8. Kaudulla National Park

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   Kaudulla National Park
   IUCN category II (national park)
   A Sri Lanka Green Pigeon in Kaudulla National Park
   Kaudulla National Park
   Location	North Central province, Sri Lanka
   Nearest city	Polonnaruwa
   Coordinates	8°09′40″N 80°54′18″ECoordinates: 8°09′40″N 80°54′18″E
   Area	6,900 ha
   Established	April 01, 2002
   Visitors	10,000[1] (in 2005)
   Governing body	Department of Wildlife Conservation

   Kaudulla National Park is a national park on the island of Sri Lanka located 197 kilometres (122 mi) away from the largest city, Colombo. It was designated a national park on April 1, 2002 becoming the 15th such area on the island. In the 2004–2005 season more than 10,000 people visited the National Park, generating an income of Rs.100,000 from entrance fees.^[1] Along with Minneriya and Girithale BirdLife International have identified Kaudulla as an Important Bird Area.^[2]
   Historically Kaudulla was one of the 16 irrigation tanks built by King Mahasen.^[3] Following a period of abandonment it was reconstructed in 1959. It now attracts and supports a variety of plant and animal life, including large mammals, fish and reptiles.