national park · Nilaveli

Pigeon Island National Park is a small marine park about 1 km off Nilaveli Beach, 10 to 15 minutes by boat. Its shallow coral reef is one of the best snorkelling spots in Sri Lanka, with regular sightings of blacktip reef sharks and green turtles. It is run by the Department of Wildlife Conservation, and foreigners need a park ticket in addition to the boat.

Best time to visit

Roughly May to September, first boats from about 7am

Typical visit duration

Half a day

Tips

Bring your passport for the ticket. Do not stand on or touch the coral, and take all plastic back with you.