Diyasaru Park - Thalawathugoda

Escape the hustle and bustle of Colombo without even leaving the city! Tucked away in Thalawathugoda, Diyasaru Park is a surprising sanctuary of lush greenery, tranquil waters, and vibrant wildlife. It’s a man-made wetland built to be a green lung for the city, offering a perfect blend of recreation, conservation, and education for families, nature lovers, and photographers alike.

Spanning an impressive 60 acres, this urban wetland is located right next to the Parliament of Sri Lanka. What was once marshy paddy land has been transformed into a thriving ecosystem with walking trails, bird-watching towers, and open-water areas. A visit to Diyasaru Park proves that you don’t need to travel far from the capital to immerse yourself in Sri Lanka’s incredible biodiversity.

⭐ Why Visit Diyasaru Park?

• ✅ Incredible Bird Watching: It’s a hotspot for avian life, with over 50 species of birds, including many migratory ones. Look out for Purple Herons, Cormorants, and the elusive Pied Kingfisher.
• ✅ Urban Nature Escape: Get your dose of nature with lush greenery, peaceful boardwalks, and serene waterways, providing a much-needed break from city life.
• ✅ Family-Friendly Activities: With boat rides, a butterfly garden, and safe walking paths, it’s an ideal spot for a fun and educational family outing.
• ✅ Photography Paradise: The park’s scenic landscapes, colourful birds, and fluttering butterflies offer endless opportunities for stunning photos.
• ✅ Learn About Wetlands: Discover the crucial role of urban wetlands in flood control and biodiversity conservation through the park’s well-managed environment.

🚶‍♂️ The Diyasaru Park Experience

Your journey at Diyasaru Park begins the moment you step onto its well-maintained gravel paths and wooden boardwalks that meander through marshes and over canals. The air feels cleaner, and the city’s noise is replaced by the gentle chirping of birds and the rustling of reeds. You can climb one of the bird-watching towers for a panoramic view of the wetlands and a better chance to spot some of the resident and migratory birds.

For a different perspective, hop on a guided boat tour that takes you through the park’s waterways, allowing for up-close encounters with aquatic birds and monitor lizards basking in the sun. Don’t forget to visit the dedicated butterfly garden, where you can witness dozens of colourful species flitting among the flowers. It’s a truly immersive experience that feels a world away from the nearby capital.

Historical Fact: Diyasaru Park was originally a part of the marshy land and paddy fields that surrounded the new Parliament complex in the 1980s. It was specifically developed as a flood detention area to absorb excess water from the Diyawanna Oya, playing a vital role in mitigating floods in the administrative capital.

📌 Location & How to Get There

• District: Colombo
• Nearest Town: Thalawathugoda / Battaramulla
• By Train: The most practical way is to reach Colombo Fort or Maradana station and then take a taxi, ride-hailing service, or a bus towards Battaramulla.
• From Battaramulla: The park is located on Japan Friendship Road (Japan Sri Lanka Friendship Rd), just a short 5-10 minute drive or tuk-tuk ride from the Battaramulla junction.
• By Car: Easily accessible from Colombo and its suburbs. Ample parking space is usually available at the entrance.

🌤️ Best Time to Visit

• December – March: This is the dry season, offering pleasant weather for walking the trails and enjoying boat rides without the interruption of rain. The park is lush and green following the monsoon.
• August – November: This period marks the beginning of the migratory bird season. It’s the absolute best time for avid birdwatchers to visit, as you can spot numerous species arriving for the winter.

✅ Travel Tips & What to Bring

• Early Mornings or Late Afternoons: Visit during these times to avoid the midday heat and to see birds when they are most active.
• Binoculars: A must-have for any aspiring bird watcher to get a closer look at the diverse avian life.
• Comfortable Footwear: You’ll be doing a fair bit of walking on gravel paths and boardwalks, so wear sturdy, comfortable shoes.
• Insect Repellent: As it’s a wetland environment, carrying some mosquito repellent is a wise precaution.
• Camera with a Zoom Lens: Essential for capturing great shots of the wildlife without disturbing them.
• Water & Hat: Stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun, especially if you’re visiting in the middle of the day.

🏡 Where to Stay

As Diyasaru Park is located within the Colombo metropolitan area, accommodation options are plentiful and cater to all budgets.

• Battaramulla & Rajagiriya: Find a range of boutique hotels, guesthouses, and modern apartment rentals perfect for those who want to stay close to the park.
• Colombo City (Cinnamon Gardens, Kollupitiya): For a wider variety of luxury hotels, international chains, and budget-friendly options, staying in central Colombo is ideal, with the park being just a 30-45 minute drive away.
• Kotte: Explore charming homestays and small hotels in the historical city of Kotte, offering a more local experience.