Udawalawe National Park
Facts and practical information
Nestled in the Moneragala region of Sri Lanka, Udawalawe National Park is a sprawling expanse of natural beauty and wildlife. Spanning over 30,000 hectares, this national park is renowned for its large population of elephants, making it the perfect destination for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Visitors to Udawalawe National Park can embark on thrilling safari adventures, where they can witness these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. The park is also home to a diverse array of other wildlife, including water buffalo, deer, and a variety of bird species, offering ample opportunities for wildlife spotting and bird watching.
In addition to its rich wildlife, Udawalawe National Park boasts stunning landscapes, characterized by lush grasslands, dense forests, and shimmering reservoirs. The picturesque Udawalawe Reservoir, which is central to the park, provides a scenic backdrop for visitors as they explore the area.
For those seeking a deeper understanding of the park's ecosystem and wildlife, Udawalawe National Park offers educational experiences, including guided tours and educational programs. These experiences provide valuable insight into the park's conservation efforts and the importance of preserving its natural heritage.
After a day of exploration, visitors can unwind and take in the natural beauty of the park at one of its designated picnic areas, where they can enjoy a leisurely meal amidst the tranquility of the surroundings.
Best Ways to Experience the Park
Wildlife
AnimalsSee what popular animal species you can meet in this location.
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
Sri Lankan elephant
The Sri Lankan elephant is a distinctive subspecies of the Asian elephant, endemic to Sri Lanka. Since 1986, the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has classified them as endangered, primarily due to habitat loss, degradation, and fragmentation.
Mammals
Wild Boar, Pig, Hog
Wild boars, also known as wild swine or wild pigs, are fascinating creatures found across many parts of the world, including Europe, Asia, and North and South America. Due to human activities, they have spread extensively, making them one of the most adaptable...
Mammals
Rusty-spotted cat
The rusty-spotted cat, one of the smallest members of the feline family, is native to India and Sri Lanka, with recent sightings in Nepal. Unfortunately, it is classified as Near Threatened due to habitat loss and fragmentation.
Mammals
Moneragala