Udawalawe National Park Safari with Elephant Transit Home Visit

Udawalawe , Sri Lanka

Udawalawe National Park Safari with Elephant Transit Home Visit

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(7 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Udawalawe National Park, the sixth largest animal sanctuary of Sri Lanka, is located 112 miles (180 km) from Colombo in the south-central sector of the island. Sri Lanka’s Udawalawe National Park is best known for having a huge elephant population. The Elephant Transit Home is one of the largest animal sanctuaries on the island, where young elephants are cared for before being released back into the park.

Available options

Jeep with Tickets (3 Hrs)

LK50A04C00: Udawalawe National Park Private Safari and Elephant Transit Home with Guide including Jeep with Tickets (3 hrs)<br/>Pickup included

Jeep with No Tickets (3 hrs)

LK50A04C00: Udawalawe National Park Private Safari and Elephant Transit Home with Guide including Jeep with No Tickets (3 hrs)<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Experienced Driver (Also your tracker).

All taxes and service charges.

One Mineral Water Bottle Per Person.

All Entrance Fees (If you select "Jeep with Tickets")

Elephant Transit Home Visit

4x4 Safari Jeep (Maximum of 6 Passengers per jeep).

Free Pickup/Drop off from/to any location within the radius of 5KM from the Park Gate and Udawalawe.

Detailed itinerary

Udawalawe is undoubtedly one of the best places in Sri Lanka to see wild Asian Elephants throughout the year. Usually, you will have a better chance to spot herds of elephants if you choose morning departure. There are about 500 elephants in the park and they often roam in herds of up to 100. Udawalawe National Park is unique in terms of consistency in numbers of elephants roaming the park. If you choose afternoon departure, you will have great photographic opportunities of capturing the mesmerizing sunset with your camera.

You may spot other animals in the park including water buffalo, wild boar, spotted deer, sambur deer, jackal, sambar, black-naped hare, mongooses, bandicoots, foxes, the endemic toque macaque and gray langers. If you are lucky you might be able to see a leopard and other smaller cats, such as fishing cat and jungle cat. When the tour ends, you will be taken back to the departure point.

The Udawalawe Elephant Transist Home also known as Udawalawa Ath Athuru Sewana is a facility within Udawalawe National Park in Sri Lanka that was established in 1995 by the Sri Lanka Department of Wildlife Conservation. Its primary objective is to rehabilitate orphaned elephant calves for ultimate release back into the wild.

Elephant Transit Home during feeding hours and take a closer look at hundreds of wild elephant babies. The park sustains large numbers of elephants with its abundant water sources. Although you can’t get up close and personal with the elephants, seeing them at feeding time (from a viewing platform) is still a lot of fun.

What's not included

Hotel pickup and drop-off if outside of 5km of the park entrance gate.

Expenses of personal nature.

Food and drinks.

Gratuities.

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 4.7

7 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Udawalawe

Udawalawe is a small town in southern Sri Lanka known for its proximity to the Udawalawe National Park, a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, particularly those interested in elephants. The town serves as a gateway to one of the country's most important wildlife conservation areas, offering a unique blend of nature and adventure.

Top Attractions

Udawalawe National Park

Udawalawe National Park is one of Sri Lanka's most important wildlife sanctuaries, famous for its large population of Asian elephants. The park offers excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing, including safaris and guided tours.

Nature Half-day to full-day Approx. 5,000 LKR ($25 USD) for a safari

Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home

The Elephant Transit Home is a rescue and rehabilitation center for orphaned and injured elephants. Visitors can observe elephants being cared for and, if lucky, see them being released back into the wild.

Nature 1-2 hours Approx. 500 LKR ($2.50 USD) for entry

Udawalawe Reservoir

The Udawalawe Reservoir is a large artificial lake that provides water to the national park and surrounding areas. It is a popular spot for birdwatching and scenic views.

Nature 1-2 hours Free

Dambana Viharaya

Dambana Viharaya is an ancient Buddhist temple located near Udawalawe. The temple is known for its historical significance and beautiful architecture.

Historical 1-2 hours Free (donations welcome)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Rice and Curry

A traditional Sri Lankan meal consisting of rice served with a variety of curries, including vegetables, meat, and fish. Often accompanied by sambols and other side dishes.

Lunch/Dinner Vegetarian and non-vegetarian options available

Hoppers (Appa)

Bowl-shaped pancakes made from fermented rice flour and coconut milk, often served with an egg cooked in the center. Can be sweet or savory.

Breakfast/Dinner Vegetarian (check for egg)

Kottu Roti

A popular street food made from chopped roti (flatbread) stir-fried with vegetables, meat, and spices. Often served with a side of sambol.

Lunch/Dinner Vegetarian and non-vegetarian options available

Fish Ambul Thiyal

A sour fish curry made with a blend of spices and goraka (a sour fruit). Often served with rice or bread.

Lunch/Dinner Non-vegetarian (fish)

Popular Activities

Wildlife safaris Hiking Birdwatching Beach relaxation Scenic drives Nature walks Temple visits Local markets

Best Time to Visit

January to September (dry season)

The dry season is the best time to visit Udawalawe for wildlife viewing, especially elephants. The weather is generally sunny and dry, making it ideal for safaris and outdoor activities. This is the peak tourist season, so expect more visitors and higher prices.

25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F) 77°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Sinhala, Tamil
Widely spoken: English
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in rural areas

Currency

Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR)

Time Zone

GMT+5:30

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Udawalawe is generally a safe destination for travelers. However, petty crime and scams can occur, especially in tourist areas. Be cautious of your surroundings and take standard precautions to ensure a safe trip.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious of your belongings in crowded areas.
• Use reputable tour operators and agree on prices in advance.
• Avoid walking alone at night, especially in isolated areas.

Getting there

By air

Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport • 30 km (18.6 miles) southeast of Udawalawe
Bandaranaike International Airport • 160 km (99.4 miles) southwest of Udawalawe

By train

Udawalawe Station

By bus

Udawalawe Bus Stand

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the most common form of public transport. They are affordable but can be crowded and slow due to frequent stops.

Taxis

Available • Apps: PickMe (local ride-hailing app)

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Udawalawe Town Near Udawalawe National Park

Day trips

Tangalle

60 km (37.3 miles) • Full day

Tangalle is a beautiful coastal town known for its stunning beaches, clear waters, and relaxed atmosphere. It's a popular destination for those looking to combine wildlife viewing with beach relaxation.

Ella

100 km (62.1 miles) • Full day or overnight

Ella is a picturesque hill station known for its tea plantations, scenic views, and hiking trails. It's a popular destination for nature lovers and those seeking a cooler climate.

Kataragama

50 km (31 miles) • Half day

Kataragama is a sacred city known for its religious significance and the annual Esala Perahera festival. It's home to several important temples and shrines.