Spanning over 7,000 hectares, Kaudulla National Park reveals its charm around a series of artificial lakes. Located 22 km from the town of Habarama in Sri Lanka's north-central region near Sigiriya, the park's main draw is its expansive reservoir, surrounded by pasturelands and scrub forest. At certain times of day, you'll witness a remarkable variety of animals gathering at the lake's edge—among them, herds of wild elephants that populate the area during October and November. It's the perfect opportunity to observe the region's extraordinary wildlife. If you're considering planning a safari, this reserve is the ideal destination for an unforgettable adventure.

Features

The entire landscape showcases an environment rich in diverse fauna and flora. A lush forest extends across more than 6,000 hectares. Each year, during heavy rains, two-thirds of the park becomes completely submerged when the basins overflow. Among these water bodies are the Relapanawa, Olumadu wewa, and Puliyan Kalla wewa reservoirs, the Minneriya-Kanthale Yoda Ela canal, Aluth Oya, and Hatharas Kotuwa Oya.

History

Kaudulla was once part of the sixteen irrigation reservoirs built by King Mahasen. The site underwent extensive restoration beginning in 1959, after being abandoned for several centuries.

Today

Now a wildlife sanctuary in its own right, Kaudulla National Park is home to no fewer than twenty species of mammals, reptiles, fish, and roughly a hundred bird varieties coexisting across this vast reserve. Beyond the ever-present pachyderms, you may be fortunate enough to spot deer, wild boar, bears, crocodiles, and pelicans.

Visiting Kaudulla National Park

Exploring Kaudulla National Park is an enriching experience if you wish to learn more about the site. Nature enthusiasts will find themselves in heaven discovering this peaceful haven.

Among the mammals you might encounter are sambar deer, Sri Lankan axis deer, chevrotain, and wild boar. Sloth bears and leopards are rare but occasionally glimpsed slipping stealthily through the forest canopy. A boat ride on the lake offers another way to contemplate the landscape. From time to time, you'll be startled by the splash of water created by turtles surfacing.

A true reptile sanctuary, Kaudulla National Park harbors numerous freshwater turtles, Indian roof turtles, and Indian black turtles. The scenery becomes increasingly magnificent as multitudes of birds with stunning plumage soar overhead, much to the delight of birdwatchers. Among them are great water birds such as the Asian spoonbill, grey-headed fish eagle, black-headed ibis, painted stork, and openbill stork.

In the evening, appreciate the lake's splendor amid a flock of pelicans. Seize these magical moments to capture the scenery in photographs.

Nearby Parks

You can extend your excursion by combining your safari with visits to Minneriya and Hurulu. But first, here's an overview of what these sites offer.

Minneriya National Park

This is a favorite gathering place for countless animals during the dry season. From May to September, more than a hundred elephants congregate at the water sources to drink. Like Kaudulla, you'll find other animal species here—deer, big cats, amphibians, reptiles, fish, and birds found nowhere else. For better viewing, prioritize visits early in the morning or late afternoon. This faunal richness earned it UNESCO World Heritage status in 1997.

Hurulu Eco Park

The reserve hosts, among other animals, Asian elephants, Sri Lankan turtles, and thousands of birds. It also marks the final stopover during elephant migration, from December to January. As always, don't leave your camera behind. Additionally, you can reach Hurulu Eco Park via another route, following an itinerary from the city of Kandy.

Practical Information

The reserve welcomes visitors daily from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Entry will cost roughly 30 euros, including jeep and admission. Due to flooding caused by the numerous water bodies, always verify conditions before planning your trip.

Access to the park is by 4x4 vehicle only, accompanied by an official guide. Journey duration depends on your accommodation's location.