Situated in Hambantota District, Kalametiya Bird Sanctuary spans over 2,500 hectares of lagoons, salt marshes, mangroves and open water. Declared a sanctuary in 1938, it is one of Sri Lanka’s pioneering protected wetlands. Its mosaic habitats support over 150 species of birds, including migratory waders like sandpipers and resident birds such as purple herons, bee eaters and white breasted waterhens. 

Boat safaris are the best way to explore Kalametiya. Skimming over calm waters, visitors often glimpse brahminy kites soaring overhead, storks wading gracefully and kingfishers diving for fish. Endangered species like the black capped purple kingfisher add to its appeal for avid birders. 

Beyond avifauna, the sanctuary is rich in fish, amphibians and reptiles. Its mangroves serve as crucial breeding grounds, sustaining both biodiversity and local fishing livelihoods. Conservation initiatives continue to balance ecological protection with community needs. 

Unlike more crowded destinations, Kalametiya offers a gentle, meditative experience. The soundtrack here is subtle, the rustle of reeds, the plop of a fish and the cry of distant birds. For travellers seeking calm rather than spectacle, Kalametiya embodies the understated charm of Sri Lanka’s southern coast, proving that small sanctuaries can leave lasting impressions.