2009 January Tour

Elephant Reach: Kirinda, a great and convenient place to stay. Close to Yala and Bundala Nat: Parks

January 2009 presented another great opportunity to travel around Sri Lanka. My close pal Weli and I were joined by young Raehan: a budding photographer with a keen eye. Our travels took us to Passara, Bundala National Park, Kuda Oya, Tissa Lake and on to the Anawilundawa Wetland Sanctuary North of Chilaw and further North West to the Kalpitiya Peninsula and the Puttlam Lagoon some great photo ops were by all. By far the highlight of the January tour was the spectacular display of Spinner Dolphins at Alankuda, on the Kalpitiya Peninsula. Green Turtles and flying fish were also abundant.

As usual some great meals were also had in the local kades’ (road side cafes’). A fresh hot serving of String Hoppers and Kiri Bath complimented by a very tasty fresh water fish curry went down very well after the early morning drives into the Parks and forests. A wide spectrum of birdlife was also noted; namely, garden and forest birds, waders, water birds, storks, birds of prey, and Egrets. Below: the ‘Kade’” where we enjoyed  the meals. Right: Five kilos of fresh Seer Fish at Karukupane fish Market. Just off the boat.

We also enjoyed the sightings of smaller mammals and reptiles at the various locations.

Birds- see next page-click on ‘more’