Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
UDA WALAWE UNDER THREAT
Wildlife in Uda Walawe is under threat for several reasons, including illegal settlement and
the associated grazing of cattle. Another problem is poaching and the use of 'Hakka
Patas', small explosive devices that are concealed in food and left on the banks of the Uda
Walawe Reservoir, where wild boar graze. Though the explosives target wild boar, several
elephants have been severely injured in recent years.
All along the main road fringing the park, shops sell fruit to passing motorists who then
attempt to hand feed the wild elephants that gather along the edge of the park fence. Be
aware that feeding the elephants encourages dependence and erodes their fear of hu-
mans. This frequently leads to human-elephant conflict, with the elephants coming out
worse off. While the park rivals East Africa for its elephants, the Sri Lankan National Park
authorities fall behind their competitors in Kenya and Tanzania when it comes to good
conservation practice.
Sleeping & Eating
Options for staying in and around Uda Walawe have mushroomed in the last couple of
years and although much of it is more expensive than you might pay for similar elsewhere
there are still some good places to stay.
Superson Family Guest
GUESTHOUSE
( 047-347 5172;90B CDE Place, Uda Walawe;s Rs 1200, d with/without air-con Rs 3000/1700; )
This guesthouse has simple accommodation, a nice garden and good home-cooked food.
Prices seem to be very flexible.
Athgira River Camping
CAMPGROUND
( 047-223 3296;
www.nilukasafari.com
;
off Army Camp Rd;s/d half-board US$70/85; )
The most appealing and best value place near Uda Walawe National Park. It has 15 heavy
canvas safari tents strung along the river bank. The tents are comfortable rather than lux-
urious, but all have attached (cold-water) bathrooms and proper beds. It's a social place
and the friendly staff organise frequent riverside barbecue nights.
