Popular Udawalawe National Park Push Land Prices Up

In the recent past  popularity of the Udawalawe National Park has become more popular among tourists. Currently it attracts thousands of local and international visitors.

Ten years back only 10 safari jeeps catered for visitors. Now the number has exceeded 350. The park is the third most visited national park in the country. Due to it’s popularity  livelihood of the locals has started to improve.However, residents of the area have concerns about their livelihood due to illegal practices.   Fishing is allowed in Udawalawe Reservoir and hunters use this as a cover-up to continue their activities. Locals are concerned about the situation as their livelihood depends on the wild animals.

Price of land surrounding 7th mile post neighboring Walawe River has risen up due to the increasing popularity of the Udawalawe National Park among tourists. Currently it attracts thousands of local and international visitors.