Sri Lanka’s Premier Elephant Sanctuary
If seeing wild Asian elephants in their natural habitat is on your bucket list, Uda Walawe National Park is the ultimate destination. Located approximately 1.5 hours inland from Tangalle, this park was created to provide a sanctuary for wild animals displaced by the construction of the Udawalawe Reservoir.
Home to an estimated population of over 500 to 700 wild elephants, sightings are virtually guaranteed on every safari.
Elephant Transit Home (ETH)
Near the park entrance lies the renowned Elephant Transit Home supported by Born Free Foundation. Orphaned wild elephant calves are nursed back to health here and rehabilitated before being released back into the wild.
Visitors can watch milk feeding sessions from a respectful viewing platform at 9 AM, 12 PM, 3 PM, and 6 PM daily.
Guaranteed Elephant Sightings
With open savanna grasslands and constant water supply, wild elephant herds are guaranteed on almost every safari drive.
Insider Visitor Tips
- Visit the Elephant Transit Home feeding time just before your afternoon safari.
- Bring binoculars for birdwatching around the reservoir (eagles, pelicans, hornbills).
- An ideal day trip option easily reachable from White Villa Tangalle.
Stay at White Villa Goyambokka
Located just 550m from Goyambokka Beach, White Villa provides luxury air-conditioned rooms, delicious fresh breakfasts, and transport support for all Tangalle attractions.