Pigeon Island is a national park, one of two marine national parks in Sri Lanka. The island is located 1 km from Nilaveli Beach. The name of the island comes from the rock pigeon that lives here. The national park is home to the best coral reef in Sri Lanka. Pigeon Island became a nature reserve in 1963. In 2003, it was declared a national park. This park is one of 17 in Sri Lanka.
Pigeon Island consists of two islands: a large one and a small one. The large island is fringed by a coral reef, the length of which is about 200 meters and the width is about 100. The small island is surrounded by rocky islets. The national park is located in the dry region of Sri Lanka. The average annual temperature is about 27 °C. The annual rainfall is 1000-1700 millimeters, most of which falls during the north-east monsoon from October to March.

Pigeon Island, located off the eastern coast of Sri Lanka near Nilaveli Beach, is a tropical paradise that offers one of the best snorkeling experiences in South Asia. This small marine national park boasts crystal-clear waters with visibility extending up to 20 meters, making it ideal for underwater exploration. Snorkelers can expect to encounter an impressive variety of marine life, including blacktip reef sharks, sea turtles, and over 100 species of vibrant coral fish. The island features two main snorkeling sites: a shallow coral reef perfect for beginners and a deeper area for more experienced swimmers. The best time to visit is between April and September when the sea is calm and the weather is favorable. It's worth noting that visitors must purchase a national park entrance ticket, and it's recommended to arrive early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the best underwater visibility. Don't forget to bring your own snorkeling gear, although rental equipment is available on the mainland.



