Serving as a link between the Yala Protected Area Complex to its east and Udawalawe National Park to its west, the park facilitates the ranging of Asian elephants to and from areas such as Haldummula and Koslanda in Uva Province and the southern region of Sri Lanka.
Lying in the dry zone, conditions in the park are characterised by an annual drought coinciding with the southwest monsoon. The park contains vast and featureless, gently undulating plains, with rock-knob plains generally occupying the slightly more elevated areas to the south. Established on the 8th December 1995, it covers 23,498 hectares with a significant amount of land (14%) occupied by the Lunugamvehera reservoir.
The vegetation includes different stages of forest succession along with scrub/ grasslands mosaics. The shifting cultivation (chena) has caused degradation of the forest communities to open thorny shrub and grassland communities, whilst the dense forest, which is dry mixed evergreen, is dominated by weera, palu, kon and hik.
21 fish species, 12 amphibians, 33 reptiles, 184 birds and 43 mammal species have been recorded in the park. Elephants frequent the teak plantations found within the park boundary, whilst other areas are home to domestic feral and wild buffalo and palm squirrel, giant squirrel, porcupine, palm cat wild boar, mouse deer and spotted deer. Sloth bear and leopard are present but found in low densities.
Visitors can reach Lunugamvehera National Park from hotels in Tissamaharama or Kataragama. Tree Tops Jungle Safaris is an exceptional experience relatively close by.
Sri Lanka
This itinerary has been crafted specifically for families (with older kids and teens), drawing on our own experiences of travelling with our kids in Sri Lanka. We’ve designed it to include some top spots, both on and off the beaten track, while carefully planning each route to eliminate travel fatigue. The trip begins and ends with a stay along the south coast.
Yala National Park
Spot elusive leopards and sloth bears on a private safari in Yala’s quieter Block 5
The Pekoe Trail
Totally immersed in nature and culture on a scenic walk along the Pekoe Trail, meeting local tea pluckers
Udawalawe Elephant Sanctuary
Witness the magic of elephant feeding at Udawalawe’s conservation sanctuary
Mawella Bay
Relax on the tranquil shores of Mawella Bay, ideal for swimming and kayaking
Sri Lanka
Travel slowly through the south of Sri Lanka. This itinerary takes in some of the most beautiful locations in the country staying in the best hotels.
Amanwella
A stay at Amanwella, one of Sri Lanka’s most refined beach retreats
Yala National Park
The chance to see elephants, leopards, and birdlife in Yala National Park on safari with your naturalist guide
Galle Fort
Explore the charming UNESCO World Heritage Galle Fort
Sri Lanka
Explore Sri Lanka with immersive local experiences, wilderness adventures, and luxury hotel stays.
This itinerary is all about balancing our cultural and outdoor adventures with exceptional hotels. It is ideal for people who love luxury accommodation but don’t like to end up in could-be-anywhere hotels where they feel cut off from their destination. There is plenty of time to enjoy a range of carefully crafted experiences without missing out on the relaxation and quality that each unique hotel offers.
Seaplane journey
A scenic seaplane journey into the Cultural Triangle to cut driving times, giving you more time to spend enjoying the area and your hotel
Ahaspokuna
Stay in a luxury tented camp in a rarely visited part of the Sri Lankan wilderness.
South Coast
Spend time relaxing in a boutique hotel on the south coast, spending a day cruising down the Kapu Ela river and exploring this remote area by tuk-tuk.
Sri Lanka
This family adventure through Sri Lanka is designed to help you uncover the best of the island in style, with minimal travel hassle. From scenic landscapes to unique excursions, every moment is crafted to bring your family together in shared experiences. With chauffeur-guided journeys and a scenic seaplane flight, you’ll minimise travel time and enjoy spectacular aerial views of this beautiful island.
Yala National Park
Discover wildlife on thrilling safaris in Yala National Park, from leopards to elephants.
South Coast
Unwind on the south coast at a luxurious beachside resort offering yoga, surfing, and ocean vistas.
Private seaplane transfers
Savour ultimate comfort with private seaplane transfers, luxury lodges, and dedicated service throughout.
Cultural Triangle
Climb Sigiriya Rock Fortress at sunrise, soaking in the breathtaking views of the Cultural Triangle.
