park is situated in Trincomalee, Sri Lanka. It has mesmerizing white sand and enticing coral reefs. It is one of the two marine national parks in Sri Lanka. It is situated 1 km off the coast of Nilveli. It spreads to an area of 471.429 hectares.

About the destination

The name for Pigeon Island National Park was derived from the rock pigeon which has colonized it. It is a beautiful place with rock pools and paths and provides nestling for stunning rock pigeons. This place has the best remaining coral reefs left in Sri Lanka. It was designated as a sanctuary in 1963. Later in 2003, it was named as a National Park. It is the 17^th National Park in Sri Lanka.

Things to do in Pigeon Island National Park

The reef in Pigeon Island National Park is so shallow that it makes a snorkeler’s experience similar to a diver’s experience. This place consists of hundreds of coral reefs, reef fish, and turtles including blacktip reef sharks. You can go on snorkeling and diving for mesmerizing experiences. If you expect more thrilling activities you can arrange a boat trip with the Nilaveli Private boat service which is close to the park. The prices may differ accordingly. The best time to visit Pigeon Island National Park is between May to September.

How to reach your destination

From Colombo

Go on McCallum Road and T. B. Jayah Mawatha to Maradana Road. Take Colombo – Katunayake Expressway. Take Veyangoda Road, Ekala – Kotadeniyawa road to Ambepussa – Kurunegala – Trincomalee Highway.

Then follow Ambepussa – Kurunegala – Trincomalee Highway. Drive from Pulmoddai Road and take the ferry. Turn left at the park and the destination will be on the right.

From Trincomalee

Drive along Pulmoddai Road. Turn left at Nilaweli sweets & restaurant. Take the ferry and turn left at the park. Your destination will be on the right.