Muthurajawela Marsh
Western Province
About Muthurajawela Marsh
Muthurajawela - the 'supreme field of pearls' - is the improbable wilderness on Colombo's doorstep: over 3,000 hectares of marsh and mangrove stretching between the Negombo lagoon and the Kelani river, within sight of the airport flight path. Legend says these were royal paddy fields drowned by the sea in the 15th century; today the flooded land is the region's richest urban wetland, home to saltwater crocodiles, otters, purple-faced langurs, water monitors patrolling like small dinosaurs, and nearly two hundred bird species from black-hooded orioles to fishing eagles. Boat tours put in near Pamunugama and glide the channels for a couple of hours - go at first light, when mist lies on the water and the bird chorus is deafening. For travellers landing at or leaving from Katunayake, it is the perfect wild bookend to a Sri Lanka trip.
Top Activities
- ✓Dawn boat safari through the marsh
- ✓Crocodile and otter spotting
- ✓Birdwatching (nearly 200 species)
- ✓Mangrove channel exploration
- ✓Combine with Negombo's lagoon and fish market
Nearby Attractions
Travel Tips
The 6–7am boat sees the most wildlife by far.
It's 20 minutes from the airport - ideal for a first or last morning.
Bring insect repellent; this is a living marsh.
Quick Info
Best Time
December to April
Weather
Warm and humid; early morning is coolest and most alive.
Estimated Daily Budget
7.1000°N, 79.8667°E
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