Lunugamvehera National Park

Located adjacent to Yala National Park, Lunugamvehera National Park is home to a diverse array of species, ranging from Sri Lankan elephants to the endemic Atukorale’s dwarf toad. Designated as a protected area in 1995, Lunugamvehera National Park is a wildlife corridor for elephants migrating between Yala and Udawalawe National Parks.

Although not as famous as its neighbour, there is certainly no shortage of terrestrial, aquatic or avian residents at Lunugamvehera National Park. Some of the species here include elephants, leopards, spotted deer, tufted grey langurs and more. But the stunning birdlife is the cynosure of all eyes, partly due to the numerous aquatic species such as painted stork, black-headed ibis and spot-billed pelican at the adjoining Lunugamvehera reservoir. For an opportunity to explore the park at one’s leisure, visitors can also stay at a bungalow run by the Department of Wildlife Conservation, opposite a tank at the park’s premises.

If you are looking for a birdwatching excursion away from the hustle and bustle of the famous national parks, or want to photograph the wildlife, Lunugamvehera National Park is undoubtedly your best bet.