Visit Udawalawe , the “African Reserve of Sri Lanka” !
Udawalawe National Park, about 170 km Southeast of Colombo, boasts of a good number of elephants. The park covers more than 31,000 hectares of grassland and savannah, the reason why the park is also called the “African Reserve of Sri Lanka”.
Very large herds of elephants in a tranquil setting (the park is less crowded than the more famous ones) offer a remarkable experience, especially if a good guide takes you around.
A good way to experience life in the park is to stay overnight in one of the bungalows and let yourself overwhelmed by the spectacular views you can enjoy from the comfort of your deck. The bungalows are not on the luxury-oriented side but offer an authentic jungle experience.
This is definitely a great place to go!
What can you expect to spot?
Easily: Elephants, Water Buffalo, Toque Monkey, Hanuman Langur, Spotted Deer, crocodiles, water monitor lizards, Sambar Ceylon Junglefowl, Ceylon Spurfowl, Ceylon Grey Hornbill, Ceylon Woodshrike and Ceylon Swallow and Sirkeer.
If you use your senses: Wild Pig, Blue-faced Malkoha, Ruddy Mongoose (that sometimes are busy searching for insects in middle of the tracks) and a variety of snakes.
If you are lucky: Black-naped Hare and Leopard.