The paradise land of the gentle giants; Udawalawe National Park

The Southern part of the island is decorated with nature’s wonders and Udawalawe National Park is one of those that heavily contributes to that beauty. The park essentially covers almost 30, 000 hectares of the land, offering this gigantic ecosystem a thriving elephant population, breathtaking views and diversified wildlife. The park was established in 1972 when it was required to provide a home for a concerned amount of displaced wildlife due to the construction of the Udawalawe reservoir. Ever since the park came into being, it has created one of a kind home to all these flora and fauna that thrive there today. 

The park is famously occupied by a very large population of elephants to a point that Udawalawe is almost synonymous with “elephants”. It is home to around 600 elephants, the gentle giants. Sighting these massive creatures is a guaranteed fact, roaming around the park with baby elephants hanging playfully around the giants and the site would melt your hearts without a doubt. The sightings are mostly pictures of these giants feeding on the lush vegetation, bathing in water holes, or just roaming in herds with their little ones. Whichever the occasion is, it is absolutely a heavenly picture to witness. Unlike anywhere else, these could even be very close encounters where elephants roam unbothered right next to you.

Udawalawe is more than just elephants

Despite Udawalawe National park being the paradise of the elephants, the park has many to offer in terms of its diverse population of other wildlife. The park is the home land of other mammals; leopards, sloth bears, water buffaloes, and sambar deer. The avian population residing there is also significant. With over 180 species of birds, it makes Udawalawe a birdwatcher’s paradise. These species range from the white-bellied sea eagle and crested serpent eagle to painted storks residing peacefully as they make it their home, unbothered. The aquatic diversity is mostly owing to residents like crocodiles and water monitors that is always a common site year - round. 

The best spot for the best sightings

Just as how much the wildlife thrives in this park, the scenic beauty is second to none of that. With the Udawalawe reservoir taking over most of the park’s area, it has become the central feature of the park, bringing in all those animals in search of water to gather around, making it a premium spot for sightings. The landscapes are always scenic as they could ever be, with grasslands stretching over to the horizon. Especially as the sun rises and sets, it provides a blissful view that could wash away all your troubles with golden hues foaming to bless your souls. 

The elephant Transit Home

As you enter the park, The Elephant Transit Home (ETH) stands right next to it, sheltering rescued calves for rehabilitation until they are in the perfect condition to go back to their natural habitats. The feeding times become the most interesting to watch at the ETH. 

Safarying around Udawalawe

Though famously recommended to safari around Udawalawe during the dry season, some prefer the off - season to avoid the crowds. Jeep safaris are the best you can pick to get the best glimpse of this park and its inhabitants. With comfortable clothing, sunscreen, a pair of binoculars, and your camera, you are good to go get a good look at this amazing wildlife sanctuary. 

Preserve Udawalawe for future

What’s always required to keep in mind while visiting is mindful traveling. As these natural wonders require preservation, your mindful traveling is respected. You are requested to come back without littering, respecting the rules of the park and most importantly not hindering the natural behaviors of the animals.