Kaudulla

Kaudulla National Park, in the Polonnaruwa district, is centred on an ancient reservoir and forms part of the elephant corridor linking Minneriya, Wasgamuwa and Somawathiya. Late in the dry season, when Minneriya's grass runs low, many of the elephants move to Kaudulla, and it becomes one of the best places in the country to see large herds.

The park

Kaudulla was declared a national park in 2002 and covers about 6,900 hectares. The Kaudulla tank, traditionally credited to King Mahasena in the 3rd century AD and restored in the mid 20th century, takes up much of the park, surrounded by grassland and scrub forest. As the water level falls, fresh grass grows on the exposed tank bed and draws the elephants.

Wildlife

Elephants are the main attraction, often in groups of dozens and sometimes far more. Sambar and spotted deer, wild boar and mouse deer are common, while leopards and sloth bears are present but rarely seen. Around 160 bird species have been recorded, including spot-billed pelicans, lesser adjutants, painted and openbill storks, spoonbills and grey-headed fish eagles. See Kaudulla National Park safari.

When to go

The best months are usually from about August to December, as elephants move from Minneriya. Rain falls mainly from about October to December. Ask jeep drivers in Habarana where the herds are; they will choose between Kaudulla, Minneriya and Hurulu on the day.

Getting there

The entrance is off the Habarana to Trincomalee road, about 20 minutes from Habarana and about an hour from Sigiriya. Colombo is around five hours away.

Tips

Afternoon safaris are usual, as elephants come to the tank later in the day. Bring binoculars, a hat and water. Elephants also cross the main road near the park; never stop to feed them.

Kaudulla or Minneriya?

Both parks are good for elephants, and the herds move between them with the grass and water. In the early and middle part of the dry season Minneriya is often better; later in the year Kaudulla usually takes over. Hurulu Eco Park, nearby, is an alternative when the others are quiet or busy. Trust the local drivers, who track the herds daily.

Hotels in Kaudulla

For accommodation, see hotels in Kaudulla, with options for different budgets.

Nearby

The ruins of Polonnaruwa, the medieval capital, are about 45 minutes away, and Sigiriya and the Dambulla cave temple are within an hour or so. Trincomalee and the east coast beaches are about two hours north-east, so Kaudulla makes a good stop on the way to the coast.

Where to stay

Most visitors stay in Habarana or Sigiriya. See things to do in Kaudulla.