Travel Guide to Udawalawe National Park
Explore the stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife of Udawalawe National Park, a must-visit for nature lovers in Sri Lanka.
A brief summary to Udawalawe National Park
- LK
Discover the Wild Wonders of Udawalawe National Park
Udawalawe National Park, located in the heart of Sri Lanka, is a remarkable destination that captivates every traveler with its stunning scenery and rich biodiversity. Spanning over 30,000 hectares, this national park is renowned for its large population of Asian elephants, making it one of the best places in the world to observe these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. Visitors can embark on exhilarating safari tours, providing an opportunity to witness not only elephants but also a variety of other wildlife, including water buffalo, spotted deer, and an array of bird species that thrive in this vibrant ecosystem. The park's landscape is a blend of open grasslands, shimmering reservoirs, and lush forests, offering a picturesque backdrop for photography enthusiasts. The Udawalawe Reservoir, in particular, serves as a central point, attracting numerous animals and providing a stunning setting for leisurely picnics. As you explore the park, you may also encounter local flora and fauna, including rare species and endemic plants that highlight the importance of conservation in this unique environment. Visiting Udawalawe National Park is not just about wildlife; it’s also a chance to connect with nature and experience the serene beauty of Sri Lanka's countryside. The park is open year-round, with the best time to visit generally being during the dry season, when animals are more easily spotted. Whether you're an avid photographer, a nature lover, or simply looking for a peaceful escape, Udawalawe National Park offers an unforgettable experience that showcases the rich natural heritage of Sri Lanka.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best chance to see wildlife.
- Bring binoculars and a camera to capture the diverse bird species and elephants.
- Consider hiring a local guide for an enriched experience and deeper insight into the ecosystem.
- Stay hydrated and wear sun protection, as the sun can be quite strong during the day.
- Respect wildlife by maintaining a safe distance and following park regulations.
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving from Galle, take the A2 highway towards Colombo. After approximately 45 kilometers, look for the signs directing you to the A4 highway towards Embilipitiya. Continue on A4 for about 70 kilometers until you reach the town of Embilipitiya. From Embilipitiya, follow the signs for Udawalawe National Park, which is roughly 15 kilometers away. The park entrance is well-marked and you should arrive in about 1.5 to 2 hours from Galle, depending on traffic.
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Public Bus
From Galle, take a bus to Colombo from the main bus station. Once in Colombo, transfer to a bus heading to Embilipitiya. The bus ride takes approximately 3 to 4 hours. Upon arriving in Embilipitiya, you can catch a local bus or tuk-tuk to Udawalawe National Park, which is about 15 kilometers away. Total travel time can be around 5 to 6 hours including transfer times.
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Taxi or Ride-Hailing Service
For a more comfortable and direct route, consider hiring a taxi or using a ride-hailing service like PickMe from your location in Southern Province. The fare from Galle to Udawalawe National Park generally ranges from 5,000 to 8,000 LKR, depending on the type of vehicle and time of day. The journey will take about 1.5 to 2 hours.
Attractions Nearby to Udawalawe National Park
- Nature Kingdom Meditation Center & Resort
- Udawalawe National Park Safari (Isuru Guide Tours)
- Udawalawe Safari jeep tours by pathum
- Suranga Safari Service and Rooms Udawalawe
- Athla Safari Udawalawa
- Udawalawe Safari jeep
- Udawalawa Safari Ticket Counter
- Supun Safari Jeep Service
- Udawalawe wild(Ronde) Safari
- Silva Safari Udawalawe
- Udawalawa National Park - WILD EYE SAFARI
- Udawalawe National Park Safari
- jungle muru safari
- Udawalawe vikings safari sri lanka.
- Udawalawe National Park Jeep Safari Service by Udawalawa.com
Landmarks nearby to Udawalawe National Park
- Udawalawe National Park
- Udawalawe National Park Safari (Isuru Guide Tours)
- Elephant Trail
- Udawalawe National Park Safari
- Udawalawe jeep with gaide kuma Safari
- Buddika Safari & Resort
- Elephant Safari Hotel
- Udawalawa Reservoir
- Udawalawe Safari jeep tour with sujee
- Eliyanth Udawalawe
- Superson Family Guest
- Splendid Lake ViewSafari Lodge
- Adambari Safari Resort
- Induwara Safari Resort
- Elephant Transit Home