Udawalawe National Park

Udawalawe Overview

Udawalawe National Park, locally known as උඩවලව ජාතික උද්‍යානය in Sinhala, is a celebrated wildlife sanctuary located in the southern part of Sri Lanka. Covering an area of approximately 119 square miles (308 square kilometers), this park is a haven for nature enthusiasts and wildlife photographers. It lies within the Sabaragamuwa and Uva Provinces and is centered around the Udawalawe Reservoir, providing both natural beauty and critical water resources for its flora and fauna.

The terrain of Udawalawe National Park is a blend of open grasslands, marshes, and scrublands interspersed with occasional pockets of dense forests. This diverse landscape is largely the result of the area’s conversion from farmland and its subsequent designation as a protected zone in 1972. The park features striking geological elements, including the Walawe River, which nourishes the lush vegetation and supports the thriving wildlife. The centerpiece, the Udawalawe Reservoir, creates a dramatic backdrop to the otherwise arid expanse, particularly during the golden hours of dawn and dusk.

The park is most famous for its large population of Asian elephants (Elephas maximus maximus), which can often be observed in herds of varying sizes, making it one of the best places in the world to see these gentle giants in their natural habitat. Other mammals include leopards, sloth bears, sambar deer, wild boars, and the endemic toque macaque. Bird enthusiasts will be delighted by the rich avifauna, with species such as the Sri Lanka grey hornbill, serpent eagle, and various waterbirds gracing the skies and wetlands. The reservoir attracts migratory birds like the painted stork and the spot-billed pelican, making it a year-round birding hotspot.

Popular features of the park include the Elephant Transit Home, where orphaned elephant calves are cared for before being reintroduced into the wild. Visitors can also enjoy the mesmerizing landscapes of the reservoir, especially during sunrise and sunset. The rich biodiversity, along with easy accessibility from major towns like Ratnapura and Hambantota, makes Udawalawe a favorite destination for both local and international travelers.

Safaris are the most common way to experience the park, with jeeps available for guided tours. These excursions often last for a few hours, providing an intimate look at the diverse wildlife and ecosystems. Photographers and nature lovers find the park especially rewarding, as it offers numerous opportunities for close encounters with animals in their natural surroundings. Additionally, birdwatching enthusiasts often visit with specialized guides to spot rare and migratory species.

Udawalawe faces conservation challenges, particularly from human-wildlife conflicts as surrounding communities expand their agricultural activities. However, the park has made notable strides in conservation efforts, including the success of the Elephant Transit Home and initiatives to educate the public on coexisting with wildlife. The management’s efforts to sustain the delicate balance between conservation and tourism ensure that the park remains a pristine refuge for future generations.

Park Map

Udawalawe National Park Highlights

Wildlife

Udawalawe National Park, located in southern Sri Lanka, is renowned for its stunning landscapes and exceptional wildlife. The park is particularly famous for its elephants, but it also hosts a wide variety of other fascinating species, making it a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts. Below are some of the popular non-avian species found in Udawalawe National Park:

Sri Lankan Elephant
The iconic Sri Lankan elephant is a subspecies of the Asian elephant. These majestic creatures roam the park in large herds, making Udawalawe one of the best places in the world to observe them in their natural habitat.

Sri Lankan Leopard
Though elusive and rare, the Sri Lankan leopard is a top predator in the park. This subspecies of leopard is endemic to Sri Lanka and plays a crucial role in maintaining the ecological balance.

Golden Jackal
The golden jackal is a canid species found in the park, known for its adaptability and cunning hunting strategies. It often scavenges but can also hunt small prey independently.

Water Buffalo
Wild water buffalo roam the park’s wetlands and grasslands. These large herbivores are vital for maintaining the ecosystem by influencing vegetation dynamics.

Sloth Bear
A rare sighting, the sloth bear is a shaggy-coated bear that feeds on insects, fruits, and honey. It is nocturnal and typically shy around humans.

Mugger Crocodile
The mugger crocodile is commonly seen in the park’s water bodies. It is a freshwater species that preys on fish, birds, and small mammals.

Sri Lankan Spotted Deer
Also known as the chital, this species is a common herbivore in the park. Their spotted coat provides excellent camouflage in the dense vegetation.

Indian Pangolin
This elusive, nocturnal mammal is known for its protective keratin scales and diet of ants and termites. It is a rare and fascinating sight.

Indian Star Tortoise
A small and beautifully patterned tortoise, it can be spotted in the dry areas of the park. It primarily feeds on grasses and fruits.

Asian Palm Civet
A small, nocturnal mammal, the Asian palm civet is recognized for its ability to adapt to various habitats. It feeds on fruits, insects, and small vertebrates.

Birds

Udawalawe National Park is also a paradise for bird lovers, offering a diverse array of avian species. Below are ten of the more popular bird species that can be observed in the park:

Changeable Hawk-Eagle
This medium-sized raptor is known for its striking appearance and sharp hunting skills. It preys on reptiles, mammals, and birds.

Malabar Pied Hornbill
A large bird with a distinctive casque on its beak, the Malabar pied hornbill feeds on fruits and plays a crucial role in seed dispersal.

Sri Lanka Junglefowl
The national bird of Sri Lanka, the junglefowl is a brightly colored bird often seen foraging on the forest floor.

Crested Serpent Eagle
A powerful bird of prey, the crested serpent eagle specializes in hunting snakes and other reptiles. Its loud, piercing calls are unmistakable.

Grey-Headed Fish Eagle
Found near water bodies, this eagle is a skilled hunter of fish. Its massive wings and soaring flight are a spectacular sight.

Indian Peafowl
Known for its vibrant plumage and courtship displays, the Indian peafowl is a familiar and majestic sight in the park.

Black-Headed Ibis
This wading bird is commonly seen near wetlands, feeding on fish, insects, and small invertebrates.

Brown Fish Owl
A large owl species, it is nocturnal and preys on fish, amphibians, and small mammals. Its haunting calls can be heard at night.

Common Kingfisher
This small but vividly colored bird is often seen perched near water, waiting to dive for fish.

Painted Stork
A large wading bird with bright pink tail feathers, the painted stork feeds on fish and other aquatic creatures in the park’s wetlands.