- Hours : 10 am to 5pm Online Tickets Requred
Udawalawe National Park is situated in the southern part of Sri Lanka, in the Sabaragamuwa and Uva provinces. It covers an area of approximately 308 square kilometers (119 square miles), making it one of the larger national parks in Sri Lanka. the park predominantly consists of grasslands and bushy forests, interspersed with scrublands and wetlands around the Udawalawe Reservoir.
It offers picturesque views of the surrounding hills and plains, creating a beautiful backdrop for wildlife viewing.
Udawalawe is best known for its large population of Sri Lankan elephants (Elephas maximus maximus). The park is considered one of the best places in the world to see elephants in their natural habitat. Other notable wildlife species include water buffalo, sambar deer, wild boar, and the Sri Lankan leopard (Panthera pardus kotiya), though leopards are more elusive compared to elephants.
The park is also a haven for birdwatchers, with over 200 bird species recorded, including eagles, owls, hornbills, and numerous water birds. The Udawalawe Reservoir, a prominent feature within the park, attracts a variety of wildlife, especially during the dry season when water sources are limited.
It serves as a crucial watering hole for elephants and other animals, providing opportunities for wildlife observation around its shores. Udawalawe National Park plays a significant role in conserving Sri Lanka's biodiversity, particularly its elephant population. The park management focuses on habitat preservation and mitigating human wildlife conflict.
Sustainable tourism practices are promoted to ensure that wildlife and their habitats are not adversely affected by visitor activities.The park is also a haven for birdwatchers, with over 200 bird species recorded, including eagles, owls, hornbills, and numerous water birds. The Udawalawe Reservoir, a prominent feature within the park, attracts a variety of wildlife, especially during the dry season when water sources are limited.
It serves as a crucial watering hole for elephants and other animals, providing opportunities for wildlife observation around its shores. Udawalawe National Park plays a significant role in conserving Sri Lanka's biodiversity, particularly its elephant population. The park management focuses on habitat preservation and mitigating human wildlife conflict.
Sustainable tourism practices are promoted to ensure that wildlife and their habitats are not adversely affected by visitor activities.
