Just over 2 hours from Tekanda Lodge Udawalawe is a famous for its wild elephant herds. It is worth keeping in mind that if you have done the great safaris of south and east Africa then Sri Lanka can't really compete with the big game but the elephant and bird life are world class across the island. For those wanting to see Leopard - Yala National Park is the most reliable destination.

Cost for trip to Udawelwe  - allow approx. £70 a head including transport, entrance to the National Park, safari jeep tour, visit to elephant transit home at feeding time.  

Leave early in the morning to take a boat out from Mirissa (about 30 mins from Tekanda). While there are several species of Whale frequenting the Sri Lankan southern shores between November and April the most prized is the Blue Whale. No whale sighting is guaranteed but Dolpins are Turtles are also commonly seen.   http://rajaandthewhales.com (Cost approx LKR 20,000 per person)