Explore the Untamed Beauty of Maduru Oya National Park
Discover the enchanting landscapes and diverse wildlife of Maduru Oya National Park, a must-visit destination in Sri Lanka for every nature lover.
A brief summary to Maduru Oya National Park
- Manampitiya-Aralaganwila-Maduru Oya Rd, LK
- +94273279207
- Visit website
- Monday 6 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 6 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 6 am-6 pm
- Thursday 6 am-6 pm
- Friday 6 am-6 pm
- Saturday 6 am-6 pm
- Sunday 6 am-6 pm
Maduru Oya National Park is a stunning expanse of natural beauty, located in the heart of Sri Lanka. Covering over 58,800 hectares, this national park is a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. The park is renowned for its rich biodiversity, home to a variety of flora and fauna, including elephants, leopards, and numerous bird species. Visitors can enjoy the picturesque landscapes, which include rolling hills, shimmering lakes, and dense forests, making it an ideal location for photography and exploration. The serene atmosphere and the vibrant wildlife provide an unforgettable experience that connects visitors with nature. In addition to its natural attractions, Maduru Oya National Park is steeped in history, with ancient temples and archaeological sites scattered throughout the region. These cultural landmarks add an intriguing layer to your visit, allowing tourists to delve into Sri Lanka's rich heritage while appreciating its natural splendor. The park is open daily from 6 AM to 6 PM, providing ample time for visitors to explore its vast trails and scenic viewpoints. For those seeking adventure, guided safaris are available, offering a unique chance to observe wildlife in their natural habitat. Whether you're an avid birdwatcher, a photography enthusiast, or just looking to escape into nature, Maduru Oya National Park promises an unforgettable experience.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best chances to see wildlife.
- Bring binoculars for birdwatching and a good camera to capture the stunning scenery.
- Stay hydrated and wear comfortable shoes for walking the trails.
- Consider hiring a local guide to enhance your wildlife viewing experience.
- Respect the wildlife and maintain a safe distance from animals.
Getting There
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Bus
From Polonnaruwa, head to the Polonnaruwa bus station, which is located near the city center. Look for a bus heading towards Manampitiya or Aralaganwila. Ensure to check the bus schedule, as buses may not run frequently. The journey to Manampitiya will take approximately 1 to 1.5 hours. Once you reach Manampitiya bus station, disembark and look for local transport options such as tuk-tuks or three-wheelers. You can negotiate a fare to Maduru Oya National Park, which is about 15-20 minutes away from Manampitiya.
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Tuk-tuk
If you prefer, you can take a tuk-tuk directly from Polonnaruwa to Maduru Oya National Park. Negotiate a fare with the driver before starting your journey. The ride will take approximately 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on traffic. Ensure that the driver knows the destination well, as it is a popular site. Enjoy the scenic views along the way.
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Bicycle Rental
For the more adventurous, consider renting a bicycle in Polonnaruwa. From the center of Polonnaruwa, head towards the A11 road and cycle towards Manampitiya. The distance is about 30-35 km and will take roughly 2-3 hours depending on your riding speed. Once you reach Manampitiya, you will need to hire a tuk-tuk or seek local guidance to reach Maduru Oya National Park, which is a short distance away.
Attractions Nearby to Maduru Oya National Park
- Danigala Circular Rock
- Danigala / Alien Mountain
- Pimburattewa Tank
- සිතූ Ali අනාථාගාරය
- Maha Oya Hot Water Springs
- Maha Oya Lake
- Pulligoda Rajamaha Viharaya
- Dewagala Archaeological Site
- Dimbulagala Aranya Senasanaya ( Dimbulagala Forest Monastery )
- Namal Pokuna Temple Ruins/ නාමල් පොකුණ
- Pathagala Aranya Senasanaya ( Pathagala Forest Monastery )
- pathagala Rajamaha viharaya
- GreenBees Nature Farm
- Wasgamuwa National Park Visitor center & museum
- Aluththarama Weva
Landmarks nearby to Maduru Oya National Park
- Little Sigiriya
- Flood Plains National Park
- padivettina malai
- freedom place ශ්රී ලංකා
- Ulpathagama wewa
- Pullaiyar Adi
- Archaeological Museum Complex
- Parakrama Samudraya View Point
- Deepa Uyana
- Polonnaruwe Slab Inscription at the North Entrance to the Citadel
- Palace of King Nishshanka Malla
- පොළොන්නරුව උතුරු දොරටුව අසල පුවරු ලිපිය
- Eastern Gate
- Polonnaruwa Sivan Kovil
- Polannaruwa historical place