Kaudulla National Park

Michael Turtle - timetravelturtle.com

Known as the elephant corridor between Somawathiya and Mineeriya, Kaudulla is the best place in Sri Lanka to spot wild elephants. Safari rides take up about 4 to 5 hours and can be done either in the morning or afternoons. Afternoon safaris have a better chance of seeing elephants in larger herds.

There are private safari jeeps which you can arrange mostly through any of the hotels in Dambulla, Habarana or Polonnaruwa. They include pick-ups and drop offs and are reasonably priced.

Baby elephants with their giant parents can be spotted in the park, creating amazing sights for photographs. Unlike its big brother Minneriya park Kaudulla is less busy and less touristy. The park is home to about 250 - 300 elephants. It is an all year round park but the best time to visit is between July to December.

There are other animals like fishing cats, sambar deers, sloth bears and Sri Lankan leopards.

The park opens at 6:00 AM to 6:00PM everyday.