Ocean and Wildlife
Kalpitiya is a distinct lagoon in Puttalam district in North Western Province of Sri Lanka, which is consist of 14 islands and has a total area of 16.73km2. Most of the people in this area are fishermen and is a leading dry-fish production area of the country.
Moreover, Kalpitiya was famous for pearls in the history. But, after recognizing this area as a hotspot for marine mammals it is now emerging as a gorgeous tourist terminus. It is a supreme marine ecosystem with a diversity of habitats ranging from bar reefs, flat coastal plains, saltpans, mangroves, salt marshes and massive sand dunes.
Kalpitiya Peninsula
Kalpitiya, located 130 km north of Bandaranaike International Airport, is a stunning coastal region on Sri Lanka’s western belt. Nestled between the Puttalam Lagoon and the Indian Ocean, the 48 km-long peninsula is known for its pristine sandy beaches and marine biodiversity.
Kalpitiya comprises 14 surrounding islands—including Battalangunduwa, Palliyawatta, and Dutch Bay—covering 1,673 hectares, and has been part of a tourism development project since 2008. Recognized as a marine sanctuary, Kalpitiya features bar reefs, mangroves, saltpans, and sand dunes, serving as vital breeding grounds for marine life. Its coastal waters attract dolphins, whales, sea turtles, and the rare dugong, making it a top destination for eco-tourism and marine adventures.