Below are highly recommended boutique / small-scale safari stays for visiting Udawalawe National Park (short descriptions, why they’re good for safaris, and quick booking tips). I've cited current listings and local guides so you can check availability and exact rates.

Top boutique safari stays near Udawalawe

1. Mahoora Tented Safari Camp — Udawalawe

• Why: One of Sri Lanka’s best-known luxury mobile tent operators; comfortable ensuite tents, experienced naturalist guides and game drives organized close to the park boundary for good elephant and general-wildlife viewing. Great if you want an authentic safari-camp experience with high comfort. (BrandRadar.org)

2. River Glamping (by Gaga Bees / similar riverside glamping camps)

• Why: Glamping-style tents/cabanas on/near the Udawalawe river edge — boutique, intimate and scenic with en-suite facilities and easy access to the park. Good choice if you want a blend of comfort, design and proximity to nature. (Search listings under “river glamping Udawalawe” for current properties and reviews.) (refinedboutiquehotels.com)

3. Grand Udawalawe Safari Resort

• Why: A small resort option that combines resort comforts (pool, restaurant, organized safari desk) with short transfer time to the park gates — convenient for families or travelers who want comfort plus safari logistics handled for them. (refinedboutiquehotels.com)

4. Waraka Udawalawe / Boutique eco-retreats

• Why: Smaller boutique eco-retreats and lodges around Udawalawe (listed by local travel guides) focus on sustainable design, local food and guided wildlife activities — attractive if you prefer low-impact stays and personalized service. Search the local “Udawalawe boutique” listings for current single-villa or small-lodge options. (wandersrilanka.com)

5. Smaller mobile / private tented camps and eco‑lodges (local operators)

• Why: Several local operators run mobile or semi-permanent tented camps (small guest numbers, focussed guides) positioned on the park boundary; these often include all‑inclusive packages (tents, meals, morning & evening drives). Best for a true “safari camp” feel and good wildlife access. Confirm exact campsite location before booking. (BrandRadar.org)

Quick practical tips

• Book early for peak periods (December–March and local school holidays), especially for small boutique tents and mobile camps — they fill fast. (BrandRadar.org)
• Check inclusions carefully: many tented camps sell all‑inclusive packages (park fees, jeep drives, guide, meals) while some lodges charge separately for the jeep and park entrance. Confirm number of game drives included. (BrandRadar.org)
• Park distance & transfers: choose a property within 10–20 minutes of the park entrance if you want the earliest morning drives and best wildlife chances; if a camp is advertised “on the park edge” it usually means very short transfer times. (BrandRadar.org)
• Safari pricing: Udawalawe foreign adult park entrance and typical 4–5 hour jeep safaris are commonly listed on local guides; check current park fees and jeep rates (they vary and are updated by the authorities/operators). As a reference, local operator listings note typical foreign adult fee ranges—verify exact, current fees when you book. (udawalawenationalparksrilanka.com)
• Nights recommended: 2 nights is a good minimum (one full day of safaris plus arrival/departure flexibility); 3 nights if you want relaxed birding, photography or time for nearby attractions. (wandersrilanka.com)

Next steps / how I can help

• If you want, I can check availability and sample nightly rates for specific dates, compare two properties side-by-side (inclusions, cancellation policy, distance to park entrance), or pull up direct booking/contact pages for any of the properties above.