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Lahugala Kitulana National Park
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wildlife-area
Lahugala Kitulana National Park is one of the smallest yet most ecologically significant national parks in Sri Lanka, located in the Ampara District in the east. It was officially gazetted in 1980 and covers an area of just 1,554 hectares. Despite its limited size, the park is of critical importance as a habitat for Asian elephants, which congregate in large herds at the Lahugala Tank, especially during the dry season. The landscape is a mosaic of dry zone evergreen forests, scrublands, and vast wetlands rich in Beru grass, a favored food source for elephants. Besides the elephant population, the park supports leopards, sloth bears, and a diverse range of endemic bird species. Historically, the park is situated near the ancient ruins of Magul Maha Viharaya, reflecting a long history of human habitation in the region. Preserving this park is essential for maintaining elephant migratory corridors in the eastern part of the island. Management by the Department of Wildlife Conservation ensures that human interference in this sensitive ecosystem is kept to a minimum.
- Location: Sri Lanka
- Top sights: Kokkatumulla · Buruthagaha Viewpoint · Sengamuwa Archaeological Site
- Nearby: Okanda (7 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Jun, Jul.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 23 | 23 | 25 | 26 | 26 | 26 | 26 | 26 | 26 | 25 | 24 | 23 |
| Rain mm | 144 | 106 | 102 | 155 | 128 | 62 | 50 | 65 | 112 | 221 | 289 | 262 |
📋 Practical info
Best season
The dry season, typically falling between July and October, is broadly considered the most favorable period, as elephants congregate around the shrinking water bodies.
Best time of day
Late afternoon is generally the optimal window for wildlife viewing, as the intense midday heat subsides and large mammals begin emerging from the thick forest cover.
Etiquette
Visitors must stay inside their designated safari vehicles at all times, keep noise to an absolute minimum, and strictly avoid bringing plastics into this sensitive ecosystem.
What to bring
Bring a strong pair of binoculars to spot endemic bird species high in the canopy, along with plenty of drinking water, sun protection, and a camera with a telephoto lens.
Getting there
Situated in the eastern part of the island, the park is typically accessed via the main coastal road, where you can arrange for local safari jeeps equipped for rugged terrain.
What to expect
Wildlife sightings are never entirely guaranteed, so embrace the journey, carefully scan the tall grass edges, and enjoy the tranquil beauty of this lesser-visited wilderness area.
Geography
Facts
- The park spans a total area of 1,554 hectares
- It was officially established in 1980
- Large elephant herds gather at the Lahugala Tank
- Beru grass is the primary food source for elephants here
- Ancient ruins of Magul Maha Viharaya are located nearby
- It is among the smallest national parks in Sri Lanka
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
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Sights in the town Lahugala Kitulana National Park (8)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Why should you visit this small park?
It is one of the best places to see large herds of elephants feeding.
Which plant is particularly important here?
The 'Beru' grass, which grows in the lagoons and serves as food for elephants.
What time of day can you see the elephants?
Mostly in the late afternoon, when they come out of the forest to the water tanks.
Are there historical ruins there?
Yes, the ancient Magul Maha Viharaya temple is located very nearby.
Can you see the park from the road?
Yes, elephants can often be spotted directly from the A4 main road.
Lahugala Kitulana National Park: where is it located?
Lahugala Kitulana National Park is located in Sri Lanka.
Lahugala Kitulana National Park: what is there to see?
Highlights include Kokkatumulla, Buruthagaha Viewpoint, Sengamuwa Archaeological Site.
Lahugala Kitulana National Park: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Jun, Jul.
Lahugala Kitulana National Park: why is it worth visiting?
Lahugala Kitulana National Park is one of the smallest yet most ecologically significant national parks in Sri Lanka, located in the Ampara District in the east.
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