Explore the Untamed Wilderness of Udawalawa National Park
Discover the wildlife wonders of Udawalawa National Park, where nature's beauty and adventure blend seamlessly in Sri Lanka's breathtaking landscapes.
A brief summary to Udawalawa National Park Handagiriya Entrance
- HQCX+HFQ, Weligepola-Handagiriya Rd, Balangoda, LK
- +94452223154
- Monday 8 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 8 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 8 am-6 pm
- Thursday 8 am-6 pm
- Friday 8 am-6 pm
- Saturday 8 am-6 pm
- Sunday 8 am-6 pm
Udawalawa National Park is a captivating wildlife sanctuary located in Sri Lanka, renowned for its rich biodiversity and stunning landscapes. This national park is home to an array of wildlife, including elephants, deer, and a variety of bird species, making it a paradise for nature lovers and wildlife photographers. Visitors can enjoy thrilling safari rides that navigate through the park's scenic routes, allowing for close encounters with the majestic creatures that roam freely in their natural habitat. The park spans vast expanses of open grassland, shimmering reservoirs, and dense forests, providing a diverse ecosystem that supports countless species. The best time to visit Udawalawa is during the dry season, from May to September, when animals congregate around the water sources, increasing the chances of spotting them. The park is not only about wildlife; it also boasts beautiful views, making it perfect for photography enthusiasts. Guided tours are available, ensuring that you can learn about the unique flora and fauna from knowledgeable guides who share insights into the park’s conservation efforts. Additionally, the park has well-maintained roads and viewing points, making it accessible for all ages. As you explore the park, be sure to carry your camera to capture unforgettable moments and remember to respect the wildlife by maintaining a safe distance. Udawalawa National Park is more than just a destination; it’s an experience that connects you with nature and the wildlife that thrives within it.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best wildlife sightings.
- Bring binoculars for bird watching and a camera with a zoom lens for capturing distant wildlife.
- Stay hydrated and carry snacks, as the park can be quite expansive and may take time to explore.
- Respect wildlife by keeping a safe distance and not feeding the animals.
- Consider hiring a local guide for an informative and enriching experience.
Getting There
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Car
If you're traveling by car, start from the main entrance of Udawalawe National Park, which is located on the A12 road. Head northeast on the A12 for about 3 kilometers until you reach the junction with the Weligepola-Handagiriya Road. Turn left onto Weligepola-Handagiriya Road and continue for approximately 12 kilometers. You will see signs for the Handagiriya Entrance. The entrance is located at GPS coordinates 6.571461, 80.798741, which you can enter into your GPS device for precise navigation.
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Public Transportation
For public transportation, you can take a bus from the Udawalawe main bus station to Balangoda. Look for buses that go towards Balangoda, which should run frequently. The fare is typically around 100 LKR. After arriving at Balangoda, you can hire a tuk-tuk or a local taxi to take you to the Handagiriya Entrance. The distance from Balangoda to the Handagiriya Entrance is about 10 kilometers, and the tuk-tuk ride will cost approximately 300-500 LKR.
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Tuk-Tuk
If you are already within the vicinity of Udawalawe National Park, you can hire a tuk-tuk from nearby lodges or accommodations. Tuk-tuks are a popular form of transport in the area. Ensure to negotiate the fare beforehand; the cost to Handagiriya Entrance from nearby locations should range from 500 to 1000 LKR depending on the distance.
Attractions Nearby to Udawalawa National Park Handagiriya Entrance
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Diyavini Ella Falls
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Kottimbulwala Raja Maha Viharaya
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Limestone Pool - Hunugal Pokuna (හුණුගල් පොකුණ)-Balangoda
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Duwili Ella Waterfall
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Udawalawe National Park
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Nature Kingdom Meditation Center & Resort
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Kolambage ara view point
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Uda Walawe Reservoir
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Udawalawe National Park Safari (Isuru Guide Tours)
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Udawalawe Reservoir
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Udawalawe Safari Jeep Tours
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Athla Safari Udawalawa
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Udawalawe Safari & Tours (Black Tiger Service)
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Supun Safari Jeep Service
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Elephant Feeding Area
Landmarks nearby to Udawalawa National Park Handagiriya Entrance
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Reenagala Camp Site
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Kuragala Ancient Buddhist Monastery
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Ceylon 1850- Sri Lankan Agriculture Gem Mine and Village Experience
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Sabaragamuwa University of Sri Lanka
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Elephant Trail
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Udawalawe Game Watchers Safaris
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Elephant Next Door Resort
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Udawalawe Park Safari
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Udawalawe Jeep Safari Services
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Udawalawe Safari Jeep Service
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Elephant Safari Hotel
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Udawalawa Safari Service from TUSKER
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Forest Edge Safari Villa
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Lizard Safari Lodge
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Green View Safari Paradise