Udawalawe National Park

Overview

Udawalawe National Park is a wildlife sanctuary in Sri Lanka, known for its diverse wildlife including elephants, leopards, and various bird species. The park is centered around the Udawalawe Reservoir, providing a unique and scenic landscape.

Important habitat for Sri Lankan elephants and a key biodiversity area.

Wildlife Sanctuary Nature Reserve

Location

Address

Udawalawe

Neighborhood: Tissamaharama

Coordinates

6.384600, 80.856900

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday 6:00 AM - 6:00 PM

tuesday 6:00 AM - 6:00 PM

wednesday 6:00 AM - 6:00 PM

thursday 6:00 AM - 6:00 PM

friday 6:00 AM - 6:00 PM

saturday 6:00 AM - 6:00 PM

sunday 6:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Admission

Adults

$20

Children

$10

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

June-September

Best Time of Day

Early morning

Higher chances of spotting wildlife, cooler temperatures

Duration Recommendations

Minimum

2 hours

Recommended

4 hours

Full Experience

Full day safari

Seasonal Highlights

spring

Warm with occasional rain

• Birdwatching opportunities
• Lush landscapes

summer

Hot and dry

• Elephant sightings
• Dry weather

autumn

Cooler with occasional rain

• Migratory birds
• Cooler temperatures

winter

Hot and dry

• Peaceful environment
• Fewer visitors

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

Book a safari in advance
Bring insect repellent
Wear neutral-colored clothing

What to Bring

essential

Sunscreen Hat Binoculars

seasonal

Raincoat Umbrella

not allowed

Loud music Feeding animals

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: Moderate

• Dehydration
• Sun exposure

Medical facilities: Basic first aid available

Payment Information

Accepted

Cash, Credit cards

Currency

Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR)

Typical Costs

entry $20

safari tour $40

food $10

souvenirs $15

Dress Code

Neutral-colored clothing, Comfortable shoes, hat, Closed-toe shoes, Brightly colored clothing

Booking Tips

• At least 1 week
• Official park website or local tour operators
• 48 hours in advance
• Private safaris

Amenities

Restrooms

Gift shop

Atm

Wifi

Lockers

Wheelchair rental

Stroller rental

On site restaurant

Cafe

Picnic areas

Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

Udawalawe National Park App

Size: 30 MB

Features: Park map, Wildlife guide, Booking

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Cafes

Charging Stations: Visitor center

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: Matala Rajapaksa International Airport (CMB)

Distance: 180 km

Travel Time: 4 hours

taxi

$60 4 hours

public_transport

$15 5 hours

From City Center

Distance: 20 km

bus

$2 30 min

taxi

$20 25 min

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: Important wildlife sanctuary and a key part of Sri Lankan biodiversity

Historical Significance: Established in 1972 to protect the habitat of Sri Lankan elephants

Insider Tips

Best views from the reservoir
Local guides know the best spots

Local Recommendations

• Try local Sri Lankan cuisine
• Ask for a knowledgeable guide

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Ao

thank_you Istuti

where_is Kota kiyala

how_much Kohomada

beautiful Sundara

ticket Ticket

Guide Languages: English, Sinhala, Tamil

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

Udawalawe Reservoir

Best Time: Early morning

Tips: Capture the reservoir and wildlife

Result: Stunning landscapes and wildlife photos

#Udawalawe #Wildlife #Nature

Photography Rules

allowed areas All outdoor areas

prohibited areas Restricted zones

flash photography Only with permission

commercial photography Permit needed

drone policy Prohibited

tripod policy Allowed with permission

selfie sticks Allowed

Nearby Attractions

Tissamaharama Raja Maha Vihara

Distance: 15 km

Walking: N/A

Type: Historical Site

Bundala National Park

Distance: 30 km

Walking: N/A

Type: National Park

Reviews

4.6

Based on 850 reviews

Recent Visitor Tips

"Book a safari early"
"Visit in the morning"
"Bring binoculars"

Contact Information

+94 47 225 8000

info@udawalawepark.lk

www.udawalawepark.lk

Social Media

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