Aurora Holidays - Colombo Nature Tour

Travel Brief

Viharamahadevi Park
Beddagana Wetland Park (Boardwalks & Mangroves)
Diyasaru Park (Butterfly Garden & Bird Watching)
Diyawanna Oya Lake (Water's Edge)
Parliament Lake Environs

Colombo Nature Tour Overview

While Colombo is known as a bustling commercial hub, it holds a secret green identity. It is officially accredited as a Ramsar Wetland City, making it the only capital city in the world to hold this prestigious title. This tour peels back the layer of skyscrapers to reveal the "lungs" of the city, a network of lush wetlands, canals, and lakes that have survived and thrived alongside urbanization.

Travelers will trade traffic noise for the sounds of nature, exploring serene boardwalks at Beddagana and the biodiversity hotspots of Diyasaru Park. The tour offers a unique blend of urban exploration and wildlife observation, where you can spot everything from migratory birds to vibrant butterflies. It is the perfect restorative journey for those looking to experience Sri Lanka’s tropical biodiversity without leaving the city limits.

Fun Facts

Viharamahadevi Park is the largest and oldest public park in Colombo.
Beddagana Wetland Park is one of Colombo’s last remaining urban wetlands, protecting the city from flooding.
Diyasaru Park is famous for having over 30 species of dragonflies and a dedicated butterfly garden.
Parliament Lake Environs were designed to blend government architecture with natural wetlands and water bodies.

One-Day Colombo Nature Tour Itinerary

🕘 8:00 AM – 9:00 AM

Viharamahadevi Park

Start the day with a peaceful walk through Colombo’s largest green park. Enjoy shady trees, flower gardens, birdlife, and fresh morning air in the heart of the city.

🕘 9:30 AM – 10:45 AM

Beddagana Wetland Park (Boardwalks & Mangroves)

Walk along elevated wooden boardwalks through mangroves and wetlands. Spot water birds, butterflies, and native plants while learning about Colombo’s vital wetland ecosystem.

Key Features

Much recommended to visit the Cenotaph War Memorial and enjoy a quiet picnic on the expansive green lawns.
Great for nature photography, especially capturing migratory birds and colorful butterflies along the wooden paths.
Ideal spot to experience a "floating" walk through dense mangroves and scenic marshlands on the elevated boardwalks.

🕘 11:15 AM – 12:15 PM

Diyasaru Park (Butterfly Garden & Bird Watching)

Explore this conservation-focused eco-park known for its butterfly garden, birdlife, and quiet nature trails surrounded by marshlands.

🕘 12:30 – 1:30 PM

Diyawanna Oya Lake (Waters Edge Area)

Take a gentle lakeside walk around Diyawanna Oya. Enjoy scenic views, water birds, and peaceful surroundings near the Parliament complex.

Key Features

Great for walking through the dedicated butterfly garden to spot various colorful native species up close.
Ideal spot for birdwatchers to observe rare migratory birds and waterfowls from the camouflaged bird hides.
Great for a scenic evening jog or cycle along the well-paved tracks that circle the expansive lake.

🕘 1:45 – 2:45 PM Lunch Break (Eco Café / Lakeside Restaurant) - Enjoy a relaxed lunch at a nature-friendly café or lakeside restaurant near Diyawanna Oya, surrounded by greenery and water views.

🕘 3:00 – 4:00 PM

Parliament Lake Environs

Explore the scenic surroundings of the Parliament Lake. Ideal for photography, quiet walks, and enjoying Colombo’s most tranquil urban landscape.

🕘 4:30 – 5:30 PM

Nature Drive & Wetland Views

Enjoy a slow drive through Colombo’s wetland corridors, spotting canals, greenery, and everyday local life connected to the city’s natural waterways.

Key Features

Much recommended to spot large flocks of pelicans and cormorants resting on the rocks and trees around the complex.
Great for a leisurely drive through lush green canopies that connect the city’s urban wetland parks.
Ideal spot to roll down the windows and enjoy the fresh, cool breeze coming off the extensive marshes.

🕘 5:45 – 6:30 PM
Sunset by Diyawanna Oya

End the day with a calm sunset experience by the lake, watching birds return to roost as the city winds down.

OR

🕘 5:45 – 6:30 PM

Diyawanna Oya Boat Ride / Swan Boat Ride

End the day with a calm sunset experience by the lake, riding boats and swan boats.

Optional Add-Ons

Premium Gem & Jewellery Experience

Visit to reputable, government-certified gem and jewellery shops
Learn about Sri Lanka’s world-famous gems (sapphires, rubies, cat’s eye, moonstone)
Live demonstration of gem cutting and polishing
Opportunity to purchase certified gems and handcrafted jewellery
Expert guidance on gem quality, grading, and authenticity

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Make the earth Greener 🌳

An opportunity to give back to nature and support a greener future
Trees planted in approved local areas or conservation projects
Supports environmental sustainability and local communities
A meaningful post-tour activity for eco-conscious travellers
Helps promote responsible and sustainable tourism in Sri Lanka

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