Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home History
The Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home was established in 1995 by the Department of Wildlife Conservation to care for orphaned, injured, and abandoned elephant calves found throughout Sri Lanka. Located on the edge of Udawalawe National Park, the facility was created with a unique mission: to rehabilitate young elephants and return them to the wild rather than keeping them in captivity.
Book Udawalawe Transit Home Tickets | Limited Slots Per day
⭐ Rated 4.9 by 4800+ travelers | ✔ Instant WhatsApp booking | ✔ Free cancellation*
Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home History
Sri Lanka has one of the largest populations of wild Asian elephants in the world. However, many elephant calves become separated from their mothers due to accidents, human-elephant conflict, drought, or natural causes. Before the establishment of the Elephant Transit Home, orphaned calves had limited chances of survival in the wild.
A Unique Conservation Project
Unlike traditional elephant orphanages, the Elephant Transit Home minimizes human contact. The goal is to help elephants retain their natural instincts so they can successfully survive after release.
Key Features
- No elephant rides
- No direct visitor interaction
- Focus on rehabilitation
- Wild release program
- Ethical wildlife tourism
Releasing Elephants Back to the Wild
One of the most successful aspects of the project is its elephant release program. After several years of care, many elephants are released into protected habitats, including Udawalawe National Park. Some released elephants are monitored through tracking programs to study their adaptation to life in the wild.
The Elephant Transit Home Today
Today, the Elephant Transit Home is one of Sri Lanka’s most visited wildlife attractions. Thousands of local and international visitors come each year to observe baby elephants during feeding times and learn about conservation efforts.
The facility has become an important symbol of wildlife protection in Sri Lanka and is often regarded as one of the most ethical elephant conservation centers in Asia.
Interesting Facts
Attracts visitors from around the world
Established in 1995
Located near Udawalawe National Park
Cares for orphaned elephant calves
Focuses on rehabilitation and release
Has successfully released many elephants back into the wild
Tour Prices
Entrance ticket fee for Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home and Safari:
- Entrance ticket fee for Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home and jeep Safari : Per Person Cost Price (min 2 Person) – US$ 80 / EUR75 / GBP 65) per foreign adult and US$ 40 / EUR 38 / GBP 33 per foreign child of age 03 – 12 years are applicable.
Book Udawalawe Transit Home & Safari Tickets | Limited Slots Per day