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Udawalawe National Park
Attraction
4.5 (6468 reviews)
This 30,821-hectare nature reserve features native wildlife, including elephants & water birds.
Sri Lanka
Did You Know?
Elephant Population
Udawalawe National Park is home to an estimated population of over 600 Sri Lankan elephants, making it one of the best places globally to observe these magnificent creatures in the wild.
Orphan Elephant Home
The park hosts the Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home (ETH), a vital rehabilitation center that cares for orphaned elephant calves with the ultimate goal of releasing them back into the wild.
Park's Origin
Established in 1972, the park was primarily created to provide a sanctuary for wild animals, particularly elephants, displaced by the construction of the Udawalawe Reservoir.
Vast Landscape
Udawalawe spans approximately 308 square kilometers (30,821 hectares), characterized by open grasslands, scrub jungle, and the large Udawalawe Reservoir, providing diverse habitats.
Highlights from Reviews
• Abundant elephants
The park is renowned for its large elephant herds, offering frequent and close-up sightings, including families and baby elephants.
• Diverse wildlife
Beyond elephants, visitors can spot a wide array of animals such as water buffalo, peacocks, crocodiles, deer, monkeys, and numerous bird species.
• Knowledgeable guides
Guides and drivers are often praised for being friendly, professional, and highly knowledgeable about the park and its wildlife.
• Scenic landscapes
The park features vast natural landscapes, open plains, and a scenic reservoir, providing beautiful backdrops for wildlife viewing.
• Less crowded
Many visitors found the park to be less crowded than other safari destinations, allowing for a more relaxed and enjoyable experience.
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