Uda Walawe National Park is located in the boundary between Sabaragamuwa and Uva Province of Sri Lanka, bordering the Walawe river, Udawalawe Dam and reservoir. It is situated about 165 Km from Colombo and could be accessed from two fronts, via Pelmadulla/Embilipititya highway from the west and the Ella/Wellawaya highway on the east front and turn off from Tanamalwila. This region is believed to be home to several herds of about 250-300 wild elephants who are permanently resident. Other wild animals that are in fewer numbers include the Sloth bear, Sri Lankan Leopard, Rusty spotted cat, fishing cat, Mugger crocodiles, water buffaloes, Wild boar, Toque Macaque, tufted grey langurs etc. There are also 184 species of birds, of which 33 are migratory, water monitors and reptiles consisting of 30 species of snakes. Udawalawe elephant transit home is just another elephant orphanage built in 1995 to feed and cater to baby elephants abandoned by their parents or fallen in pits or ravines within the park. They are released into the park no sooner they are able to take care of themselves. It is one of the popular tourist destinations and the 3rd most visited national park in Sri Lanka.