Kaudulla Park

Kaudulla National Park is one of Sri Lanka’s top wildlife destinations, particularly famous for its large elephant gatherings and scenic landscapes. Located in the dry zone, Kaudulla forms part of a vital elephant corridor network along with Minneriya and Hurulu Eco Park, allowing seasonal migration and movement of herds in search of food and water.

🌿 Overview of Kaudulla National Park

Location: North Central Province, near Habarana

Established: 2002

Size: ~6,900 hectares (~17,000 acres)

Nearest Town: Habarana (20–30 minutes away)

Main Attraction: Wild elephants, especially between September and November

🐘 Wildlife Highlights

Kaudulla is best known for its large elephant herds, often seen in impressive numbers grazing or bathing near the Kaudulla Reservoir.

Mammals: Asian elephants (hundreds during peak season) Sambar deer, spotted deer Sri Lankan leopard (rarely seen) Sloth bear (very elusive) Wild boar, jackals Grey langurs, toque macaques

Birds: Over 160 species, both resident and migratory Spot-billed pelicans Painted storks Brahminy kites, serpent eagles Sri Lankan junglefowl (national bird)

Reptiles & Amphibians: Mugger crocodiles (near water) Pythons, cobras, and various lizards Indian star tortoise (protected)

🏞️ Ecosystem & Landscape

A mix of open grasslands, scrub forest, and wetlands. The Kaudulla Tank (reservoir) is a major focal point for wildlife during dry months. It is also part of the Mahaweli River catchment area and important for migratory birds and aquatic life.

🧭 Visiting Kaudulla – What to Know

Best Time to Visit: September to November – peak elephant gathering season May to October – generally good for wildlife sightings During rainy season (Nov–Jan), the terrain may be muddy and harder to access

Safari Options: Jeep safaris from Habarana or Minneriya Safari tours are typically 3 hours; best times are early morning or late afternoon Guides help spot and identify wildlife, and know where elephant herds have moved

Accessibility: Easily reachable from Habarana, Sigiriya, or Polonnaruwa 4WD vehicles recommended (most tour operators provide this)

🐘 Kaudulla vs. Minneriya vs. Hurulu (Elephant Safaris)

Feature Kaudulla Minneriya Hurulu Eco Park Best months Sep–Nov Jul–Oct Jun–Sep Elephant numbers High Very high (The Gathering) Moderate to high Landscape Reservoir & open fields Grasslands & scrub Dense forest Crowds Moderate High Least crowded Base town Habarana Habarana Habarana

Many safari operators adjust the destination daily based on elephant movement, so they might choose Kaudulla over Minneriya depending on where herds are located that day.

✅ Tips for Visiting

Bring binoculars for birdwatching Carry water and sunscreen – it gets very hot and dry Avoid feeding or approaching wildlife Respect park regulations and stay with your guide during the safari