Pigeon Island Marine National Park

The Pigeon Island Marine National Park is a protected marine area located off the coast of Nilaveli in the Eastern Province of Sri Lanka. It is one of Sri Lanka’s most famous and important marine national parks, primarily known for its vibrant coral reefs and rich marine biodiversity.

Here is a breakdown of what the park is known for and general visitor information:

What it is Known For

• Vibrant Coral Reefs: The park contains some of the best remaining coral reefs in Sri Lanka, boasting over 100 species of colorful corals. The large Pigeon Island is fringed by a particularly impressive and extensive coral reef.
• Rich Marine Life: The coral reefs are a habitat for a large number of marine species. Over 300 species of colorful reef fish have been recorded in the area.
• Blacktip Reef Sharks: The park is especially popular for sightings of juvenile and adult Blacktip Reef Sharks in the shallow coral areas, which is a key attraction for snorkelers.
• Sea Turtles: Several species of sea turtles, including the Hawksbill Turtle, Green Turtle, and Olive Ridley Turtle, visit the coral reef.
• Rock Pigeons: The park gets its name from the Rock Pigeon which uses the island as an important breeding ground.
• Snorkeling and Diving: Due to the clear, calm waters and the abundance of marine life in shallow areas, it is considered one of the best locations for snorkeling and scuba diving in Sri Lanka.

Visitor Information

• Location: The park is situated about 1 kilometer off the coast of Nilaveli beach, near the city of Trincomalee, in the Eastern Province of Sri Lanka.
• Access: The only way to get to Pigeon Island is by taking a boat trip from Nilaveli Beach. The boat ride is short, typically lasting around 15-20 minutes.
• Best Time to Visit: The ideal time to visit for snorkeling and diving is during the dry season on the east coast, typically from May to September, when the sea is calm and visibility is at its best.
• Activities: The main activities are snorkeling and scuba diving. There are also nature trails on the main island.
• Park Status: It was initially designated as a sanctuary in 1963 and was re-designated as a National Park in 2003. It consists of two islands: the large Pigeon Island and the small Pigeon Island.