About Udawalawe National Park
Udawalawe National Park is one of the most famous wildlife destinations in Sri Lanka. It is widely regarded as one of the best places in Asia to experience an authentic elephant safari.
Every year, thousands of travellers from around the world visit Udawalawe. They come to enjoy unforgettable wildlife encounters and explore one of Sri Lanka’s most popular safari destinations.
History of Udawalawe National Park
Established on 30 June 1972, Udawalawe National Park was created to protect wildlife after the construction of the Udawalawe Reservoir.
The reservoir flooded large areas of forest and farmland. As a result, many wild animals, especially elephants, lost their natural habitats.
To protect these animals, the Sri Lankan government designated more than 30,800 hectares (308 square kilometres) of dry-zone forest, grasslands, wetlands, and scrubland as a national park.
Today, the Department of Wildlife Conservation manages the park. It remains one of Sri Lanka’s greatest wildlife conservation success stories.
Why Was Udawalawe National Park Created?
Before becoming a national park, this area contained forests, grasslands, farming communities, and abundant wildlife.
As development expanded, conservationists recognised the need to protect this valuable ecosystem. The establishment of Udawalawe National Park ensured that native wildlife could continue to thrive while preserving one of Sri Lanka’s most important natural environments.
Wildlife at Udawalawe National Park
oday, Udawalawe National Park Safari experiences are famous worldwide. The park offers one of the highest chances of seeing wild Sri Lankan elephants in their natural habitat.
Unlike many other national parks, elephants can be seen throughout the year.
Visitors regularly encounter:
- Elephant families
- Playful calves
- Magnificent tuskers
- Crocodiles
- Water buffalo
- Spotted deer
- Jackals
- Monkeys
- More than 200 bird species
This incredible biodiversity makes Udawalawe a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts, birdwatchers, and photographers.
Why Visitors Love Udawalawe Safari
One of the biggest advantages of an Udawalawe Safari is the park’s open landscape.
Wide grasslands, scattered forests, natural lakes, and the beautiful Udawalawe Reservoir provide excellent visibility. This allows visitors to observe wildlife safely while enjoying outstanding photography opportunities.
Whether you are an experienced wildlife enthusiast or visiting Sri Lanka for the first time, Udawalawe offers one of the country’s most rewarding safari experiences.
Experience Udawalawe with Safari Kingdom
At Udawalawe Safari Kingdom, we proudly share our passion for this extraordinary national park.
With more than 15 years of safari experience, our knowledgeable local guides help visitors discover incredible wildlife, breathtaking scenery, and fascinating stories.
Join us for an unforgettable Udawalawe National Park Safari and experience the beauty of nature like never before.
