Why to visit Udawalawe National Park
Udawalawe National Park is a wildlife haven famous for its large population of elephants. Spanning over 30,000 hectares, the park is one of the best places in Sri Lanka to observe wild elephants in their natural habitat. With its open grasslands, reservoirs, and dense forests, Udawalawe is a paradise for nature lovers and photographers.
What's Special About Udawalawe National Park
- Elephant Sightings: The park is home to over 500 elephants, offering near-guaranteed sightings.
- Rich Biodiversity: Apart from elephants, the park houses leopards, crocodiles, deer, and over 180 bird species.
- Udawalawe Reservoir: This large water body attracts many animals, making it a prime location for wildlife photography.
- Elephant Transit Home: A rehabilitation center for orphaned elephants before their release into the wild.
Things to Do at Udawalawe National Park
- Go on a jeep safari for close-up encounters with elephants and other wildlife.
- Visit the Elephant Transit Home to see baby elephants being fed.
- Enjoy birdwatching, as the park is home to various endemic and migratory birds.
- Capture stunning sunset views over the Udawalawe Reservoir.
Little Known Facts About Udawalawe National Park
- It was created in 1972 to provide a sanctuary for displaced animals due to the construction of the Udawalawe Reservoir.
- The park is often compared to African savannas due to its vast open landscapes.
- Unlike Yala National Park, Udawalawe offers year-round wildlife sightings, with fewer crowds.
Entry Fee (Approximately)
- Foreigners: $25 per adult, $15 per child
- SAARC Countries: $15 per adult, $8 per child
- Sri Lankan Citizens: LKR 100 per adult, LKR 50 per child
- Jeep Safari: Starts from LKR 5,000 per vehicle
Timings
Open Daily: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Average Time to Visit
3 to 4 Hours: A half-day safari is ideal for exploring the park’s wildlife.
Distance from Key Points
- From Colombo: 165 km (4 hours)
- From Ella: 90 km (2.5 hours)
- From Mirissa: 115 km (3 hours)
Tourist Spots Nearby
- Elephant Transit Home (5 km)
- Diyaluma Falls (50 km)
- Sinharaja Forest Reserve (90 km)
