Kaudulla National Park is a wildlife sanctuary located in the North Central Province of Sri Lanka, near the historic city of Polonnaruwa. Established in 2002, the park covers an area of over 6,900 hectares and forms part of the important Elephant Corridor, which connects Minneriya and Wasgamuwa National Parks, allowing free movement of elephants between protected areas.
Centered around the ancient Kaudulla Tank, a reservoir built during the reign of King Mahasen (3rd century AD), the park provides a vital water source for a wide range of flora and fauna, especially during the dry season. The tank attracts hundreds of Asian elephants, particularly from August to October, making Kaudulla one of the best places in Sri Lanka to witness large elephant gatherings in the wild.
In addition to elephants, the park is home to a diverse array of wildlife including sambar deer, axis deer, wild boar, Sri Lankan sloth bears, and even the elusive Sri Lankan leopard. Several species of monkeys, such as purple-faced langurs and toque macaques, also inhabit the park's dense dry evergreen forests.
Kaudulla is equally renowned for its rich birdlife, attracting birdwatchers from around the world. Over 160 bird species have been recorded here, including painted storks, pelicans, eagles, kites, kingfishers, and hornbills. The park’s mix of wetlands, grasslands, and forested areas creates ideal habitats for both migratory and resident birds.
Jeep safaris are the primary way to explore Kaudulla National Park, offering a chance to observe wildlife up close in a natural setting with fewer crowds than some neighboring parks. The park's open grasslands, particularly near the tank, are ideal for wildlife viewing and photography.
With its combination of history, natural beauty, and thriving biodiversity, Kaudulla National Park offers a memorable and authentic Sri Lankan wildlife experience.
