Maduru Oya National Park Travel Guide
Facts and practical information
Nestled in the Badulla region of Sri Lanka, Maduru Oya National Park is a hidden gem waiting to be explored by nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers. The park is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, making it a must-visit destination for those looking to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of Sri Lanka.
Spread across an area of 58,849 hectares, Maduru Oya National Park is a haven for wildlife, with a variety of species calling it home. Visitors can spot herds of elephants roaming freely in their natural habitat, as well as elusive leopards, sloth bears, and deer. Birdwatchers will also be delighted by the park's avian population, which includes colorful species such as the painted stork and the white-bellied sea eagle.
One of the highlights of a visit to Maduru Oya National Park is the opportunity to explore the park's picturesque landscapes. The park is characterized by its vast plains, dense forests, and tranquil reservoirs, creating a stunning backdrop for outdoor activities such as hiking and wildlife safaris. The park's diverse terrain also provides ample opportunities for photography, allowing visitors to capture the beauty of the natural surroundings.
For those interested in the cultural and historical aspects of the park, Maduru Oya National Park is also home to ancient archaeological sites, including ruins dating back to the Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa periods. These sites offer a glimpse into the rich history of the region, adding an extra layer of intrigue to a visit to the park.
Badulla
Maduru Oya National Park Attractions - What to See and Explore
Maduru Oya National Park offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Kokagala, Mawaragala Aranya Senasanaya, Maduru Oya Dam, Indigenous Philippine shrines and sacred grounds. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.
Maduru Oya National Park – popular in the area (distance from the center)
In the vicinity of Maduru Oya National Park, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Temple of the Tooth (Kandy), Gal Vihara (Polonnaruwa), Royal Botanical Gardens (Kandy).
Best Time To Visit Maduru Oya National Park
Learn when is the best time to travel to Maduru Oya National Park weather-wise and what to expect in each season.
Best Ways to Experience the Park
Wildlife
AnimalsSee what popular animal species you can meet in this location.
Sloth bear
The sloth bear, native to the Indian subcontinent, is a fascinating species known for its diet of fruits, ants, and termites. Sadly, it’s listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List due to habitat loss and degradation.
Mammals
Sambar deer
The sambar is a large deer species native to the Indian subcontinent, South China, and Southeast Asia. Since 2008, it has been listed as a vulnerable species on the IUCN Red List, primarily due to hunting, insurgency, and habitat destruction.
Mammals
Leopard
Leopards, belonging to the Felidae family and the genus Panthera, are among the five big cats in this group. They inhabit sub-Saharan Africa, parts of Central Asia, the Indian subcontinent, Southeast Asia, and East Asia.
Mammals
Fishing cat
The fishing cat is a captivating medium-sized wild cat native to South and Southeast Asia. Regrettably, it has been listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List since 2016. These cats are frequently found near wetlands, rivers, streams, oxbow lakes, swamps, and mangroves.
Mammals
Mugger crocodile
The mugger crocodile, also known as the marsh crocodile or broad-snouted crocodile, is a fascinating freshwater species native to regions spanning from southern Iran to the Indian subcontinent. Unfortunately, it has been listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List since...
Reptiles
Badulla