Pigeon Island National Park

🐠 Pigeon Island National Park – Best for Vibrant Coral Reefs
Pigeon Island National Park, located off the coast of Nilaveli in Eastern Sri Lanka, is one of the best places for snorkeling and diving in the country. This protected marine sanctuary is famous for its stunning coral gardens, colorful reef fish, and diverse marine life. Named after the rock pigeons that inhabit the island, it consists of two small islands surrounded by crystal-clear waters teeming with marine biodiversity.

With its pristine beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and abundant marine species, Pigeon Island offers a tropical paradise for snorkelers, divers, and nature lovers.

🌟 Why Visit Pigeon Island National Park?
🐠 1. A Snorkeler’s & Diver’s Dream
✔ Over 100 species of coral, creating breathtaking underwater scenery. 🌿🏝️
✔ Colorful marine life, including:

Clownfish (Nemo) & Parrotfish 🐟

Blacktip Reef Sharks 🦈

Turtles & Moray Eels 🐢

Butterflyfish, Angelfish & Lionfish

✔ Best time to visit: April – October (calm waters & clear visibility).

🏖️ 2. Stunning White Sand Beaches
✔ Perfect for relaxation, sunbathing & swimming. 🌊
✔ Secluded and pristine, making it an ideal tropical getaway.

🌊 3. Protected Marine Ecosystem
✔ Declared a National Park in 2003, ensuring conservation of coral reefs.
✔ One of Sri Lanka’s two marine national parks.
✔ Home to rare & endangered marine species.

📸 Best Time for Photography at Pigeon Island
✔ Early morning (8:00 AM – 11:00 AM) for underwater photography & snorkeling.
✔ Late afternoon (3:00 PM – 6:00 PM) for sunset beach photography.

🚤 How to Get to Pigeon Island?
✔ By Boat: 15-minute boat ride from Nilaveli Beach (Trincomalee).
✔ By Road: 6-hour drive from Colombo to Nilaveli.

🤿 Best Activities at Pigeon Island
✔ Snorkeling & Diving – Explore Sri Lanka’s most vibrant coral reefs.
✔ Swimming & Relaxing – Enjoy the crystal-clear waters & soft white sand.
✔ Wildlife Watching – Spot rock pigeons, reef sharks, and sea turtles.

🏕️ Where to Stay Near Pigeon Island?
✔ Luxury Resorts – Trinco Blu by Cinnamon, Anilana Nilaveli
✔ Eco-Friendly Stays – Nilaveli Beach Resort, Uga Jungle Beach
✔ Budget Options – Guesthouses & beach cabanas in Nilaveli

🛎️ Tips for Visiting Pigeon Island
✔ Wear reef-safe sunscreen to protect the corals.
✔ Bring an underwater camera for incredible marine photography. 📸
✔ Avoid touching or stepping on corals to preserve the fragile ecosystem.
✔ Visit early morning to avoid crowds & get the best snorkeling experience.

🌍 Why Pigeon Island Should Be on Your Bucket List?
✅ Sri Lanka’s best marine national park for snorkeling & diving 🐠🤿
✅ Home to some of the most vibrant coral reefs in South Asia 🌊🏝️
✅ A peaceful island getaway with crystal-clear waters & white sand beaches 🌞🏖️
✅ Perfect for marine lovers, photographers, and adventure seekers

🐠 Dive into the Underwater Paradise of Pigeon Island! 🏝️