Discover the Untamed Beauty of Maduru Oya National Park
Explore the diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes of Maduru Oya National Park, a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts in Sri Lanka.
A brief summary to Maduru Oya National Park
- Manampitiya-Aralaganwila-Maduru Oya Rd, LK
- +94273279207
Maduru Oya National Park, nestled in the heart of Sri Lanka, is a breathtaking haven for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Spanning over 58,000 hectares, this sprawling national park is renowned for its rich biodiversity, including elephants, leopards, and a variety of endemic bird species. As you traverse its winding trails, you’ll encounter lush forests, serene lakes, and sprawling grasslands, making it an ideal destination for both adventure seekers and those looking to unwind in nature's embrace. The park is particularly famous for its picturesque landscapes, dominated by the tranquil Maduru Oya Reservoir, which serves as a vital water source for the surrounding wildlife. Here, visitors can enjoy a range of activities, from guided safari tours to birdwatching, providing ample opportunities to witness the rich tapestry of life that flourishes within this protected area. The best time to visit is during the dry season from May to September when wildlife sightings are more frequent. For those looking to immerse themselves in the local ecosystem, Maduru Oya offers a unique chance to explore ancient ruins and archaeological sites, revealing the historical significance of this region. The park's serene atmosphere is perfect for photography, allowing visitors to capture stunning sunsets over the horizon or the playful antics of the wildlife. In addition to its natural wonders, Maduru Oya National Park is easily accessible from various parts of the country, making it a convenient stop on your Sri Lankan adventure. Whether you are trekking through the wilderness or simply soaking up the tranquil surroundings, a visit to Maduru Oya is sure to be a memorable experience steeped in the beauty of nature.
Local tips
- Visit during the dry season for the best wildlife sightings.
- Consider joining a guided safari for an informative experience.
- Bring binoculars for birdwatching and a camera for stunning photography.
- Pack plenty of water and snacks, as facilities inside the park are limited.
Getting There
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Car
From Udawalawe National Park, head northeast on the A18 road towards Thanamalwila. Continue driving for about 30 kilometers until you reach the junction with the A4 road. Turn left onto the A4 road and continue for approximately 45 kilometers until you reach the Manampitiya junction. At the Manampitiya junction, turn right onto Manampitiya-Aralaganwila-Maduru Oya Road. Follow this road for about 20 kilometers, and you will arrive at Maduru Oya National Park. The total driving time is around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic conditions.
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Public Transportation
To reach Maduru Oya National Park from Udawalawe National Park using public transportation, first, take a bus from Udawalawe to the town of Thanamalwila. Buses run frequently, and the fare is approximately 100 LKR. Once in Thanamalwila, transfer to a bus heading towards Manampitiya. This journey will take around 1 hour and cost about 150 LKR. After arriving at Manampitiya, you’ll need to hire a tuk-tuk or a taxi to cover the last 20 kilometers to Maduru Oya National Park, which will cost around 1000-1500 LKR. The total travel time can be approximately 3-4 hours.
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Tuk-Tuk
If you prefer a more direct route after reaching Manampitiya, you can hire a tuk-tuk directly from Udawalawe to Maduru Oya National Park. This option is more expensive, usually ranging between 4000 to 6000 LKR but provides a convenient and quicker way to reach the park. The journey will take about 1.5 hours.
Attractions Nearby to Maduru Oya National Park
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Danigala Circular Rock
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Danigala / Alien Mountain
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Pimburattewa Tank
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සිතූ Ali අනාථාගාරය
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Maha Oya Hot Water Springs
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Maha Oya Lake
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Pulligoda Rajamaha Viharaya
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Dewagala Archaeological Site
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Dimbulagala Aranya Senasanaya ( Dimbulagala Forest Monastery )
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Namal Pokuna Temple Ruins/ නාමල් පොකුණ
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Pathagala Aranya Senasanaya ( Pathagala Forest Monastery )
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pathagala Rajamaha viharaya
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GreenBees Nature Farm
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Wasgamuwa National Park Visitor center & museum
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Aluththarama Weva
Landmarks nearby to Maduru Oya National Park
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Little Sigiriya
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Flood Plains National Park
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padivettina malai
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freedom place ශ්රී ලංකා
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Ulpathagama wewa
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Pullaiyar Adi
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Archaeological Museum Complex
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Parakrama Samudraya View Point
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Deepa Uyana
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Polonnaruwe Slab Inscription at the North Entrance to the Citadel
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Palace of King Nishshanka Malla
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පොළොන්නරුව උතුරු දොරටුව අසල පුවරු ලිපිය
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Eastern Gate
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Polonnaruwa Sivan Kovil
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Polannaruwa historical place