Kaudulla National Park

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One of the best national parks to spot elephants

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This was an amazing experience, we got very lucky with the weather and in the middle of a monsoon got a few hours of sunshine. You get so close to the elephants it's unbelievable and they don't seem bothered at all, they continue grazing at their own pace even with the little ones around mum. Most of my photos are on my camera so excuse the selfie! The guides are really knowledgeable about the wildlife and stop, wait until you have your photo and then drive on again. Be careful when you go up the watch tower as there are some snakes chilling up there but their only small and didn't even move when we went up

connie1995, United Kingdom

During our stay in Dambulla we were looking for a Safari Tour and found Kalum's contact details on Tripadvisor. He responded within a few minutes and was able to organize a tour for us to Kandulla National Park for the next day. His tour guide Jeewan picked us up at the hotel on the next day with his jeep which was already a great experience until we reached the National Park. The tour in there was even more impressive as we saw plenty of different animals and more than 200 elephants. In addition, Jeewan was very knowledgable about all the differnt animals and a great and super supportive guide during the whole day. For that reason, we decided to ask him as well for a sunrise hiking tour to Pidurangala Rock on the next day. After a 4am pick-up we had a great hike to the top of the mountain with an amazing sunrise view. Thank you again Jeewan for making these two days so special and an unforgettable memory!

Kevin R

We had the most wonderful time with Kalum on our safari today! Not only is he a true professional, he is also a lovely person - funny and personable. I simply cannot speak highly enough of our full experience today. We were very well taken care of, and saw hundreds of beautiful elephants plus many different species of birds, water buffalo, monkeys and more. What more could we ask for? You will not go wrong booking with Kalum Jeep Safari!

mjclark77, Canada

Where should I start... From the minute one Kalum goes out of his way for you, for your tastes, your desire to discover and does everything possible to fulfill your dreams. Mine, to see a wild Elephant. At the beginning of the Safari there were a lot of cars around. We started the Safari with all the rest but at some point Kalum changed the direction. He said we were going to a special place. Very bad road and no other cars. The rest of the Jeeps were driving the easy road. Finally! An ELEPHANT!! And not only one, a group of 36. There were female elephants, male elephants and babies. The whole group for us alone. NO OTHER JEEP NEAR !!! We were able to enjoy them 100% all the time we wanted. When we decided to continue we met the rest of the Jeeps, those who had followed the easy route. And we saw more elephants again, but this time from farther away and with many more people. Kalum decided to follow an alternative route, more complicated and thanks to that he made me a very special gift. I could never thank you enough. QUE MONOOO!!

margroc

Very responsive on WhatsApp, picked up from our hotel in Sigiriya by our driver/guide Jeewan who was very friendly and spoke good English. He took time on the safari to point out beautiful birds and lizards before taking us to the water where there were well over 100 elephants! Fantastic experience having time to sit and watch them feed and drink. Kept a respectful distance from the elephants unlike some other jeeps in the park, would recommend this company!

AKINGDOML

We booked Mathisha for 3 days, starting with a Safari in Kaudulla and following days included a trip to Polunaruva and the transfer to Kandy. The Safari was an amazing experience: he recommended the best time to visit the Park and we saw 164 Elefants (counted by our daughter) some of them really close up! We totally recommend to anyone booking the safari tour with Mathisha! His service was great: he stopped to buy typical Sri Lanka treats for us such as Ginger cookies or corn on the hub, he pointed out sight seeing spots on the way and had great knowledge of wildlife. One day, he provided free WiFi! Travelling longer distances such as from Sigiriya to Pollunaruva with a Jeep during rain season is for sure great fun, if you however wish more comfort or space for luggage, than you might choose a different vehicle (seat belts provided for 3 seats).

SmokeinEurope, Netherlands

We had a great day on this tour despite the terrible weather ( it is rainy season so was expected) The pick up time was flexible after several communications and luckily it was, because our time in Sigiriya was affected by some serious rain. However we got to climb the amazing rock which incredible. Our driver Madushan was lovely although his English was very limited and this prevented any communication about the need to change plans due to the weather etc We got to Kaudulla at 1pm and joined up with another Jeep. At first we were worried we were too early as most safaris recommend a later afternoon start but in spite of the rain we got up close to the wonderful elephants seeing more than 100 in the next 3 hours. When we left the park at 4pm it was v busy with lots of other jeeps. This safari is well worth doing and although we were disappointed with the inability to communicate with our driver we had a great day. However to note if you are hoping to see other animals this safari appears to see the elephants only- well worth it though

tamsing2016, Australia

Mr. V. Kumara has made a great job! You can ask him whatever you want, he has an answer. The safari-tour was sensational and our host/ guide has explained so many things so that everyone can understand. He made some jokes and it was real fun, he speaks english fluently. If the plan for the day changes a little bit, he can react flexible, so he finds a solution. So thank you for this great experience, V. Kumara!! :) Greetings from Germany Bernd (Frankfurt a.M.)

berndm1990

Helpful Questions

What wildlife can be spotted at Kaudulla National Park?

Kaudulla National Park is most famous for its herds of Asian elephants. But it is also home to a variety of other wildlife, including sambar deer, spotted deer, wild boars, and Sri Lankan axis deer. Visitors can also spot leopards, sloth bears, and different species of monkeys, such as the endemic toque macaque and purple-faced langur. The park is also known for its diverse birdlife, including the endemic Sri Lankan junglefowl and Sri Lanka grey hornbill.

What is the best time to visit Kaudulla National Park?

The best time to visit Kaudulla National Park is during the dry season, from July to November, when the park's reservoir and other water sources dry up, making it easier to spot wildlife at the remaining water sources. During this time, visitors can witness large herds of elephants gathering at the Kaudulla reservoir for water. However, the park is open year-round, and each season offers a unique experience.

How can I explore Kaudulla National Park?

Visitors can explore Kaudulla National Park through organized jeep safaris, which can be arranged with local tour operators. Jeep safaris are the best way to see the park's diverse wildlife and landscapes. The safaris usually last for three to four hours, and experienced guides will accompany visitors. The guides tend to have a good eye for spotting wildlife so you'll be able to see wildlife that you won't otherwise spot yourself!

Is Kaudulla or Minneriya National Park better?

In terms of visitor numbers, Kaudulla is quieter compared to Minneriya. There are fewer jeeps in Kaudulla National Park so you can take a lot of photos without getting bombed by other tourists. Minneriya is definitely more scenic compared to Kaudulla but there are more visitors to Minneriya as a result! As for seeing elephants, travellers have reported seeing more elephants at Minneriya National Park. However, the elephants move between Kaudulla and Minneriya National Park as the parks are just 40 minutes apart, so it really depends on when you go. If your safari guide isn't able to find elephants at one of the parks, they may take you to the other national park.

Where are the best things to do in Kaudulla National Park?

The most popular things to do in Kaudulla National Park are:

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