Udawalawe National Park
Sri Lanka · Sabaragamuwa Province
Description
Udawalawe National Park (උඩවලව) in southern Sri Lanka is one of the country’s best known protected areas and is particularly famous for its wild Asian elephants. The landscape lies at the transition between the wet and dry zones and is characterised by open grasslands, scrubland, wetlands and the Udawalawe Reservoir. Alongside elephants, the park is home to water buffalo, deer, crocodiles and numerous bird species. Its open terrain provides excellent conditions for jeep safaris and wildlife viewing. The nearby Elephant Transit Home cares for orphaned elephants and prepares them for eventual release into the wild. Udawalawe combines diverse landscapes with abundant wildlife and is one of Sri Lanka’s most rewarding safari destinations.
Length of stay
Recommended length of stay: 1 to 2 days (optimal 1 day)
Travel season
Best time to visit: February – June
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Highlights
- Udawalawe National Park jeep safari
- Elephant Transit Home
- Udawalawe Reservoir
- Birdlife of Udawalawe
- Water buffalo, crocodile and other wildlife spotting
- Leopards of Udawalawe
- Udawalawe Dam
- Sankapala Rajamaha Viharaya(Day trip)
- Walawe River and riverine forest