Known for reliable elephant sightings around its reservoir grasslands, plus the nearby Elephant Transit Home for orphaned calves.
Udawalawe National Park is built around a large reservoir, and its open grassland habitat makes it one of the most reliable places in Sri Lanka to see wild elephants, often in sizeable herds.
Just outside the park, the Elephant Transit Home cares for orphaned elephant calves before their eventual release back into the wild — a rare chance to see young elephants up close during feeding time.
One of the most consistent places in Sri Lanka to see wild elephants
The Elephant Transit Home, caring for orphaned calves
Open grassland habitat makes for easier wildlife viewing than denser jungle parks
An easy pairing with a south coast itinerary
Drive the open grasslands in search of elephant herds and birdlife.
Watch orphaned calves being bottle-fed at scheduled times.
Look for water birds around the Udawalawe reservoir.
Udawalawe Reservoir
Elephant Transit Home
National Park Grasslands
Getting there
About 3–3.5 hours by road from Colombo.
Best time to visit
Year-round, thanks to the open grassland habitat.
Good to know
Elephant Transit Home feeding times are fixed — check locally before planning your visit.
Private tours with a driver-guide that include Udawalawe — every route can be changed to suit you.
½–1Day
Wild elephant herds on open grassland, the Elephant Transit Home for orphaned calves, water buffalo and painted storks.
4Days
Jeep safaris in Udawalawe and Yala national parks, the Elephant Transit Home and the sacred town of Kataragama — leopards, elephants and birdlife.
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Can you see elephants in Udawalawe?
Yes — Udawalawe is one of the most reliable places in Sri Lanka to see wild elephants, often in large herds.
How do I get to Udawalawe from Colombo?
Udawalawe is about 3–3.5 hours by road from Colombo.
What is the best time to visit Udawalawe?
Udawalawe can be visited year-round, thanks to its open grassland habitat.
When is feeding time at the Elephant Transit Home?
Feeding times at the Elephant Transit Home are fixed — check locally before planning your visit.
Lanka