While the Lunugamvehera National Park in Sri Lanka may not be as well-known as some of its counterparts, it offers some amazing wildlife encounters well worth experiencing.
Planning a Visit
This national park is located around 261 km from the commercial capital, Colombo. It can be reached from the Hambantota-Wellawaya Road or Sella Kataragama-Buttala Road. Those staying at hotels bordering the Yala National Paark such as Chena Huts by Uga Escapes can easily plan excursions here too.
Diverse Mammals
Those looking for more things to do in Yala can plan a visit to Lunugamvehera for encounters with diverse mammals. Since it acts as an elephant corridor between Udawalawe and Yala, you can expect to see many wild elephants. Other animals you may encounter include sambar deer, buffaloes, sloth bears, wild boars, giant squirrels and mongooses.
Colourful Birdlife
Those interested in birdwatching in Sri Lanka will also enjoy a visit since over 180 avifauna species have been recorded here. Waterbirds the likes of the Asian openbill, grey heron, spot-billed pelican and painted stork may be seen along with Marshall’s iora, Sri Lankan junglefowl, crested hawk-eagle and more.
Flora & Other Fauna
When it comes to the flora of the Lunugamvehera National Park, one will find scrublands, evergreen forests and grasslands. This sanctuary is home to a variety of reptiles, amphibians and fish species too. Amongst the highlights are the mugger crocodile, Russell’s viper, Indian cobra, water monitor and various frog species.
