There is a saying that, “The early bird catches the worm.” So if you want to see the many exquisite and colourful birds you need to visit the Beddagana Wetland Park early in the morning. The park opens at 6 a. m. Situated in Kotte, Beddagana Wetland Park is home to many birds, butterflies, dragonflies and even mammals.
As you enter the park, a wooden path made out of old railway line wooden planks make sure that visitors stay on track in this vast place. There is a hut made out of clay, where you can leave your food before you proceed further in the park.
As you step foot into this fairytale-like land, you see a river snaking towards the Diyawanna Lake, while above it you hear the hustle and bustle of dragonflies. As you advance, you are continuously met with many rare, local birds, with their unique sounds. On either side of the pathway, you are greeted by unique and beautiful flowers of all colours.
Various zones in the park are named as Butterfly Park, Duck Pond and so on. After maybe 2 – 3 miles of walking, you reach the great Diyawanna Lake which shimmers and dazzles as the sun’s rays bathe it with golden light. Some distance before the lake, you see a tower made out of wood which you could climb and view the magnificent landscape of nature.
The park is quite peaceful with the occasional cries of nature. There are benches where you can rest under the dapples shade of the trees and enjoy the nature. It is quite ground-breaking for the people who live in the cities with hardly a garden in their homes.
It is indeed a fascinating place, well worth the visit.
Devni Tillekeratne (11 years)
Musaeus College
