The stunning island of Sri Lanka offers an abundance of sights to behold, making it a true treat. This charming island nation offers a plethora of attractions, including beautiful sandy beaches, fascinating animals, and cultural and historical treasures.

Even if Sri Lanka’s array of experiences makes it one of the world’s top vacation spots, a trip there for a few days is worthwhile just for the country’s wildlife.

A significant portion of the wildlife in Sri Lanka is endemic to the country, while some, such as western reef egrets and Pacific Golden Plover, migrate to the warmer climates of the country when it starts getting colder in their own home countries. Like everyone else, these birds seem to love the warm temperatures in Sri Lanka that are prevalent all year round.

Embark on a magical journey with Pearlbay Travels! Experience vibrant wildlife, from local treasures to exotic wonders, and explore the most amazing destinations this beautiful island has to offer. Your Sri Lankan adventure is sure to be unforgettable.

There is no better way to begin this article than by providing a brief summary of Sri Lanka’s national parks, which are the sites to visit if you want to discover the country’s wildlife.

The island nation is home to 26 national parks, each giving a unique experience to visitors. Yala, Minneriya, Udawalawe, Wilpattu, Bundala, Kumana, and Gal Oya are the top national parks in Sri Lanka for thrilling jeep safaris. However, the Horton Plains is the only national park that can be explored on foot, providing a one-of-a-kind and immersive experience. In addition to these, Sri Lanka has two marine national parks, Hikkaduwa and Pigeon Island, where visitors can explore the country’s ocean and marine biodiversity.

Jeep safaris in Sri Lanka are often suggested between 6 a.m. and 9.00 a.m., and 3 p.m. to 6 p.m., when the animals are most active. The exceptions are Minneriya National Park, which is suggested only in the late afternoon, and Udawalawe National Park, which can be visited at any time of day to watch wildlife. If you opt to hike the Horton Plains, get at the entrance by 6 a.m., as the recommended time is between 6 and 9.00 a.m.

Udawalawe National Park

When the Udawalawe Reservoir was established over the Walawe River, the wildlife there was relocated to the Udawalawe National Park. This national park is situated between the provinces of Sabaragamuwa and Uva. The reserve encompasses around 120 square feet of land and serves as a natural habitat for a variety of wild species. It consists of grasslands, scrublands, and woodlands and is the ideal spot to witness beautiful Asiatic Elephants in their natural habitat. Aside from elephants, it is also home to the endangered Sri Lankan Sloth Bear.

Udawalawe is an important habitat for Sri Lankan elephants, who are difficult to spot in its broad areas. The Udawalawe reservoir attracts many elephants to the park, with an estimated 250 permanent residents. The Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home was built in 1995 to care for abandoned elephant calves within the park. Nine calves were released in the park when they were old enough to care for themselves, twice in 1998 and 2000, and again in 2002.

The national park is also a good bird-watching destination, including species such as the Sri Lanka Junglefowl, Sri Lankan spurfowl, and White-bellied Sea eagle.