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Muthurajawela Wetlands & Sanctuary
Muthurajawela is a designated Sanctuary and one of the most important coastal wetland ecosystems in Sri Lanka, bordering the Negombo Lagoon. Meaning 'Swamp of Royal Treasure,' it covers over 6,000 hectares and is a biologically rich habitat, best explored by a guided boat tour to observe its unique flora and fauna.
Details of Muthurajawela Wetlands: Coastal Marsh, Birdwatching & Mangrove Safari
Open now
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible toilet
Wheelchair-accessible car park
Wheelchair-accessible entrance
Children
Good for kids
Parking
Paid parking lot
Free parking lot
Overview - A Vital Coastal Ecosystem
Muthurajawela is a unique and significant coastal wetland ecosystem, stretching between the Kelani River and the Negombo Lagoon. It was declared a Sanctuary in 1996 for its high biodiversity. The area is dominated by the largest saline peat bog in Sri Lanka and mangrove habitats. It functions as a crucial filtration system and nursery ground for aquatic life, supporting local livelihoods. It is home to 192 plant species and 209 vertebrate species, highlighting its ecological importance.
Tags/ Categories
Highlights
Avian Paradise (Over 100 Bird Species)
Boat Safari
Mangrove Forests & Marshland
Aquatic Life (Crocodiles, Fish, & Others)
Nearby Attractions
Negombo Lagoon
4.5
1,250 reviews
A large estuarine lagoon linked to the wetlands, famous for its fishing industry, crabs, and scenic sunset boat rides.
Hamilton Canal (Dutch Canal)
4
850 reviews
A historic canal system built during the colonial era, perfect for a relaxing boat ride connecting Negombo to Colombo.
Angurukaramulla Temple
4.4
620 reviews
A historic Buddhist temple known for its massive 6-meter Buddha statue and intricate murals depicting Jataka tales.
Negombo Beach Park
4.2
3,100 reviews
A vibrant stretch of golden sand lined with restaurants and bars, ideal for evening walks and witnessing the local fishing culture.
Guruge Nature Park
3.8
450 reviews
Sri Lanka’s first theme park, featuring historical exhibits, a gem museum, and bird sanctuary, located very close to the wetlands.
Navigations
Navigations
Muthurajawela Visitor Centre, Bopitiya
Reviews
Joan Mclennan
The owner of the guesthouse we were staying in recommended, and booked, the tour for us which was much cheaper than on TripAdvisor or any other sites. We were the only two on the boat with our guide and driver, who were both …
2 months ago
Victor Miller
it was a great trip, it was my first time in Sri Lanka, and I really enjoyed the boat ride. I got to see a lot of local wildlife, and the tour guide was very friendly and helpful. I highly recommend this tour🙂 …
a month ago
Anwar Hiralal
Very nice and friendly tourguide. She was very knowledgable about the birds and also very excited when we spotted them. Definitely worth it! Call the visitor centre in advance to book a tour! Early bookings are best of course
9 months ago
Anna Redkina
Amazing Tour! I had a very nice guide, she showed me a lot of birds, baby crocodile, monkeys, and told me about different plants also. It was just a pleasure! I know that to see animals in nature is always a question of luck (that I had)), …
a year ago
Sanathanan Rasendramoorthy
Had a very good boat trip to Negombo lagoon through Dutch canel. There was a guide accompanied out tour and she explained about the history of Dutch canel, birds and animals in our path. We were able to see few birds and a water monitor. …
10 months ago
Liz
Wonderful place. Passionate and knowledgeable staff. Guided down the beautiful canal pointing out and explaining the wildlife we saw. This centre really deserves the support of the tourist dollar to support its …
a year ago
Lakmal Wijewardane
It was a wonderful experience with family. Before the boat ride the lady at the office gives a very educational briefing about the history and background of the canal. The officer came with us as the tour guide was very knowledgeable and …
4 years ago
Niroshan Senadheera
Nice 2 hour tour around Muthurajawela lagoon and Hamilton lake. Guide knows about the area and wildlife a great deal. Before you head out agree upon a price, because it seems like there is no fixed price. Agreement over the phone is not valid.
a year ago
Rony Zgheib
Amazing experience, oir forst encounter with the wildlife in sri lanka. We were not sure how to ride a boat on this canal so we went to mathurajawela visitor center. We waited a little bit and the guide from the center helped us. The ticket …
a year ago
Shehan Dondeenu
Have a wonderful morning toure today.We saw lots of birds and 1 baby 🐊 . Friendly staff. Well knowledge guide. explain about lots of things .highly recommend . …
a year ago