Wild elephant grazing across open savanna in Udawalawe

Wildlife & Safari

Udawalawe & Elephant Grasslands

Sri Lanka’s premier elephant sanctuary, offering guaranteed sightings of wild elephant herds roaming open savannas reminiscent of East Africa.

Ideal stay: 1–2 nights
Category: Wildlife & Safari
Best season: Excellent wildlife sightings year-round; dry months (May to September) are especially rewarding.

Why it belongs

Guaranteed elephants · Transit home · Open savanna

Created to provide a sanctuary for wild animals displaced by the construction of the Udawalawe Reservoir, this 30,821-hectare national park is the best place in Asia to see wild elephants year-round. It is also home to the famous Elephant Transit Home, where orphaned baby elephants are rehabilitated and released back into the wild.

Plan a journey with Udawalawe

Destination Highlights

01Enjoy guaranteed close encounters with hundreds of wild elephants across open grasslands
02Watch orphaned baby elephants being bottle-fed at the Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home
03Spot water buffaloes, jackals, sambar deer, crocodiles, and birds of prey
04Admire dramatic mountain backdrops across the vast Udawalawe Reservoir

Especially Good For

Elephant lovers & families
Guaranteed wildlife sightings
Open savanna photography
Ethical animal care

Key Sights & Experiences

What to explore in Udawalawe

From sacred cultural sanctuaries and colonial landmarks to panoramic mountain trails and secluded bays, here are the defining highlights of Udawalawe.

Wildlife safari3–4 hours