During my travels through Sri Lanka, I had the opportunity to visit the Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home (ETH)—a heartwarming sanctuary dedicated to rehabilitating orphaned baby elephants. Located on the western border of Udawalawe National Park, this unique facility is more than just a shelter; it is a beacon of hope for Sri Lanka's gentle giants. My experience there was both educational and deeply moving, leaving me with a newfound respect for wildlife conservation efforts. A Sanctuary for Orphaned Elephants The Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home is a haven for baby elephants who have been abandoned or stranded in the wild. Learning…

Udawalawe National Park, one of Sri Lanka's most prominent wildlife sanctuaries, was an unforgettable experience. Nestled between the provinces of Uva and Sabaragamuwa, the park spans an impressive 30,821 hectares (119 sq mi). I was struck by its sheer size and the diverse habitats it encompasses, from grasslands to dense forests. As I ventured deeper into this pristine wilderness, it became clear why Udawalawe is a haven for wildlife, particularly elephants and water birds. A Glimpse of History The park was established on June 30, 1972, as part of the Udawalawe Reservoir Project. This initiative aimed to protect the catchment…