Lahugala Kitulana National Park
Eastern Province
About Lahugala Kitulana National Park
Lahugala Kitulana is one of Sri Lanka's smallest national parks and one of its most effortless wildlife experiences. Its centrepiece, the ancient Lahugala tank, grows a spinach-green carpet of beru grass that elephants find irresistible: in the dry months, herds dozens strong wade in to feed through the afternoon, and because the Pottuvil–Moneragala road passes right alongside, the spectacle can sometimes be enjoyed from the roadside without even entering the park. The surrounding forest holds leopards, sloth bears, and fine dry-zone birdlife. A kilometre away stand the evocative ruins of Magul Maha Viharaya - by tradition the site of King Kavan Tissa's wedding to Viharamahadevi - where a carved moonstone uniquely shows mahouts riding its stone elephants. For anyone driving to or from Arugam Bay, Lahugala is the easiest great detour on the east coast.
Top Activities
- ✓Elephant watching at Lahugala tank
- ✓Magul Maha Viharaya ruins
- ✓Roadside wildlife viewing
- ✓Birdwatching in the dry-zone forest
- ✓Stop-over en route to Arugam Bay
Nearby Attractions
Travel Tips
Late afternoon (3–6pm) is prime feeding time at the tank.
Never leave the vehicle near feeding herds - these are wild elephants.
Don't skip Magul Maha Viharaya; its carvings are special.
Quick Info
Best Time
June to September (elephants at the tank)
Weather
Hot and dry; elephants gather at the tank in the driest months.
Estimated Daily Budget
6.8833°N, 81.7333°E
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