Udawalawe National Park

National park Hambegamuwa, Uva, Sri Lanka

What to expect

Udawalawe National Park is a national park on the boundary of Sabaragamuwa and Uva Provinces in Sri Lanka. The park was created to provide a sanctuary for wild animals displaced by the construction of the Udawalawe Reservoir on the Walawe River, as well as to protect the catchment of the reservoir. The reserve covers 30,821 hectares of land area and was established on 30 June 1972. Udawalawe is an important habitat for water birds and Sri Lankan elephants. It is a popular tourist destination and the third-most visited park in the country. The park's landscape is dominated by plains, with some mountainous areas, and features a variety of flora and fauna, including 94 plants, 21 fish, 12 amphibians, 33 reptiles, 184 birds, and 43 mammals

Plan your family visit to the Udawalawe National Park with these blog insights 👇

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Visiting the south of Sri Lanka, from beach to safari, what to do?

Visiting the south of Sri Lanka, from beach to safari, what to do?
This family's experience:

Activities: We went on a safari in the national park, hoping to see elephants. We were lucky to spot many elephants and other wildlife, making it a memorable experience

Highlights: We loved the wildlife and the natural beauty of the park. Seeing the elephants up close was incredible ✨

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Udawalawe NP with young kids

Udawalawe NP with young kids
This family's experience:

Activities: We went on a three-hour safari with our kids and saw many animals, including elephants, peacocks, monkeys, water buffalo, and crocodiles

Highlights: The kids loved bouncing along in the open jeep and seeing the animals in their natural habitat ✨

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My favorite in Sri Lanka: Sigiriya

My favorite in Sri Lanka: Sigiriya
This family's experience:

Activities: We went on a safari in the park and saw lots of elephants

Highlights: We had a great time and saw lots of elephants up close ✨

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The Perfect Family Highlights Tour of Sri Lanka

The Perfect Family Highlights Tour of Sri Lanka
This family's experience:

Activities: We visited Udawalawe National Park to see some of the countries spectacular wildlife including water buffalo, crocodiles, peacocks, storks, foxes and lizards and yes elephants!

Highlights: Several friends have recommended staying nearby at family-friendly Kottawatta Village, and they can organise a 3-hour morning safari for you ✨

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What to visit, what to see during a family trip to Sri Lanka?

What to visit, what to see during a family trip to Sri Lanka?
This family's experience:

Activities: We visited the Udawalawe National Park

Highlights: We enjoyed the safari and seeing the elephants ✨