Discover Lunugamvehera National Park: A Vital Link in Sri Lanka’s Wildlife Corridor

Introduction
Nestled in the Moneragala and Hambantota districts of Sri Lanka, Lunugamvehera National Park is a vital ecological hub that connects the Yala Protected Area Complex to the east and Udawalawe National Park to the west. Established to protect the catchment area of the Lunugamvehera Reservoir, this park plays a crucial role in facilitating elephant migration and conserving biodiversity. Covering 23,498 hectares, Lunugamvehera offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience Sri Lanka’s rich wildlife and stunning landscapes.

Location and Access

Lunugamvehera National Park is strategically located within the divisional secretariats of Thanamalwila, Wellawaya, Kalanapama, and Buttala. The park office is situated in Lunugamvehera on the Wellawaya-Hambantota road.

Access Routes from Colombo:
1. Via Ratnapura, Udawalawe, Thanamalwila, Lunugamvehera (approx. 231 km)
2. Via Hambantota, Tissamaharama, Thanamalwila, Lunugamvehera (approx. 265 km)

The park’s accessibility makes it a convenient destination for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Ecological Significance

Lunugamvehera National Park serves as a critical link for elephant migration between Yala, Udawalawe, and other regions like Haldummulla and Koslanda. The park’s diverse habitats, including dry forests, grasslands, and water bodies, support a wide range of wildlife, including elephants, leopards, and numerous bird species.

- Lunugamvehera Reservoir: Covering 14% of the park, the reservoir is a lifeline for both wildlife and local communities. At full capacity, it spans 3,283 hectares, providing essential water resources during the dry season.
- Biodiversity: The park’s dry land area of 20,157 hectares is home to a variety of flora and fauna, making it a hotspot for eco-tourism and research.

Climate

The park experiences a bimodal seasonal rainfall pattern, with an average annual rainfall of about 1,000 mm at Thanamalwila. Temperatures remain uniformly high throughout the year, averaging around 30°C. The dry season offers the best opportunities for wildlife viewing, as animals gather around water sources.

Visitor Facilities

Lunugamvehera National Park offers basic yet comfortable facilities for visitors:
- Camp Sites: Pahala Pavuweva and Bolhindagala
- Bungalows: Veheragala and Thalgahadigana
Reservations can be made at the Head Office in Battaramulla by calling 011 288 8585.

Why Visit Lunugamvehera National Park?

- Elephant Safaris: Witness large herds of elephants migrating through the park.
- Bird Watching: Explore the park’s diverse avian population, including endemic and migratory species.
- Scenic Landscapes: Enjoy the serene beauty of the reservoir, dry forests, and grasslands.
- Conservation Impact: Support efforts to protect Sri Lanka’s wildlife and ecosystems.

Plan Your Visit

- Best Time to Visit: The dry season (May to September) is ideal for wildlife spotting.
- What to Bring: Binoculars, sunscreen, and comfortable clothing for safaris.
- How to Get There: Choose from two main routes from Colombo, depending on your starting point.

Start planning your adventure to Lunugamvehera National Park today! For more travel tips and information, visit srilankatourhelp.org.