Pannipitiya to Udawalawe National Park

Pannipitiya to Udawalawe National Park

Udawalawe National Park is a national park located in the Uva Province of Sri Lanka. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including elephants, leopards, buffaloes, and crocodiles. It is also a popular destination for birdwatching.

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Language

The official languages of Sri Lanka are Sinhala and Tamil. However, English is widely spoken in tourist areas.

Currency

The official currency of Sri Lanka is the Sri Lankan rupee (LKR). US dollars and British pounds are also accepted in tourist areas.

Distance

The distance from Pannipitiya to Udawalawe National Park is approximately 160 kilometers (100 miles).

How to Reach

There are several ways to reach Udawalawe National Park from Pannipitiya.

• By car: The drive from Pannipitiya to Udawalawe National Park takes approximately 3 hours.
• By train: There is a train from Colombo Fort to Badulla that stops at Udawalawe. The journey takes approximately 4 hours.
• By bus: There are several buses that run from Colombo to Udawalawe. The journey takes approximately 5 hours.

Expenses

The cost of visiting Udawalawe National Park is as follows:

• Entrance fee: US$ 25 per person
• Jeep safari: US$ 50 per jeep (up to 6 people)
• Elephant ride: US$ 20 per person
• Accommodation: There are a variety of accommodation options available near Udawalawe National Park, ranging from budget guesthouses to luxury hotels.
• Food and drinks: There are several restaurants and cafes located near Udawalawe National Park.

Best time to go

The best time to visit Udawalawe National Park is during the dry season, which runs from December to April. During this time, the weather is dry and sunny, and the animals are more active.

What to Eat

Sri Lankan cuisine is a blend of Sinhalese, Tamil, and Dutch influences. Some of the most popular dishes include:

• Rice and curry: This is the national dish of Sri Lanka, and it consists of rice served with a variety of curries.
• Hoppers: These are bowl-shaped pancakes made from rice flour and coconut milk.
• Kottu roti: This is a shredded flatbread dish made with roti, vegetables, and meat.
• String hoppers: These are thin, noodle-like strands of rice flour that are steamed and served with curry.
• Watalappam: This is a coconut custard dessert that is popular in Sri Lanka.

Where to Go

In addition to Udawalawe National Park, there are several other places worth visiting in the area.

• Elephant Transit Home: This is a government-run sanctuary for orphaned elephants.
• Ravana Falls: These are a series of waterfalls located near Ella.
• Nine Arch Bridge: This is a railway bridge located near Ella that is considered to be one of the most beautiful bridges in the world.
• Little Adam's Peak: This is a small mountain located near Ella that offers stunning views of the surrounding area.
• Diyaluma Falls: These are some of the highest waterfalls in Sri Lanka.

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions about Udawalawe National Park.

• Is it safe to visit Udawalawe National Park? Yes, Udawalawe National Park is safe to visit. However, it is important to follow the park rules and regulations.
• What are the opening hours of Udawalawe National Park? The park is open from 6:00am to 6:00pm daily.
• Can I bring my own food and drinks into the park? Yes, you are allowed to bring your own food and drinks into the park. However, it is important to dispose of your trash properly.
• Are there any ATMs in the park? No, there are no ATMs in the park. It is important to bring enough cash with you.
• Is there a dress code for the park? No, there is no dress code for the park. However, it is important to wear comfortable clothing and shoes.