Uda Walawe National Park
Within easy reach is Uda Walawe National Park – about one hours’ journey from Buckingham Place. This is where Elephants roam, bathe and rear their young with comparative freedom. Witnessing this for the first time is both breathtaking and a memorable highlight for anybody who enjoys seeing wildlife in its natural habitat. Uda Walawe, a National Park of some 310 sq km is home to a great many species of mammal and reptile. A large reservoir and the Walawe River provide the sustenance for vegetation and the parks wild inhabitants. Large herds of elephant invariably seen May – September (dry season) along with ever plentiful deer, ‘water’ along the banks of the river when the reservoir level is depleted. Crocodiles, monitor lizards, snakes – some dangerous; varied and incredibly coloured birdlife, all co-exist with buffalo, boar, wild cats, and porcupine. While many of these species are seen throughout Sri Lanka, Uda Walawe is of particular interest as one can often view wildlife close up with overnight stays sometimes possible at one of its simple campsites. Wildlife Department Rangers will be helpful, answering your questions and ensuring safety, although facilities are fairly basic. Thankfully, Uda Walawe is not over commercialised so provided that your visit is well scheduled it should be possible to have a real ‘back to nature’ experience in an unspoilt and beautifully scenic National Park.
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