Bar Reef, Marine sanctuary off Kalpitiya peninsula, Sri Lanka
Bar Reef is a coral reef system off the Kalpitiya peninsula featuring multiple coral formations and diverse marine life. The reef runs parallel to the coast and supports a rich variety of organisms throughout its waters.
The area remained little known during the civil war until authorities declared it a protected marine sanctuary in 1992. This designation marked the start of organized conservation efforts in the region.
Local fishing communities work with scientists and conservation groups to protect the reef and maintain its health. This partnership shapes how people in Kalpitiya relate to and care for their waters.
Visitors can reach the reef through organized tours departing from Kalpitiya, offering snorkeling and diving activities. Plan your trip with local guides to find the best conditions and times for water activities.
The reef supports over 150 coral species and more than 280 fish species, making it one of the richest marine ecosystems in the region. This biological wealth attracts marine researchers and offers visitors rare opportunities to see diverse ocean life.
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