Lahugala Kitulana National Park

Lahugala Kitulana National Park is one of the smallest but most exciting national parks in Sri Lanka. It is located in the Eastern Province, about 320 km away from Colombo. Even though it is small (covering around 1,554 hectares), it is very famous for its wildlife. The park has three main lakes or tanks: Lahugala, Kitulana, and Sengamuwa. These tanks are covered with a special grass called “Beru,” which elephants love to eat. The area is mostly flat with some rocky parts and is home to beautiful evergreen forests. It is a quiet and hidden place compared to bigger parks like Yala.

📌 Why should you visit there?

You should visit here mainly to see elephants. This park is known as one of the best places in Sri Lanka to see large groups of elephants feeding together. Sometimes, you can see up to 150 elephants at once near the water! It is also a paradise for bird lovers. Because it is less crowded than other parks, you can enjoy nature peacefully. If you like history, this place is special because it is linked to ancient kings and queens of Sri Lanka.

The park has a strong historical connection. Legend says that the nearby Magul Maha Viharaya (temple) is where King Kavantissa married Princess Viharamahadevi. There are also ruins of an ancient stupa called Neelagiri Maha Seya inside the park jungle. The “Beru” grass in the tanks is the secret reason why so many elephants come here—it is their favorite food!

📌 Things to do in there

✅ Jeep Safari: Go on a safari drive to see elephants and other animals like sloth bears, leopards, and deer.

✅ Bird Watching: Look for colorful birds like the Red-faced Malkoha, Kingfishers, and Pelicans.

✅ Photography: Take amazing photos of elephants and the “snow-white” egrets (birds) that often ride on the elephants’ backs.

✅ Visit Ancient Ruins: Explore the Magul Maha Viharaya temple located just outside the northern edge of the park.

📌 How to get there

🚗 By Road: You can drive from Colombo via Ratnapura, Wellawaya, and Monaragala. It is on the A4 main road (Colombo-Batticaloa road).

🚗 From Arugam Bay: If you are surfing in Arugam Bay, it is very close! It is only about 15 km away, which is a short 20-30 minute drive.

🚌 Bus: You can take a bus heading to Pottuvil or Monaragala that passes through Siyambalanduwa.

📌 What experience visitors can get

Visitors often describe the experience as “authentic” and “intimate.“ Unlike big parks where hundreds of jeeps surround one animal, here you feel like you are alone with nature. You will experience the thrill of seeing wild elephants very close to you in their natural home. The sight of green grass, blue water, and dark grey elephants is a memory you will never forget.

📌 Important tips and guides

⚠️ Safety: Always stay inside your safari jeep. Wild elephants can be dangerous if disturbed.

⚠️ Best Time: The best time to visit is during the dry months, usually from July to August, when elephants gather at the water tanks.

⚠️ Clothing: Wear comfortable cotton clothes. Neutral colors like green or brown are best to blend in with the jungle.

⚠️ Essentials: Bring sunblock, a hat, water, and insect repellent.

Lahugala Kitulana National Park is a small treasure box of nature. It may not be the biggest park, but it offers one of the best elephant gatherings in the country. It is perfect for families, nature lovers, and anyone who wants a peaceful wildlife adventure away from the busy crowds.