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wildlife

Udawalawe National Park

Sabaragamuwa Province
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Ideal Duration: 1-2 days
6 Highlights

About Udawalawe National Park

Udawalawe National Park is one of the best places in Asia to observe wild Asian elephants in their natural habitat. The park is home to around 500 elephants, along with water buffalo, deer, crocodiles, and numerous bird species. The nearby Elephant Transit Home rehabilitates orphaned baby elephants for release back into the wild.

Highlights

Wild elephant herds
Elephant Transit Home
Bird watching
Safari drives
Udawalawe Reservoir
See orphan elephants feeding

Top Attractions

Elephant Safari

Elephant Safari

See herds of wild elephants

Elephant Transit Home

Elephant Transit Home

Visit orphaned baby elephants

Local Cuisine

Buffalo CurdCreamy curd made from water buffalo milk, served with treacle.
Freshwater Fish CurrySpicy curry made with fresh fish from the Udawalawe reservoir.
Millet (Kurakkan) ThalapaTraditional hardy meal served with spicy meat or vegetable curries.

Cultural Etiquette

Maintain distance from wild elephants
Do not feed animals
Follow guide instructions

Seasonal Events

Elephant GatheringDry Season (May-Sept)Elephants gather near the reservoir water sources.
Sinhala & Tamil New YearAprilTraditional festivities in nearby villages.