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Grand Magellan Ceylon Tours
Africa in Sri Lanka — baobab trees, flamingos, and the edge of the world
Mannar Island is connected to the mainland by a causeway. It has a dry, arid climate and features landscapes utterly unlike the rest of Sri Lanka, dotted with African baobab trees planted by Arab traders centuries ago. The historic Mannar Fort, built by the Portuguese and later the Dutch, and the shallow lagoons which attract thousands of migratory flamingos, make it a fascinating northern frontier.
January to September. Migratory flamingos arrive October to March in the salt pans. The road to Mannar (A14) passes through some of the most atmospheric dry-zone scenery in Sri Lanka.
1-2 days
Mannar has the densest concentration of African baobab trees outside Africa — enormous, bottle-shaped trees believed to be 1,000 years old, planted by Arab traders.
Large flocks of flamingos and migratory shorebirds congregate in the salt pans around Mannar from October to March.
A large, star-shaped fortification built by the Portuguese in 1560, later captured by the Dutch — now a crumbling but atmospheric ruin.
Our local travel experts can design a fully custom tailor-made itinerary featuring Mannar to match your pace, interests, and style.
Inquire NowA coastal town deeply significant for Hindu pilgrims.
A bustling crossroads city dominated by massive rock outcrops.
A vibrant agricultural town famous for its spice gardens.
The eastern terminus of the famous hill country railway.
A major tea-growing town with a superb spring-like climate.
A spectacular ridge town overlooking the southern plains.
A rugged, misty mountain range perfect for serious trekkers.
A Ramsar wetland vital for migratory waterbirds.
From the northern tip of the island, the chain of limestone shoals forming the legendary 'Adam's Bridge' to India can be seen stretching across the shallow strait.