UDAWALAWE NATIONAL PARK
UDAWALAWE NATIONAL PARK
2 night wildlife experience from £ 399pp
One of the world ’ s best places to see wild elephants
Udawalawe National Park sits in the southern shadows of Sri Lanka ’ s Central Highlands and is largely comprised of grasslands and bush forest . The park is regarded as the prime location for observing Asian elephants , with over 500 roaming the park . They often roam in herds of up to 100 , so it is not unusual to see adults and their young feeding or bathing and playing in the water - it ’ s a truly remarkable and memorable experience . In addition the park is home to a great number of other species , including spotted deer , sambur , water buffalo , wild boar , macaque , monitor lizards and jackal . While leopards and other wild cats reside in Udawalawe , it is rare to spot them . Endemic birds include the Sri Lankan junglefowl , green pigeon , grey hornbill , woodshrike and swallow . You may also see a huge variety of beautiful butterflies . Supported by the Born Free Foundation , the nearby ‘ Elephant Transit Home ’ helps care for injured elephants from all over Sri Lanka . After rehabilitation , the elephants are released back into the wild , many into Udawalawe National Park . A highlight is to watch the orphans at feeding time from the viewing platform ( which take place at set times each day ).
Getting there : The driving time to Udawalawe from Yala National Park , Tangalle or Hambantota is 2 hours , while it is 4½ hours drive from Nuwara Eliya .
Best time to go : Udawalawe can be visited all year , however migrant birds can only be seen November- March .
Price : Includes 2 nights accommodation , meals , safaris and tours shown opposite . For complete flexibility the price does not include transfers . Supplements are available to / from a variety of locations within Sri Lanka .
KALU ’ S HIDEAWAY
3H Udawalawe National Park
Nestled amidst five acres of beautifully manicured gardens and neighbouring the breathtaking Udawalawe Reservoir , Kalu ’ s Hideaway is just 15 minutes drive from the entrance to Udawalawe National Park . Your included safari jeep excursion gives you the chance to see some of the abundant wildlife , including monkey , buffalo and leopard , as well as an incredible variety of birds and butterflies . Rooms at this eco-friendly property are simple yet comfortably furnished while the swimming pool and outdoor deck are the perfect spots to refresh and relax after wildlife watching . The dining room serves Sri Lankan curries and a selection of international cuisine .
Deluxe room
Features : 14 rooms • restaurant • bar • swimming pool • jacuzzi • spa • games room • children ’ s play area • bicycle hire • fishing • free WiFi
Accommodation : In deluxe rooms in the main building with shower , mini bar and safe .
Meals : Half board .
Activities : Your wildlife experience includes a visit to the nearby Elephant Transit Home , which helps to care for injured elephants ( feeding times are at 9am and noon ), and an afternoon game drive by jeep . visit your travel agent or call 08444 937 444 • www . premierholidays . co . uk SRI LANKA 199