Lahugala Kitulana National Park

Lahugala Kitulana Overview

Lahugala Kitulana National Park, locally known as ලහුගල කිතුලාන ජාතික උද්‍යානය, is a compact yet vital protected area in Sri Lanka’s Eastern Province. Covering an area of approximately 6.17 square miles (16 square kilometers), it is one of the smallest national parks in the country. Despite its modest size, the park plays a crucial role in the conservation of local wildlife and serves as a critical habitat for numerous species. Situated about 10 miles (16 kilometers) from Pottuvil and 204 miles (328 kilometers) from Colombo, the park lies along the route to the famous surfing destination of Arugam Bay.

The terrain of Lahugala Kitulana is predominantly flat, with a landscape dominated by dry monsoon forests interspersed with wetlands. Its centerpiece includes three shallow reservoirs: Lahugala, Kitulana, and Sengamuwa tanks, which serve as lifelines for both the park’s fauna and flora during the dry season. The park’s vegetation is a mixture of grasslands and scrub forests, with plants like beru grass and giant reeds flourishing around the reservoirs. These wetlands are particularly important as feeding grounds for the wildlife, making the park a hotspot for observing animals in their natural environment.

Lahugala Kitulana is best known for its elephants, with herds of up to 150 Asian elephants (Elephas maximus) frequently seen around the tanks, especially during the dry months when water and food become scarce in surrounding areas. These gentle giants are a primary draw for visitors, offering unparalleled opportunities for observation. The park is also home to an array of other mammals, including the elusive Sri Lankan leopard, sloth bears, and spotted deer. Birdwatchers will find the park equally rewarding, with a variety of avian species such as painted storks, herons, and egrets frequently spotted near the water bodies, along with vibrant kingfishers and Indian cormorants.

While the park does not boast dramatic mountain peaks or waterfalls, its serene reservoirs and the abundance of wildlife make it a tranquil and intimate setting for nature enthusiasts. Visitors often engage in wildlife safaris or birdwatching, either in guided jeeps or from designated viewing points near the reservoirs. The best time to visit is during the dry season, from May to September, when elephants congregate in large numbers around the shrinking water sources.

Conservation challenges at Lahugala Kitulana National Park include human-wildlife conflicts, particularly as elephants sometimes venture into nearby villages. Deforestation and agricultural expansion in surrounding areas also pose significant threats. However, the park’s management has implemented initiatives to mitigate these issues, including community education programs and reforestation efforts. The park’s status as a protected area under Sri Lanka’s Department of Wildlife Conservation ensures ongoing measures to safeguard its rich biodiversity.

Park Map

Lahugala Kitulana National Park Highlights

Wildlife

Lahugala Kitulana National Park, located in the Eastern Province of Sri Lanka, is one of the smallest yet most captivating national parks in the country. It is renowned for its rich biodiversity and is a haven for large mammals, reptiles, and other fascinating wildlife. The park is particularly famous for its watering holes, which attract animals during the dry season. Below are some of the popular species you might encounter at Lahugala Kitulana National Park:

Sri Lankan Elephant
The Sri Lankan elephant, a subspecies of the Asian elephant, is the most iconic species of the park. They are often seen near the Lahugala and Kitulana reservoirs, grazing on aquatic plants and grass.

Sri Lankan Leopard
This elusive big cat roams the park’s forested areas and is a top predator in the ecosystem. Sightings are rare but thrilling for visitors.

Sloth Bear
The sloth bear, known for its shaggy coat and nocturnal habits, can be found foraging for termites and honey in the park.

Water Buffalo
Wild water buffaloes frequent the grasslands and watering holes, where they graze and cool off in the muddy waters.

Spotted Deer
These graceful animals are a common sight, often seen in herds grazing in the park’s open areas.

Mugger Crocodile
This species of crocodile inhabits the park’s reservoirs and streams, basking on the banks or waiting stealthily for prey.

Indian Star Tortoise
Known for its beautifully patterned shell, the Indian star tortoise can be spotted in the drier parts of the park.

Golden Jackal
The golden jackal is a scavenger that thrives in the park, often seen in pairs or small packs.

Indian Pangolin
This shy, nocturnal mammal is covered in protective scales and can sometimes be seen at dusk searching for ants and termites.

Rusty-Spotted Cat
One of the smallest wild cats in the world, the rusty-spotted cat is a rare and fascinating species that resides in the park’s dense undergrowth.

Birds

Lahugala Kitulana National Park is also home to a remarkable array of bird species, making it a paradise for bird enthusiasts. Below are some of the popular bird species found in the park:

Sri Lanka Junglefowl
This colorful bird, the national bird of Sri Lanka, is frequently spotted in the undergrowth and open grasslands.

Malabar Pied Hornbill
A striking bird with a large yellow and black bill, the Malabar pied hornbill is often seen perched on treetops.

Peacock (Indian Peafowl)
The dazzling plumage of the peacock is a common and beautiful sight in the park.

Painted Stork
These large wading birds are often seen near water bodies, hunting for fish and crustaceans.

Grey Heron
A tall and elegant bird, the grey heron frequents the park’s wetlands and is easily recognizable by its long neck and legs.

Asian Openbill Stork
This stork, named for the gap between its mandibles, is a common visitor to the park’s marshy areas.

Black-headed Ibis
With its distinctive black head and curved bill, the black-headed ibis is often seen foraging in shallow waters.

Crested Serpent Eagle
A majestic bird of prey, the crested serpent eagle soars high above the park in search of snakes and lizards.

Brown Fish Owl
This nocturnal raptor is often heard at night and occasionally seen perched near water bodies.

White-throated Kingfisher
Known for its vibrant blue wings and red bill, the white-throated kingfisher is a frequent sight along the park’s waterways.