South East
Yala National Park
Sri Lanka's best-known safari park, with leopards, elephants, sloth bears and coastal lagoons.
Southern Plains
Udawalawe National Park
Udawalawe National Park surrounds a large reservoir on the edge of the southern plains. Its open grassland and scrub make wild elephants easy to watch, and it is one of the most dependable parks on the island for seeing them.
Udawalawe National Park at a glance
- Where
- Southern Plains, Sri Lanka
- Best for
- Wildlife
- Time needed
- A half-day safari is usually enough, so Udawalawe is often a stop between Ella and the south coast.
- Best time
- The park is open for much of the year and elephants are present year-round.
- Nearby
- Yala National Park, Ella, Mirissa, Sinharaja Forest Reserve
- Visit with us
- Private tour with your own vehicle and driver
Why visit Udawalawe National Park?
Herds of elephants graze in the open, often close to the tracks, and the landscape is less dense than Yala, so viewing is relaxed.
The park also has water buffalo, crocodiles, birds of prey and many waterbirds, and it sits conveniently between the hill country and the south coast.
Top attractions and things to do
Elephant herds
Family groups and lone bulls in open terrain throughout the year.
The reservoir
Waterside areas attract birds, crocodiles and grazing animals.
Elephant Transit Home
A rehabilitation centre for orphaned calves, which are released into the wild when ready; visitors can watch feeding at set times.
About Udawalawe
Udawalawe National Park was created around a large reservoir on the boundary of the wet and dry zones, between the hill country and the south coast. Its open grasslands and scrub make wildlife easy to see, and its elephants are the main reason to visit.
Herds of elephants are found here throughout the year, along with water buffalo, spotted deer, crocodiles, jackals and a wide range of birds, including raptors and waterbirds around the reservoir.
Elephant Transit Home
Next to the park, the Elephant Transit Home cares for orphaned baby elephants and returns them to the wild when they are ready. Visitors can watch feeding from a viewing area at set times without touching the animals.
It is a more responsible alternative to places where elephants are kept for rides or shows. Check current feeding times before you go.
Planning a safari
Jeep safaris run in the morning and afternoon, usually for around three to four hours. Because the park is open country, a half-day is often enough to see elephants well.
Udawalawe is a good option with young children, or if you'd like a calmer safari than Yala. It works well on the travel day between Ella and the south coast.
Where to stay
Simple guesthouses and safari lodges are clustered near the park entrance, with a few more comfortable hotels around the reservoir. Many travellers don't stay overnight at all and visit as a stop between the hills and the beaches.
Planning your visit
- Suggested time
- A half-day safari is usually enough, so Udawalawe is often a stop between Ella and the south coast. (Guidance only.)
- Best time to visit
- The park is open for much of the year and elephants are present year-round. Conditions vary with rainfall; check current park information before you travel.
- Getting there
- Udawalawe lies on the main road between the hill country and the south coast, so it fits naturally between Ella and Mirissa or Yala.
Check current details before travelling: prices, opening hours, access and seasonal conditions change.
Visitor tips
- Afternoon drives can be very hot; bring water, a hat and sunscreen.
- Never feed elephants, including at roadside spots outside the park fence.
- Choose a jeep driver who respects animals' space, especially around calves.
Experiences around Udawalawe National Park
Plan with our guides
Udawalawe National Park: frequently asked questions
Is Udawalawe good for seeing elephants?
Yes. It is one of the most reliable parks in Sri Lanka for elephants, though wildlife is never guaranteed.
Are there leopards in Udawalawe?
Leopards live in the park but are rarely seen. Yala or Wilpattu are better choices if leopards are a priority.
How long is a safari in Udawalawe?
Most visitors choose a half-day drive in the morning or afternoon.
When is the best time to visit Udawalawe National Park?
The park is open for much of the year and elephants are present year-round. Conditions vary with rainfall; check current park information before you travel.
How do I get to Udawalawe National Park?
Udawalawe lies on the main road between the hill country and the south coast, so it fits naturally between Ella and Mirissa or Yala.
Can you include Udawalawe National Park in a private tour?
Yes. We can add Udawalawe National Park to a private route planned around your dates, and drive you there in our own vehicle. Tell us what else you'd like to see and we'll suggest how it fits.
Nearby destinations
Hill Country
Ella
A small hill-country town of tea slopes, short hikes and the famous Nine Arch Bridge.
South Coast
Mirissa
A palm-fringed bay on the south coast, known for seasonal whale watching and easy beach days.
South West
Sinharaja Forest Reserve
A UNESCO-listed lowland rainforest, rich in endemic birds and plants.
Plan a trip that includes Udawalawe National Park
Tell us when you'd like to travel and what you love, and we'll suggest a route that fits. There's no obligation.