The Best Time For a Safari at Udawalawe National Park, Uva Province: Afternoon or Morning?

Are you wondering what the best time to go on a safari at Udawalawe National Park in Uva Province is? Is it better to go in the afternoon or morning?

Well, the short answer is that it depends. It mostly depends on your individual preferences and which animals you want to see. However, for more detailed advice, read on.

Udawalawe National Park is one of Sri Lanka’s best-known safaris. It is home to a wide range of animals, including nilgai antelope, wild boar, water buffalo, and Sri Lankan sloth bears. Its landscape is lush and green and its vegetation is varied, with tall grasslands, bushy woodlands and savannahs.

The main attractions of Udawalawe are its large herds of Asian elephants. They can often be seen crossing rivers and bathing in the nearby pools. During your safari, you’ll get to observe these fascinating animals up close, making memories that will last a lifetime.

But while you’re planning your safari, one of the biggest questions is when you should go. Should you set off in the morning or the afternoon? Read on to get the lowdown and decide for yourself.

Pros and Cons of Visiting Udawalawe National Park in the Morning

When it comes to choosing a safari time, there are advantages and disadvantages to visiting Udawalawe National Park in the morning compared to the afternoon.

Pros

• It can be beautiful when the sun rises and casts its golden morning light over the landscape.
• There are fewer visitors to the park in the mornings.
• The animal activity often picks up early in the morning. This is because animals who have been hibernating overnight come out to cool down, take their meals or have a morning bath.

Cons

• It can be cooler in the morning, sometimes even cold if you visit during winter or very early in the morningand these temperatures can make it inconvenient for some visitors.
• The animals are usually on the move at this time, so it can be harder to find them as they are scattered across different areas of the park.
• It may also be difficult to locate certain animals as they stay hidden in their dens during the morning hours.

Pros and Cons of Visiting Udawalawe National Park in the Afternoon

As with visiting in the morning, there are advantages and disadvantages you should be aware of when considering an afternoon safari in Udawalawe National Park.

Pros

• The temperature will be warmer and more comfortable for visitors, more suitable for traveling around the park and spotting wildlife.
• More animals will be active in the afternoon than in the morning as they start to come out from their dens.
• Most of the larger herds of wildlife will congregate around water sources. So it’s easier to find them in a concentrated area at this time of day.

Cons

• The afternoon light is harsher than morning light. This can make it more difficult to take photos of wildlife due to reduced visibility or excessive shadows.
• The park will be more crowded in the afternoon as more visitors will be coming in to watch wildlife.
• The animals may also be farther away or harder to spot due to the increased human presence in the park.

So What’s the Bottom Line?

For any safari experience, it is important to understand which animals you would like to observe and when they are most active. If you want to spot larger herds of elephants, it’s best to go in the afternoon as that’s typically when they group together around waterholes. However, for smaller mammals and birds, such as wild boar and kingfishers, heading out during morning hours might give you better chances of spotting them. Regardless of what time you opt for, do remember that a safari experience at Udawalawe National Park will be an unforgettable experience no matter when you visit.

If you’re feeling inspired and ready to go on a safari at Udawalawe National Park, then book your activity here. Get ready for an exciting and educational adventure that will take you deep into the enchanting world of these marvelous animals!

An Insider’s Guide to Udawalawe National Park and the Uva Province

If you’re looking for breathtaking landscapes, unique cultural experiences, and the opportunity to see exotic wildlife, then the Uva Province in Sri Lanka, and Udawalawe National Park, in particular, is the place for you. While there is no bad time for a safari at Udawalawe, choosing between morning or afternoon might depend on the type of experience you’re after. Here’s an insider’s guide to the best-kept secrets of this incredible region, including less-known local attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, historical insights, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions that guarantee an unforgettable trip.

Local Attractions: Discovering Hidden Gems

Most tourists flock to the popular Udawalawe National Park to catch a glimpse of the park’s majestic elephant population. However, there’s more to explore in this region than just the park. Head over to the nearby Elephant Transit Home, where you can observe the orphaned baby elephants on their path to rehabilitation and eventual return to the wild.

For something more adventurous, embark on a trek to the hidden Tangamale Bird Sanctaury, located a few kilometers east of Wellawaya. This secluded paradise is a must-see for bird enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Dining Spots: Savoring Local Cuisine

Sri Lanka is known for its diverse and flavorful cuisine, and the Uva Province boasts some of the best local food experiences available. Start your day with a hearty breakfast of traditional hoppers from a street-side vendor. For lunch, head over to Thammita’s Rice & Curry, a restaurant favored by locals, to savor the country’s signature dish. Don’t miss out on the famous Sri Lankan tea, which is best enjoyed at the scenic Ella Tea Estate.

Learn about the city’s food culture at the famous Dambatenne Tea Factory, which offers an insightful tour of the history and process behind producing Sri Lanka’s most beloved beverage. Indulging in local cuisine is a perfect way to immerse yourself in the culture of any given region.

Cultural Experiences: Immersing in Traditions and Festivals

The Uva Province is a melting pot of Sri Lanka’s diverse cultural and religious traditions. The Kataragama Esala Festival is a must-attend event, where pilgrims seek blessings from the Hindu war god Kataragama. This ten-day festival takes place every July or August.

For something more serene, pay a visit to the historic Muthiyangana Temple – an important pilgrimage site for Buddhists. The serene setting of the temple offers a sense of peace and tranquillity to tourists that you won’t find anywhere else.

Local History: Uncovering Fascinating Stories

The Uva Province is home to a rich history that spans back centuries. From the awe-inspiring ruins of the Gal Vihara, a rock temple complex located in the town of Polonnaruwa, to the historical Dambulla Cave Temple, which has an incredible collection of murals and Buddhist artwork, the Uva Province offers plenty to those curious about history.

Other historical places of interest include the Sacred City of Anuradhapura, an ancient capital of Sri Lanka where you can see archeological wonders like the Ruwanwelisaya Stupa, and Sigiriya Rock, the 5th-century fortress that has become a symbol of Sri Lanka.

Off-The-Beaten-Path Suggestions

Want something truly unique and unforgettable to add to your itinerary? Take an unforgettable hot air balloon ride over the captivating landscape of the Uva Province. Or experience the thrill of climbing Adam’s Peak and witness the most awe-inspiring sunrises at the summit.

Another off-the-beaten-path experience is a visit to the Dhowa Rock Temple, an ancient temple dating back to the Pandyan Dynasty of South India, where you can see incredible cave paintings and unique Buddhist artwork.

In conclusion, the Uva Province is a destination that is rich with history, culture, and natural beauty. Utilize this insider’s guide to plan your next trip to Udawalawe National Park and beyond. Experience the art, food, and traditions of Sri Lanka that you can’t find in any guidebook. Plan your trip today.