WHY
Unmatched Elephant Gatherings
Udawalawe National Park is one of the best places in Sri Lanka to witness large elephant herds - one of the most reliable locations in Asia to see wild elephants. During the dry season, hundreds of elephants congregate around the Udawalawe Reservoir, providing spectacular viewing opportunities.
Beyond elephants, Udawalawe is home to over 160 bird species, 23 mammal species including leopards, sloth bears, and sambar deer, as well as numerous reptiles. The park's biodiversity is truly remarkable, making it a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts and bird watchers.
Excellent Year-Round Destination
Udawalawe can be visited year-round, with each season offering unique experiences. The dry season (May to September) is ideal for elephant viewing as they gather around water sources, while the wet season (October to January) brings lush landscapes, migratory birds, and excellent birdwatching opportunities.
Photography Opportunities
Udawalawe National Park is a photographer's dream, offering endless opportunities to capture stunning images of elephants, wildlife, landscapes, and beautiful Sri Lankan sunsets. Whether you're a professional or an amateur, the park provides a rich canvas for photography.
Close Proximity to Southern Attractions
Udawalawe is perfectly located near Sri Lanka's southern coast and hill country, making it ideal for travelers exploring Ella, Yala National Park, or the southern beaches. The famous Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home is also nearby, creating an unforgettable wildlife-focused Sri Lankan adventure.
WHEN
Dry Season (May to September)
The dry months are the best time for spotting wildlife in Udawalawe. The vegetation is sparse, making it easier to see animals, and water sources are limited, so elephants and other wildlife congregate around the Udawalawe reservoir in large numbers.
Days are warm and pleasant, while early mornings can be cool and refreshing. This makes it comfortable for safari game drives.
August and September are peak months for elephant viewing, when you can witness hundreds of elephants together. This is the ultimate time for elephant enthusiasts and photographers.
Wet Season (October to January)
The wet season brings rain, transforming the park into a lush green paradise with abundant vegetation. This is the time to see the park at its most beautiful and verdant.
The wet season is the best time for birdwatching, as migratory birds arrive from northern regions, and many species display their breeding plumage. Over 160 bird species can be spotted during this period.
The park is less crowded during the wet season, which can make for a more peaceful and intimate experience. Afternoon showers are common but usually brief, and the rain freshens up the landscape beautifully.
Shoulder Seasons (April and October)
These transitional periods between the wet and dry seasons offer a mix of advantages.
In April, the park is still green from the rains, but wildlife is starting to become easier to spot as vegetation begins to thin.
In October, conditions vary but can offer good wildlife viewing with fewer crowds. Shoulder seasons generally see fewer visitors than peak season, allowing for a more relaxed safari experience.
WHERE
Udawalawe National Park is located in the Sabaragamuwa Province of Sri Lanka, approximately 165 kilometers from Colombo. Covering approximately 30,821 hectares, the park is centered around the Udawalawe Reservoir, which was built in 1972 as part of an irrigation and hydroelectric project.
Udawalawe National Park is renowned for its large elephant population - one of the most reliable places in Asia to see wild elephants. The park is also home to a rich variety of wildlife including leopards, fishing cats, sambar deer, spotted deer, wild boar, sloth bears, and numerous bird species. Visitors can enjoy an exceptional safari experience with comfortable jeep safaris led by experienced local guides.
The park offers activities like morning and evening game drives in 4x4 safari jeeps for optimal wildlife viewing. Additionally, Udawalawe's proximity to Ella, Yala National Park, and the southern coastal areas makes it an ideal addition to any southern Sri Lanka itinerary. Many visitors combine Udawalawe safaris with visits to the Elephant Transit Home and hill country attractions for a complete Sri Lankan experience.
