Kaudulla National Park - Discovering Sri Lanka

Travelling to Kaudulla National Park

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Kaudulla National Park, a pretty good destination in Sri Lanka (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Kaudulla National Park and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Kaudulla National Park, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Sri Lanka, here's everything to know about Kaudulla National Park for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Kaudulla National Park

Kaudulla National Park is a protected wildlife park located in the North Central Province of Sri Lanka, about 190 km away from Colombo. It was established in 2002 and covers an area of 6,900 hectares. Kaudulla National Park is most known for its large population of Asian elephants, which can be seen during the dry season between June and September. The park also has diverse flora and fauna, including different species of birds, reptiles, and mammals, such as sambar deer, spotted deer, and wild boar. It offers safari rides for visitors, and the best time to visit is in the early morning or evening to avoid the heat.

What to visit in Kaudulla National Park

Kaudulla National Park is a beautiful wildlife reserve located in Sri Lanka. Here are some of the popular tourist attractions in the park along with brief information about each: 1. Kaudulla Tank - The Kaudulla Tank is a man-made reservoir that is the center of attraction of the National Park. This tank is a source of water to many animals including elephants, deer and monkeys. It is also an ideal location to sight various bird species that visit the place.
2. Elephant Safari - Kaudulla National Park is famous for its elephant safari tours. The park has a large population of Asian elephants and riding on a jeep safari is an ideal way to explore the park and spot herds of elephants in the wild.
3. Bird Watching - Kaudulla National Park is home to around 250 bird species. Birdwatching tours are conducted by the park authorities where bird enthusiasts can see various species like Open-billed Stork, Spoonbills, Pelicans, and Egrets.
4. Trekking - The park offers a scenic hiking trail that takes you through lush green forests, grasslands, and wetlands. Trekking enthusiasts can observe various species of animals, birds, and plants along the way.
5. Minneriya-Giritale Elephant Corridor - Located close to the park, this is one of the most important elephant corridors in Sri Lanka connecting Minneriya National Park and Giritale Sanctuary. Visitors can see a large number of elephants pass through this corridor during their migratory season.
6. The Giant's Tank - This is another large reservoir located near the park, which was built in the 9th century by the ancient kings. It is an important spot where migratory birds come to nest.
Overall, Kaudulla National Park is an excellent destination for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. It has a wide range of attractions that showcase the diverse flora and fauna of the region.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Sri Lanka, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.

When to go on holiday to Kaudulla National Park

The best time to visit Kaudulla National Park in Sri Lanka is during the dry season, which is from June to September when the water levels are low. During this time, the chances of spotting wildlife at Kaudulla National Park are higher as the animals tend to come out to the open for water. However, it is important to note that the park may be crowded during this peak season. If you prefer a quieter and less crowded experience, you may consider visiting during the shoulder season which occurs from February to May or from October to December when the weather is still favorable for exploring the park.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Kaudulla National Park

To reach Kaudulla National Park in Sri Lanka, you can follow these steps: 1. By car: Drive to Habarana, which is approximately 42 km to the south of Anuradhapura. From Habarana, you can take the Kaudulla Road, which is approximately 6 km away from the town, to reach the national park.
2. By bus: You can take a bus from the Anuradhapura bus station to Habarana and then take a tuk-tuk or taxi to Kaudulla National Park.
3. By train: Take a train from Colombo to Habarana, which is the nearest city to the national park, and then take a tuk-tuk or taxi to Kaudulla National Park.
4. By private tour: If you prefer a more guided and hassle-free trip, you can also book a private tour that includes transportation and a guide to take you to Kaudulla National Park.
It is important to note that the park is located about 200 km from Colombo, the capital city of Sri Lanka. The journey can take up to 4 hours by car or bus.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Kaudulla National Park, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Kaudulla National Park

Kaudulla National Park is a wildlife sanctuary in Sri Lanka, therefore there are no typical foods for the park. However, Sri Lanka has a rich culinary heritage and some of the popular Sri Lankan dishes that you may find in nearby towns and cities include: 1. Rice and curry - a staple dish in Sri Lanka. Short-grain rice served with a variety of curries made with vegetables, meats, and spicy sauces.
2. Hoppers - a type of pancake made with rice flour and coconut milk. They are crispy on the edges and soft and fluffy in the center.
3. Kottu - a popular street food in Sri Lanka made with chopped roti bread, vegetables, and/or meat. It's cooked on a hot griddle with a variety of spices.
4. Fish Ambulthiyal - A fish curry unique to Sri Lanka. The fish is marinated in a mixture of spices and vinegar and then slow-cooked in a clay pot until the gravy thickens.
5. Pol Sambol - a coconut relish made with freshly grated coconut, red onions, chili flakes, and lime juice. It's typically served as a condiment with rice and curry.
6. Watalappam - a traditional Sri Lankan dessert made with jaggery, coconut milk, and spices. It has a custard-like texture and is often served at special occasions such as weddings and festivals.
These are just a few examples of the delicious Sri Lankan cuisine that you can try during your visit to the country.
You can find general info about typical foods in Sri Lanka here.

Is Kaudulla National Park an expensive destination for tourists?

Kaudulla National Park in Sri Lanka is a popular destination for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers. The cost of visiting the park can vary depending on a few factors, such as the type of tour you choose, the season you visit, and the number of people you are traveling with.
Generally speaking, the cost to visit Kaudulla National Park can range from $15-$50 per person for entrance fees and safari tours, with prices being higher during peak season. However, some tours may offer luxury options that can be more expensive.
It's important to do some research and compare prices before booking any tours or accommodations in Kaudulla National Park to ensure that you are getting the best value for your money.

Where to find accomodation in Kaudulla National Park

The best areas to find accommodation to visit Kaudulla National Park are Habarana and Sigiriya. These towns are located close to the park and offer a variety of accommodation options such as guesthouses, hotels and resorts. Additionally, both towns are well connected to the park by public transport and it's easy to arrange a safari tour from there. Sigiriya is a popular tourist destination and offers a variety of accommodation options at different price ranges. Habarana, on the other hand, is a quieter town and offers a more authentic Sri Lankan experience.
You can check hotel prices at Kaudulla National Park here:
Booking.com

Is Kaudulla National Park a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Kaudulla National Park in Sri Lanka is generally considered safe for tourists. However, it is always important to follow the rules and guidelines set by the park authorities and be cautious of any potential risks that may occur in a natural environment such as staying away from wild animals and not littering. It is also advisable to visit the park with a certified tour guide who can help ensure your safety and provide valuable information about the animals and the park.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Sri Lanka here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Kaudulla National Park.

What type of travelers will enjoy Kaudulla National Park the most?

Kaudulla National Park in Sri Lanka is a great destination for a wide variety of travelers. It is best suited for those who are interested in wildlife and nature, including families, couples, and even solo travelers. Families will enjoy the park's abundant wildlife and the opportunity to learn about Sri Lanka's rich biodiversity. Children will love seeing the elephants, deer, monkeys, and other animals up close. Couples who enjoy exploring nature together will appreciate the park's lush vegetation and stunning landscapes. The park is also an ideal location for photographers looking to capture Sri Lanka's natural beauty.
Young people looking for adventure and fun may be interested in the park's jeep safaris and guided tours. The park also provides a unique opportunity to learn about Sri Lanka's culture and history.
Overall, Kaudulla National Park can accommodate a wide range of travelers, all of whom can enjoy the park's spectacular beauty and rich wildlife.

How to get around Kaudulla National Park

The best way to explore Kaudulla National Park in Sri Lanka is by jeep safari. You can hire a licensed jeep with a driver/guide to go around the park and observe the wildlife. Walking and cycling are not allowed inside the park due to safety reasons.

What to see around Kaudulla National Park

There are several nice places you can visit in a day trip from Kaudulla National Park in Sri Lanka. Some of them are: 1. Sigiriya Rock Fortress: This ancient fortress is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the most popular tourist attraction in Sri Lanka. It is located around 43 km from Kaudulla National Park.
2. Dambulla Cave Temple: This is another UNESCO World Heritage Site located around 22 km from Kaudulla National Park. It is a complex of cave temples that were built in the 1st century BCE and features numerous Buddha statues and murals.
3. Minneriya National Park: This national park is located around 5 km from Kaudulla National Park and is home to a large population of elephants, as well as other wildlife such as leopards, sloth bears, and deer.
4. Polonnaruwa Ancient City: This ancient city was the second capital of Sri Lanka and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is situated around 35 km from Kaudulla National Park and features numerous ancient ruins and temples.
5. Habarana Lake: This scenic lake is located around 7 km from Kaudulla National Park and is a popular spot for boat rides, fishing, and bird watching.
6. Ritigala Forest Monastery: This ancient monastery is located around 40 km from Kaudulla National Park and is situated within a dense forest. It dates back to the 1st century BCE and features well-preserved ruins of ancient buildings and monastic cells.
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