Discover the Untamed Beauty of Lahugala Kitulana National Park
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife at Lahugala Kitulana National Park, a true gem in Sri Lanka's natural heritage.
A brief summary to Lahugala Kitulana National Park
- A4, LK
Lahugala Kitulana National Park is a pristine haven for nature enthusiasts, located in the eastern region of Sri Lanka. This national park is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, featuring lush greenery, serene water reservoirs, and a rich variety of flora and fauna. The park is home to three major water reservoirs, including Lahugala Maha Wewa, which not only sustains the diverse wildlife but also enhances the beauty of the surroundings. Visitors can enjoy the tranquil atmosphere and the sounds of nature as they explore this magnificent area. Wildlife enthusiasts will find Lahugala Kitulana particularly rewarding, as the park shelters a myriad of animal species, including elephants, leopards, and a variety of bird species. The opportunity to witness these majestic creatures in their natural habitat is a highlight for many visitors. In addition to its wildlife, the park offers several scenic walking trails that provide an immersive experience of the region's natural beauty. For those seeking adventure, Lahugala Kitulana National Park is an ideal location for trekking and birdwatching. The park is open daily from 6 AM to 6 PM, making it convenient for tourists to plan their visits. While exploring the park, it is advisable to carry sufficient water and snacks, as facilities within the park are limited. Whether you're seeking tranquility in nature or an exciting wildlife encounter, Lahugala Kitulana National Park is a must-visit destination that showcases the natural wonders of Sri Lanka.
Local tips
- Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for the best wildlife sightings.
- Bring binoculars for birdwatching and a camera to capture the stunning scenery.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes as the terrain can be uneven in certain areas.
- Pack insect repellent to ensure a comfortable visit, especially during warmer months.
- Check the weather forecast before your visit to avoid heavy rains.
Getting There
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Car
From Udawalawe National Park, head east on the A4 road towards Ampara. Continue driving for approximately 40 kilometers. You will pass through several small towns. Keep an eye out for the signs indicating Lahugala Kitulana National Park. The park entrance is located on your right side off the A4 road. There are no significant tolls on this route, but ensure your vehicle has enough fuel for the journey.
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Public Transportation (Bus)
From Udawalawe, you can take a bus to Ampara. Buses leave from the main bus station in Udawalawe and the fare is usually around 100-150 LKR. The journey takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on the traffic. Once you arrive in Ampara, you can catch a local bus or a three-wheeler (tuk-tuk) to Lahugala Kitulana National Park. The fare for the tuk-tuk from Ampara to the park entrance is approximately 300-400 LKR.
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Taxi
For a more convenient option, you can hire a taxi from Udawalawe to Lahugala Kitulana National Park. The taxi fare will vary depending on the negotiation, but expect to pay around 3000-4000 LKR for a one-way trip. Ensure that you agree on the fare before starting the journey. The drive will take about 1 hour.
Attractions Nearby to Lahugala Kitulana National Park
- lahugala national
- Ak’sChillcabanas
- Lahugala Magul Maha Viharaya
- Ten gates point
- Lahugala Paranagovipola Aththani Pillar
- Lahugala Kiriwehera Rajamaha Viharaya - ලාහුගල කිරිවෙහෙර රජමහ විහාරය
- Lahugala Tank
- Kunjan campsite
- Lahugala Tank View Point
- Lagoon Elephant View Point
- Ureni or Paladi Lagoon
- Arugambay Bridge View Point
- නීලගිරි මහා සෑය / Neelagiri Seya
- Pottuvil Kalapuwa
- Ansar Home
Landmarks nearby to Lahugala Kitulana National Park
- Natabun Chaithya Viharaya
- Jetwing Surf
- Arugambay Agenda
- Tharulengala Aranya Senasanaya (Karadahela Viharaya-කරදහෙළ විහාරය)
- Arugambay view point
- Main Surf Point Arugam Bay
- Elephant Rock
- සංගමන්කන්ද / Sangamankanda
- Sangamankanda Lighthouse
- Kumana national park Safari
- Kumana Safari Priyantha (SPS Nature Tours)
- Govinda Hela (Westminster Abbey) - ගෝවින්ද හෙල
- Kumana National Park Office
- Kudumbigala Sanctuary
- මාණික්කමඩු විහාරය | Manikkamadu Buddhist Temple