Being one of the largest estuarine lagoons on the island, Batticaloa Lagoon is renowned among nature-lovers and travellers as a unique biodiversity hotspot. The lagoon is located at a point where several rivers meet the sea, is well nourished by mineral-rich soil and other nutrients which lets the region’s flora to thrive. Hence, the lagoon’s surroundings are dotted with lush patches of marshes and greenery. These ecosystems offer a perfect breeding ground for wading birds and it even welcomes migratory birds from different parts of the world. Some of the commonly spotted bird varieties here are black-necked stork, Nothern Pintail, Eurasian Coot, Great cormorant, and the spotted dove.
The lagoon is composed of an area of a whopping 11 500 ha of water and it provides nourishment for a menagerie of marine animals as well as timid and elusive creatures of the land. There are plenty of ways you could explore the lagoon and choosing a boat tour proves to be the most convenient of ways. The waters are calm most of the time and the journey is indeed surreal and relaxing. You can also explore the lagoon on a kayak and you could indulge in this experience by reaching out to a local tour operator.
