 Kalpitiya Islands, a wildlife haven
 The scenic Kalpitiya marine
sanctuary extends to about 307 sq. km. being home to Sri Lanka’s largest
coral reef, the ‘Bar Reef’. Right around clustered in a perfectly-formed
jigsaw puzzle, are the islands around Kalpitiya which are both large and
small shaped delicately within the sea and the Kalpitiya lagoon. Most of
these islands, especially the ones by the lagoon, are covered with lush
green mangroves that offer a haven for wildlife.
The islands and the surrounding wetlands have been brimming habitats
for local and migratory birds of different species. There about 25
species of core mangroves found in Sri Lanka. According to international
botanists, out of the 22, some 10 rare species are found in these
islands.
Sri Lanka Environmental Television Project supports the Green Coast
Reports where they did a documentary on ‘Mangroves Are Forever’ filming
Kalpitiya. Shrimp farming damaged and degraded mangroves around the
Kalpitiya lagoon. After the industry collapsed, the community joined
hands with a conservation group to restore the mangroves, some of which
is harvested.
Be it sand safaris or tripping around, the Kalpitiya islands have
something in store for the die-hard adventure seeker. Ride along the
deserted sand dunes between the ocean and the lagoon or enjoy a sunset
drink after a hard day.
 Remember if you’re snorkelling, kayaking, canoeing, sailing, kite or
windsurfing, do it in a way so that it doesn’t affect Mother Nature.
Bird-watchers can indulge in serious bird-brained activities with the
wilderness sanctuary in close proximity to the islands. Also, make your
holiday an exciting one with a walk on the moray ridge. A bar reef full
of nooks and crevices housing a multitude of Moray Eels, large Groupers,
BigeyesSoldierfish and Cardinalfish who are the keepers of the night.
Some of the Kalpitiya islands are Battalangunduwa, Palliyawatta,
Vellai, Uchchamunai, Ippantivu, Arichchalai, Eramutivu, Kakativu and
Mutwal (Dutch Bay).
Text: ND
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