Kala Wewa National Park

A tranquil sanctuary where giants roam, ancient waters shimmer, and nature’s rhythm flows with grace and grandeur.

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📍 Location & Size

Located in the North Central Province of Sri Lanka, Kala Wewa National Park spans approximately 66 square kilometers, embracing the historic Kala Wewa and Balalu Wewa reservoirs. It lies near Kekirawa, about 30 km southeast of Anuradhapura and is easily accessible from Dambulla or Sigiriya.

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💧 Legacy of Ancient Waters

At the heart of the park is the Kala Wewa reservoir, an awe-inspiring feat of ancient engineering, built in 307 AD by King Dhatusena. This vast man-made lake, along with Balalu Wewa, not only irrigates the region but sustains entire ecosystems, attracting wildlife throughout the year.

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The surrounding landscape is a mix of dry monsoon forest, grasslands, and wetland margins, making it a vital refuge for many species.

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🐘 Land of the Tuskers

Kala Wewa is fast gaining fame for its majestic elephants, particularly mature tuskers, which are rare in Sri Lanka. During the dry season, herds of elephants gather around the lake to drink, bathe, and socialize — offering incredible wildlife viewing and photography opportunities.

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You may witness:

🐘 Large elephant herds in the evening light

🦌 Spotted deer grazing peacefully by the shore

🦅 Raptors and waders circling above the water

🐊 Mugger crocodiles in the shallows

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🦜 Birdlife & Biodiversity

Kala Wewa’s wetlands are home to numerous resident and migratory birds, including:

Painted storks

Openbill storks

Black-headed ibises

Indian and little cormorants

Kingfishers, bee-eaters, and peafowl

Early mornings bring a chorus of birdcalls, making it a delight for birdwatchers and nature lovers alike.

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🕰️ Cultural Roots

Beside the reservoir stands the colossal Avukana Buddha Statue, carved out of granite in the 5th century — a reminder of the region’s rich spiritual and cultural heritage. Kala Wewa is not only a wildlife refuge but a place where history, faith, and ecology converge.

 

🌿 A Park Reborn

Declared a national park in 2015, Kala Wewa remains less crowded and more pristine than other reserves. Conservationists hope to preserve this area as a safe corridor for elephants moving between Anuradhapura, Ritigala, and Wasgamuwa.

It also plays a crucial role in human-elephant coexistence efforts.

 

✨ Why Visit Kala Wewa?

Incredible sightings of tusked elephants

Serene landscapes with historic reservoirs

Ideal for afternoon safaris and elephant photography

Less commercial, peaceful safari experience

Close to cultural landmarks like Avukana Buddha Statue