Choosing where to stay near Udawalawe National Park can make or break your safari. Travel time from your hotel to the park at sunrise, whether there is a pool to cool down in afterwards, can transport be arranged for you… there are many things to factor in when picking a place to stay, to make sure your safari is the best it can be.
Here is why we believe Jungle Paradise Hotel is a top contender. We are rated 4.8 on TripAdvisor, and were named the number one hotel to stay at in Udawalawe for 2026.
Close to Both the Park and the Elephant Transit Home
Our hotel is a short distance from both the Udawalawe National Park entrance and the Elephant Transit Home. We can arrange private transport for both excursions, so you do not need to plan logistics yourself. This also means less time travelling and more time watching wildlife. When you want to be at the parl before sunrise, the closer you are staying, the better!
A Pool for Relaxing Between Safaris
Safari days usually start early, before sunrise, and can be warm by midday. Our pool is a good place to relax and cool down between excursions, or simply to unwind in the afternoon before dinner. It’s a bonus that it’s surrounded by green trees and wildlife.
Food That Reflects Local Sri Lankan Cooking
Meals at Jungle Paradise are prepared using traditional Sri Lankan recipes and local ingredients. Many guests tell us the food is one of the highlights of their stay, our Nasi Goreng is always a hit. Our chef is highly rated and the ingredients are always fresh. Some guests will also be pleased to know we offer a few ‘less Sri Lankan’ options too, if you are looking for some comfort food.
Starlink Internet, If You Want It
We now have Starlink internet at the hotel, so you can stay connected if you need to check emails, share photos, or video call home. That said, we would gently recommend switching off during your stay. Udawalawe is a quiet, natural setting, and many guests find that disconnecting for a few days is part of what makes the trip memorable.
The choice is yours. The connection is there when you need it, and the option to switch off is always available too.
From the short travel time to the park each morning, to the pool waiting for you in the afternoon, the local food on your plate, and a reliable internet connection when you want it, we have tried to think through everything that makes a safari stay easier and more enjoyable. We believe this is reflected in our 4.8 TripAdvisor rating and our recognition as the number one guest house in Udawalawe for 2026.
BOOK NOW to plan your stay with us.
