Elephant Trail, Udawalawe ➤ Reviews, Rooms & Prices 2026

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Key details

About the Hotel

No. 35, 5Th Mile Post Thanamalvila Road Udawalawa, Udawalawe, Sri Lanka

Next to Udawalawe National Park

Great

8.1

6.4

/10

5.0

4.2

Loved by Elephant Trail guests

Attentive staff
Delicious food
Clean pool
Spacious rooms

"Perfect location for a safari at Udawalale."

Bev from New Zealand

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"Also they provide foot cycles FREE to cycle around the area."

chathura maduranga

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"The hotel also arranged the safari for us which was great, and park entrance is only 10 mins away."

RJS from United Kingdom

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Location

Elephant Trail is located directly on the border of Udawalawe National Park, a renowned area for viewing elephants and diverse wildlife. The hotel is surrounded by extensive sugarcane fields at the rear, providing a unique glimpse into southern rural life. Adventurous travelers can access thrilling safari experiences just steps away from the hotel entrance.

Rooms

The hotel offers chicly styled rooms equipped with contemporary highlights for a comfortable stay. Each room provides a peaceful atmosphere, focusing on relaxation and convenience. This boutique setting ensures that guests experience the essence of luxury at an attractive price point.

Dining

The dining experience at Elephant Trail includes a restaurant that overlooks the pool, creating a tranquil environment for meals. Guests can enjoy a buffet and à la carte menu featuring both traditional and western cuisines, prepared by talented chefs. Unique culinary experiences, such as BBQ dinners and romantic candlelight dinners, can be arranged upon request.

Activities

Elephant Trail encourages guests to experience a variety of activities, including bird watching and bicycle rides through the surrounding countryside. Wild safaris in Udawalawe National Park are also available, providing opportunities to see elephants and other wildlife up close. The hotel's knowledgeable staff can assist with booking these excursions for a memorable experience.

Wellness and Relaxation

The hotel's inventive roofing concept enhances guests' comfort and connection to nature, promoting relaxation. A pool area offers a refreshing escape after a day of adventure, allowing guests to unwind. Various wellness activities can be inquired about at the hotel for those interested in enhancing their experience.

Highlights

Location: Udawalawe National Park entrance

Rooms: Chicly styled comfortable rooms

Dining: Restaurant overlooking the pool

Activities: Wild safaris and bird watching

Dining: BBQ Dinner upon request

“Nestled near Udawalawe National Park, this boutique hideaway merges upscale comforts with the charm of rural Sri Lanka. I was particularly drawn to the personalized wildlife packages and the dining, which features locally sourced ingredients. Its location makes it ideal for travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation.”

Anna BlackEditor-in-Chief at Tohotel

Location: Perfect

9.0/10Review score

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Highlights from guests

DiningTasty buffet!

The breakfast buffet was huge! They served both Sri Lankan and Western food. Lots of fresh fruit and juices, too.

Rajesh from India

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Spa & LeisureRefreshing Pool

The pool was clean and nice. It's the perfect spot to cool off in the afternoons. There's also a baby pool.

Emma from Australia

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Room FeaturesSpacious Rooms

Our room was huge and modern! The AC worked great, and the WiFi was the best I had during my trip.

Hans from Netherlands

Review on

Sports & FitnessFree Bicycles!

They offer free bicycles! I rode towards the reservoir in the evening. It was a great time.

David from Canada

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Select your room type

Elephant Trail offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals

Deluxe Room

2 persons

240 sq. feet

1 King-size bed

Shower

Fireplace

room details

Deluxe Double Room Safari

2 persons

240 sq. feet

1 King-size bed

Shower

Fireplace

room details

Deluxe Triple Room

2 persons

240 sq. feet

1 King-size bed

Shower

Fireplace

room details

Deluxe Single Room

2 persons

240 sq. feet

1 Single bed

Shower

Fireplace

room details

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Facilities

Elephant Trail offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences

Facilities: Great

8.0/10Review score

General

Non-smoking rooms
Free Wi-Fi in public areas
Parking
24-hour reception
VIP check-in/ -out
No pets allowed
Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
Wheelchair access
24-hour security
Luggage storage
Locker room
Currency exchange
Fire extinguishers

Sports & Fitness

Cycling
Fishing

Guest Parking

Electric kettle

Services

Paid airport shuttle
Room service
Housekeeping
Car hire
Laundry
Tours/Ticket assistance
Welcome drink
Happy hour

Dining

In-room breakfast
Restaurant
Bar/ Lounge area
Packed lunches

Children

Babysitting/Child services
Children's buffet
Toys

Spa & Leisure

Outdoor swimming pool
Beach umbrellas
Entertainment
Sun terrace
Garden area
BBQ facilities
Pool with view

Room features

Air conditioning
Mini-bar
Soundproofed rooms
Sitting area
Patio
Terrace
Garden furniture
Tea and coffee facilities
Ironing facilities

Bathroom

Free toiletries
Sink

Self-catering

Electric kettle

Media

Flat-screen TV
AM/FM alarm clock

Room decor

Carpeted floor

Dining Onsite

At Elephant Trail, dining becomes a delightful experience infused with local flavors and international influences. The restaurant provides scenic views of sugar cane fields and the nearby National Park, ensuring every meal is a feast for both the palate and the eyes.

Elephant Trail Udawalawe Restaurant photo

Restaurant #1

Sri Lankan and International

Ambiance

Family-friendly with a modern touch, overlooking the swimming pool

Key Offerings

Signature dishes include traditional Sri Lankan delicacies and BBQ dinners that highlight local culinary artistry, alongside a fine dining concept that caters to international flavors. An array of vegetarian options is also available.

Reservation

Not needed

Open daily from 07:00 to 20:30

Elephant Trail Location

No. 35, 5Th Mile Post Thanamalvila Road Udawalawa, Udawalawe, Sri Lanka

Map view

No. 35, 5Th Mile Post Thanamalvila Road Udawalawa, Udawalawe, Sri Lanka

City landmarks

National Park

Visit Udawalawe National Park

2800 ft

Landmark

Udawalawe Nationalpark Elefant Trail

1.5 mi

Landmark

Safari Udawalawe Jeep Service

1.2 mi

Landmark

Uda Walawe National Park

1.8 mi

Park

Udawalawe Elephants park

1.5 mi

Landmark

Udawalawe Safari by Lakpura

1.5 mi

Landmark

Safari in Sri Lanka

1.5 mi

Landmark

Udawalawe Main entrance

1.5 mi

Nature reserve

Udawalawe National Park

3.0 mi

Landmark

Uda Walawe Reservoir

2.0 mi

Landmark

Earth Lanka tours

2.0 mi

Landmark

udawalawe reservoir 1

2.1 mi

Landmark

Udawalawe Dam

2.3 mi

Landmark

Tank

2.5 mi

Nearby

Nature reserve

Udawalawa National Forest Reserve

1400 ft

Restaurants

Restaurant & Hotel Niwahana

100 ft

36,Tanamalwila Road Ekamutugama,Sevanagala

Explore Udawalawe

Activities & Dining Near Elephant Trail

Udawalawe National Park

11 minutes walking

Famous for its diverse wildlife, including elephants. Enjoy guided safaris for a close-up experience with nature.

Udawalawe Elephants Park

30 minutes walking

Home to rescued elephants, this park focuses on their rehabilitation. Great for family visits and educational experiences.

Uda Walawe Reservoir

10-minute drive

A scenic spot for picnics and bird watching. Ideal for relaxation by the water with captivating views of the surroundings.

Udawalawe Safari by Lakpura

10-minute drive

Guided safari tours offering tailored wildlife experiences. A great adventure for thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike.

Guided Nature Walks

10-minute drive

Enjoy serene hiking routes in Udawalawe National Park. Perfect for solo travelers and families looking to explore nature.

Yoga Retreats

5-minute drive

Wellness programs available nearby offer relaxation and rejuvenation. Great for couples or anyone needing a peaceful getaway.

Restaurant & Hotel Niwahana

5 minutes walking

Serving local Sri Lankan dishes in a cozy setting. Known for flavorful curry and fresh seafood options.

Lakpura Restaurant

10-minute drive

Offers an array of international cuisines with a beautiful view. Reservations recommended for peak dining hours.

Local Cultural Events

5-minute drive

Year-round cultural events showcasing traditional music and dance. Family-friendly and enjoyable for all ages.

Lounge Bars

10-minute drive

Various lounges offering live music and a vibrant atmosphere. Perfect for couples seeking a fun night out.

Getting around

City Centre

Udawalawe9 min · 3.5 mi

Airports

Mattala Rajapaksa International (HRI)70 min · 28.7 mi

Mawella Lagoon SPB (DIW)113 min · 46.7 mi

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Property information and rules

Check-in

from 14:30-20:00

Check-out

until 11 am

Guest Parking

Private parking is possible on site for free.

Internet

Wireless internet is available in public areas for free.

Breakfast

The hotel Elephant Trail serves a full breakfast for free.

Children & extra beds

There are no extra beds provided in a room.

Pets

Pets are not allowed.

Number of rooms:

Reviews and Ratings

Feedback about Elephant Trail from previous guests about their experience.

Review summary

Based on recent reviews

Elephant Trail is popular for its convenient access to Udawalawe National Park, making it a great base for safaris. Guests appreciate the spacious rooms and bathrooms, along with the inviting pool area and sunbeds. Many have also enjoyed half-board packages with included safari planning, while the location overlooking a working sugar plantation has proven interesting to some; however, a few guests have noted that the soundproofing could be improved. The hotel's restaurant is considered good and very affordable.

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Review score

Based on 261 verified reviews

8.2/10

Great

80%

Recommend

Staff

9.3/10

Location

9.0/10

Facilities

8.0/10

Free Wi-Fi

8.0/10

Pros

Safari proximity

Attentive staff

Spacious rooms

Cons

Basic buffet

Limited sunbeds

Isolated location

Oscar from Sweden

Family with children

deluxe room

4 nights in November 2025

Reviewed:February 12, 2026

8.7/10

quiet gem near wildlife

spacious roomfresh towelsquiet air conditioningcomplimentary bikes

the room was spacious and clean. fresh towels were provided daily. i found the air conditioning unit to be quiet and effective. the complimentary bikes were a real bonus, allowing me to explore the surrounding area at my own pace.

the wifi signal in my room was occasionally weak, but it was still manageable.

Facilities

9/10

The hotel provides complimentary bicycles . I took advantage of this. the pool area included several comfortable loungers for relaxation. the hotel also arranged safari tours with experienced guides.

Service

9/10

the staff were generally attentive and polite. check-in was smooth. i needed information about local attractions, and they provided accurate assistance. the staff also prepared a packed breakfast when i left early.

Dining

8/10

the food was tasty and well-presented. the restaurant provided a variety of local dishes. they offered a selection of cocktails in the evening. the service was attentive and my requests were addressed.

0 Helpful

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William from United States

Single

Deluxe Family Room

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed:January 11, 2026

6/10

Average Stay. Some Issues Noted

poor fruitmusty smell

The bathroom cleanliness was not good. I found some hairs, and the shower drain seemed blocked. Breakfast was not excellent either. The selection was limited, and the quality of the fruit was poor. I expected more considering other stays I have had. There was also a noticeable musty smell in the room, which I found off-putting.

0 Helpful

William from United Kingdom

Single

Deluxe Room

3 nights in October 2025

Reviewed:December 03, 2025

8.8/10

safari adventure base

helpful staffconvenient locationpoor soundproofing

i found the staff particularly helpful with arranging the safari and elephant transit home visit. the hotel offers useful facilities for a brief stay before or after exploring the national park. i was impressed by the convenient location for accessing the park.

i noticed the soundproofing in the rooms could be improved as noise easily carries. the terrace doors did not always close securely.

Service

9/10

staff members were attentive and provided assistance whenever needed. the kitchen staff prepared meals according to my preferences, guaranteeing a personalised dining experience. i appreciated their willingness to accommodate specific requests.

Location

10/10

the hotel's proximity to the national park is very convenient. it only takes a short drive to reach the park entrance from the hotel. this allows for easy access to safari tours.

Dining

8/10

the food options catered to various tastes and preferences. the restaurant offered a pleasant setting to enjoy meals. i found the dining experience satisfying.

Rooms

8/10

the rooms provided a comfortable environment for relaxation after safari excursions. i appreciated the cleanliness and functional design. the room size was adequate for my needs.

0 Helpful

Questions of the users

About Elephant Trail

What are the details of the Safari package? Are there any additional fees beyond the entrance ticket?

12 January 2025

The Safari package includes a 3-hour jeep safari, but the entrance fee to the park must be paid separately at the entrance.

Is an early morning safari available? What are the timings for your safari tours?

22 February 2025

Yes, an early morning safari starts at 6:00 am. An afternoon safari can also be arranged at 3:00 pm. Guests can choose between a 3-hour or a 6-hour safari experience.

At what time does breakfast begin at the hotel?

5 March 2025

Breakfast is served starting at 7:30 am, and arrangements can be made for an early breakfast if needed.

Are meals and accommodation for drivers provided, and is there an extra charge?

14 April 2025

Yes, accommodation for drivers is available, but meals will incur an additional charge alongside the cost of stay.

What is the distance from Elephant Trail to the gates of Udawalawe National Park?

9 May 2025

The National Park is approximately 2 kilometers away from the hotel, making for a quick access to the safari.

Can guests book a safari through Elephant Trail, and what are the pricing options?

16 June 2025

Booking a safari through the hotel is possible, and pricing is available based on the different safari packages offered.

Is there the option for an afternoon safari? How can one find out about package deals including accommodations and safaris?

25 July 2025

Afternoon safaris are offered at 3:00 pm. Guests can check the pricing details in the safari package information to find suitable options.

What other activities are available for guests wanting to experience the surroundings of Udawalawe?

3 August 2025

Guests can enjoy activities such as bird watching, bicycle rides, and wild safaris in the nearby Udawalawe National Park.

What types of cuisines does the hotel restaurant offer?

11 September 2025

The restaurant serves a variety of dishes, including fresh salads, flavorful main courses, and an array of wines, all designed to enhance the dining experience overlooking the pool.

Are there options for special dining experiences, such as BBQs or candlelight dinners?

22 October 2025

Yes, special dining experiences like BBQ dinners and romantic candlelight dinners can be arranged upon request.