The Beauty of Muthurajawela: A Photographic Journey Through Sri Lanka’s Mangroves

Muthurajawela (Royal Swamp of Pearls) is an important part of Sri Lanka’s Western Province ecosystem. These scenic wetlands cover an extent of 3068 hectares and are known as the largest saline coastal peat bog marsh in the island. Boat safaris in the Muthurajawela wetland are a popular draw for travellers. On a tour, you will glide past mangrove thickets, and have an opportunity to spot a variety of bird species, mammals and reptiles. The beauty of these wetlands is unsurpassed, making it a top location for nature photography in Sri Lanka.

The wetlands begin at Wattala just north of Colombo and extend to Pamunugama, linking up with the Negombo Lagoon mangrove ecosystem. It is one of the country’s 12 main wetlands. The wetland area includes a canal system known as the Hamilton or Dutch Canal, and the lagoon flows into the sea at Dowa in the town of Negombo.

The Muthurajawela marshes perform many crucial functions, impacting the lives of the people who live in its vicinity. Firstly, it acts as an oxygen reservoir and a carbon dioxide sponge. Secondly, it’s a run-off area for storm waters, overflow of canals and the Dandugama Oya waterway, hence preventing or minimising flooding of the highly populated areas in Colombo North to Negombo. It is also a source of income for people who fish in the waterways that meander through the marshes.

Muthurajawela is well worth a visit, especially for those visiting Negombo or Colombo. It’s a fantastic starting point for nature adventures in Sri Lanka, being conveniently located near the country’s main airport. Ecotourism has been promoted through the creation of the Muthurajawela Wetland Sanctuary Centre, offering bird watching and nature tours in Sri Lanka to explore the diverse systems at play. They also help to spread awareness about Muthurajawela and the need for protecting its vital ecosystem.

During the boat safari, you’ll glide along the historic Dutch Canal before venturing into the Negombo Lagoon. Next, navigate through a lush mangrove forest in Sri Lanka, eventually crossing the river delta of the Attanagalla Oya, which is a key part of the Muthurajawela swamp on your return trip.

During your boat ride in Muthurajawela, you can discover diverse species of flora, fauna and bird life (both local and migratory). Aquatic birds such as Cormorants, Herons, Egrets, Waders, Coots and Kingfishers are common. 17 species of winter migrants can also be seen, such as Wagtails, Glossy Ibis, Shrikes, Blue tailed bee eater, and the Asian Paradise Flycatcher. 102 bird species have been recorded, representing about 40% of the country’s avifauna.

Keep your eyes peeled for animals such as the rare and endemic Slender Loris, Fishing Cat and shrews. Reptiles and amphibians include water monitors and even crocodiles! There are many types of freshwater fish, found in the different waterways, as well as a variety of crabs, prawns and shrimp that appear closer to the Negombo lagoon area. About 10% of all fauna are endemic.

There are many different ecosystems within the wetland, such as mangroves in Sri Lanka, grasslands, vernal pools, marshes, and waterways. Among the 190 plant species growing in the mangroves are different types of Kadol, Bariya, Rathugas, Mandagas and Mulli.

Unfortunately, about 75% of the mangrove wetlands in the Island have disappeared over the past 100 years. These threats are both natural (from invasive species, diseases, natural degradation) and man-made. Due to its location in the densely populated northern suburbs of Colombo, the increasing pressure from the growing population, commercial and industrial interests for land, and encroachment on the Muthurajawela Wetland remains an ever present threat. As a result, wetland conservation in Sri Lanka has become a crucial endeavour to protect this nature reserve.

Visitors to the wetlands can opt to stay in a hotel or luxury villa in Negombo such as Jetwing Thalahena Villas, located along Sri Lanka’s stunning western coastline. Nestled by the Negombo Lagoon, this boutique villa offers modern comforts and spacious interiors designed in contemporary Sri Lankan style with a rustic touch. There are open-air showers and private pools, giving guests a taste of luxury right by the ocean. Enjoy gourmet beachside dining with beautiful views of the sea – it’s perfect for couples and families looking for a quiet beach getaway.

Muthurajawela is an ecological treasure, making it a must-visit destination for travellers seeking natural beauty and adventure. The wetland’s unique features and rich biodiversity provide a glimpse into Sri Lanka’s enchanting landscapes.