Kaudulla National Park

Polonnaruwa, North Central

Wild elephants gathering at the edge of Kaudulla reservoir during the dry season — Photo: David Stanley / CC BY 2.0 / Wikimedia Commons

Gazetted in 2002, Kaudulla was created partly to extend a protected corridor linking elephant habitats between Sigiriya, Minneriya, and Wasgamuwa, and today it plays host to its own version of "The Gathering" — one of the largest wild elephant congregations in Asia. As the ancient Kaudulla reservoir shrinks during the dry season, herds well over 200 strong converge on the exposed grassland margins to graze and drink, sometimes visible right alongside pelicans, painted storks, and grazing deer. It sees noticeably fewer jeeps than its more famous neighbor Minneriya, making for a calmer, less crowded safari during the same peak season.

Wildlife safaris

Best time to visit

August to December, when herds gather in the largest numbers around the shrinking reservoir; peak sightings tend to fall in September and October.

Visitor tip

Check current park access and use an authorised safari service.

Local pick

A paddle-boat trip on the reservoir offers a quieter, closer approach to roosting waterbirds than the standard road-based jeep safari.

Quick answers

Where is Kaudulla National Park?

Kaudulla National Park is in Polonnaruwa, North Central Province, Sri Lanka.

When is the best time to visit Kaudulla National Park?

August to December, when herds gather in the largest numbers around the shrinking reservoir; peak sightings tend to fall in September and October.

How far is Kaudulla National Park from Colombo?

About 174 km in a straight line. Road journeys are longer, so check current travel times before you go.

What is near Kaudulla National Park?

Nearby places include Minneriya National Park (about 13 km away), Ritigala Monastery (about 23 km away), Sigiriya Rock Fortress (about 24 km away), Pidurangala Rock (about 25 km away).

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More places in North Central Province

More to see around Sigiriya: things to do in Sigiriya. Planning a trip? See the top attractions in Sri Lanka, the best time to visit and how many days you need.