Sightseeing in Udawalawe

October 31, 2026

Most sightseeing near Udawalawe is natural, but a few historic places lie within a short drive. Distances are approximate and by road, so confirm with your driver. Ask about entry fees at the heritage sites on arrival.

Udawalawe Dam and Reservoir

The earth and gravity dam runs about 3.9 to 4.5 km and was built in the 1960s, holding a reservoir of about 3,400 hectares and 267 million cubic metres. A road crosses the embankment, so you can drive across and look over the water and the elephants along the shore. There is no gate on the road. The lake edge is also inside or beside the park, so stay in your vehicle. Wild bulls sometimes beg here; never feed them.

Elephant Transit Home pavilion

A covered pavilion holding about 350 people looks over the milk feedings of orphaned calves. The Department of Wildlife Conservation has run the centre since 1995. Sessions are usually about 10:30, 14:30 and 18:00, so confirm on the day. A foreign adult pays USD 5 plus VAT. Viewing only.

Sankapala Raja Maha Viharaya

At Pallebedda, in Ratnapura District just off the Ratnapura to Hambantota road, this is a rock-shelter temple linked by tradition to Pussadeva, one of King Dutugemunu’s warriors. Brahmi inscriptions run beneath the drip-ledges. Cave IV has an image house with a reclining Buddha, and nearby are a tomb attributed to Pussadeva and a ruined dagoba. It is a short drive north-west of Udawalawe, and distance estimates vary, so ask your driver. It is a place of worship: dress modestly and remove your shoes. Check any fee on arrival.

Maduwanwela Walawwa, Kolonna

This manor house between Embilipitiya and Rakwana belonged to the Maduwanwela family. It dates from the 18th century, with its last expansion in 1905. The state took it over in 1974, and it is now a museum run by the Department of Archaeology and a protected monument. It once had 121 rooms and 21 inner courtyards, and about 43 rooms remain. Expect a small fee, and confirm hours. It is about an hour or less by car from Udawalawe.

Chandrika Wewa, Embilipitiya

This reservoir and spillway sits outside Embilipitiya, the nearest city. It looks best when water flows over the spillway, roughly December to April. It is a short stop on the way to or from the city rather than a full outing.

Buduruwagala rock carvings

Near Wellawaya, on the Wellawaya to Thanamalwila road, these Mahayana-style carvings show a Buddha with bodhisattvas. They are usually dated to about the 10th century, though the dating is uncertain. The site is about 5 to 9 km from Wellawaya and a natural stop between Udawalawe and Ella.

Planning tips

Heritage stops combine well in a half-day with a driver. Heavy monsoon rain can cause floods and landslides, so check FCDO advice before you travel.

Read the Wikipedia entry on Udawalawe Dam for engineering detail. Check park details on the Department of Wildlife Conservation site . Compare guided heritage outings on GetYourGuide .