A Wildlife Haven in Southern Sri Lanka

Udawalawe National Park, located on the edge of Sri Lanka’s Sabaragamuwa and Uva provinces, is a top destination for wildlife lovers. Established on June 30, 1972, this vast sanctuary spans about 30,821 hectares (119 square miles). It was created to protect wild animals displaced by the construction of the Udawalawe Reservoir on the Walawe River. Today, the park stands as a symbol of Sri Lanka’s commitment to wildlife conservation and biodiversity.

A Sanctuary for Elephants in Udawalawe

Udawalawe National Park is best known for its large population of Sri Lankan elephants. Around 500 to 600 elephants live in the park, making sightings almost certain. Its open grasslands and scattered forests provide perfect conditions to watch these giants feed, bathe, and move freely in herds.

Diverse Wildlife and Rich Ecosystems

In addition to elephants, the park shelters a wide range of wildlife. Leopards, water buffalo, sambar deer, and jackals are common here. Several monkey species, including the endemic toque macaque, also inhabit the area.

Bird watchers will find over 180 bird species, such as painted storks, white-bellied sea eagles, and the Sri Lanka grey hornbill. Reptiles, including mugger crocodiles and monitor lizards, thrive along riverbanks and wetlands.

Thanks to the Udawalawe Reservoir, the park’s landscape includes grasslands, dense forests, and wetlands. These varied habitats attract diverse animal and bird species throughout the year.

Conservation in Action: Elephant Transit Home

Next to the park is the Elephant Transit Home (ETH), launched in 1995 by the Department of Wildlife Conservation. Unlike traditional orphanages, ETH minimizes human contact to help injured or orphaned elephant calves return to the wild. Visitors can view feeding sessions from a distance, ensuring the animals remain wild and unhabituated to people.

Planning Your Visit to Udawalawe

Getting There: Located about 165 km from Colombo, Udawalawe is reachable in 4 to 5 hours by car. Public buses, like route 98, connect the capital to the park, though most travelers prefer private transport or guided tours.

Safari Experience: The park opens daily from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Safaris typically last 3 to 4 hours in open-top jeeps. For the best chances of seeing wildlife, go on an early morning or late afternoon tour.

Entry Fees: Foreign adults pay around $25 for entry. Jeep rentals and guide services come at an extra cost.

Why Udawalawe Is a Must-Visit

With its elephant encounters, scenic landscapes, and strong conservation efforts, Udawalawe National Park offers one of the best wildlife experiences in Sri Lanka. Whether you’re a nature lover, photographer, or curious traveler, this park promises unforgettable moments in the wild.

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