Palatupana to Udawalawe National Park

Palatupana to Udawalawe National Park

Udawalawe National Park is one of the most popular national parks in Sri Lanka. It is home to a variety of wildlife, including elephants, leopards, crocodiles, and water buffalo. The park is also a great place to see birds, with over 200 species recorded.

Palatupana is a small town located about 20 kilometers from Udawalawe National Park. It is a good place to stay if you are planning to visit the park, as it is close to the entrance and there are a number of hotels and guesthouses available.

Language

The official languages of Sri Lanka are Sinhala and Tamil. However, English is also widely spoken, especially in tourist areas. You should be able to get by in English in most places in Palatupana and Udawalawe National Park.

Currency

The currency of Sri Lanka is the Sri Lankan rupee (LKR). You can exchange currency at banks, exchange bureaus, and hotels. It is also possible to use credit cards in most places in Palatupana and Udawalawe National Park.

Distance

The distance from Palatupana to Udawalawe National Park is about 20 kilometers. The drive takes about 30 minutes.

How to Reach

There are a few different ways to get from Palatupana to Udawalawe National Park:

• By bus: There are regular buses that run from Palatupana to Udawalawe. The journey takes about 30 minutes and costs around LKR 100.
• By taxi: You can also take a taxi from Palatupana to Udawalawe. The journey takes about 30 minutes and costs around LKR 1,500.
• By tuk-tuk: Tuk-tuks are a good option for short distances. The journey from Palatupana to Udawalawe takes about 30 minutes and costs around LKR 500.

Expenses

The cost of visiting Udawalawe National Park varies depending on how you travel and what you do. However, you can expect to spend around LKR 5,000 per day, including accommodation, food, and activities.

Best time to go

The best time to visit Udawalawe National Park is during the dry season, from December to April. This is when the weather is at its best and the animals are most active. However, the park is open all year round.

What to Eat

There are a number of restaurants and cafes in Palatupana and Udawalawe National Park. You can find a variety of Sri Lankan and international cuisine. Some of the most popular dishes include:

• Rice and curry: This is the national dish of Sri Lanka and is made with rice served with a variety of curries.
• Hoppers: These are bowl-shaped pancakes made with rice flour and coconut milk.
• Kottu roti: This is a stir-fried dish made with roti, vegetables, and meat.

Where to Go

In addition to Udawalawe National Park, there are a number of other places to visit in the area, including:

• Elephant Transit Home: This is a rehabilitation center for orphaned elephants. You can watch the elephants being fed and learn about their care.
• Buduruwagala Temple: This is a Buddhist temple complex with a number of ancient statues.
• Lunugamwehera National Park: This is a national park that is home to a variety of wildlife, including elephants, leopards, and water buffalo.

FAQ

How much does it cost to enter Udawalawe National Park?

The entrance fee for Udawalawe National Park is LKR 3,000 for foreigners.

What are the opening hours of Udawalawe National Park?

Udawalawe National Park is open daily from 6am to 6pm.

Can I bring my own food into Udawalawe National Park?

Yes, you can bring your own food into Udawalawe National Park. However, it is important to be aware that there are no facilities for cooking or eating inside the park.

Are there any restrictions on what I can wear in Udawalawe National Park?

Yes, there are some restrictions on what you can wear in Udawalawe National Park. You should wear clothes that are comfortable and respectful of the local culture. For example, it is not appropriate to wear shorts or tank tops.