Udawalawe National Park

A Sanctuary of Wilderness

Udawalawe National Park is one of Sri Lanka’s most iconic wildlife destinations, famous for its breathtaking landscapes and guaranteed elephant sightings. Established in 1972, it spans approximately 30,821 hectares (119 square miles), providing a vital sanctuary for wild animals displaced by the construction of the Udawalawe Reservoir.

Key Highlights of the Park:

Size & Geography: Covering over 30,000 hectares, the park is characterized by open grasslands, scrublands, and the massive Udawalawe Reservoir, which serves as the heart of the park’s ecosystem.

The Elephant Kingdom: Udawalawe is world-renowned for its elephant population. With over 250 to 600 elephants roaming the area, it is arguably the best place in Asia to see wild elephants throughout the year.

🦁 Wildlife You Can Encounter

🐆 1. The Sri Lankan Leopard

While Udawalawe is famous for elephants, it is also home to the rare
Sri Lankan Leopard (Panthera pardus kotiya).
More elusive here than in Yala, they often remain hidden among dense scrub
and rocky outcrops. Spotting one is a rare and thrilling highlight for any safari lover.

🐘 2. The Majestic Elephants

The most iconic residents of Udawalawe. You can witness large herds, playful calves,
and majestic tuskers gathering near the reservoir to drink, bathe, and socialize.

🦌 3. Other Mammals

  • 🐻 Sloth Bear – Occasionally spotted in deeper forest areas
  • 🐃 Water Buffalo – Large herds cooling off in marshes
  • 🦌 Deer Species – Spotted Deer, Sambar Deer, and Barking Deer
  • 🐗 Wild Boar & Jackals – Frequently crossing safari tracks

🦜 4. A Birdwatcher’s Paradise

Udawalawe is home to over 180 species of birds, making it a dream destination
for bird lovers:

  • 🌺 Endemic species like the Sri Lanka Junglefowl and Red-faced Malkoha
  • 🦅 Majestic raptors such as the Changeable Hawk-eagle and Crested Serpent Eagle
  • 🐦 Water birds including Painted Storks, Pelicans, and Kingfishers near the tank

🐊 5. Reptiles and Aquatic Life

The reservoir and riverine areas support a fascinating range of reptiles, including
Mugger Crocodiles, Monitor Lizards, and various species of
snakes and tortoises.

🌿 Why Visit Udawalawe?

Unlike many other national parks, Udawalawe’s open terrain allows for easy wildlife
spotting from a distance. The dramatic backdrop of the Kaltota Range mountains
adds exceptional beauty to your safari photographs, making it a must-visit destination
for nature lovers and photographers.

Ticket Prices