Minneriya National Park: Elephant gathering site

Description

Minneriya National Park is a biodiversity hotspot in north-central Sri Lanka, known for its large elephant gatherings, scenic landscapes, and diverse wildlife. Centered around the Minneriya Tank, an ancient reservoir built by King Mahasen in the 3rd century CE, the park attracts hundreds of elephants during the dry season, making it one of the best wildlife viewing destinations in Asia.

Visitor Fee

• Foreigners: ~$15 per adult
• Sri Lankan Citizens: Lower rates apply
• Additional fees: Jeep hire (~$40–50 per safari)

Transportation

• By Car/Taxi:
  • From Colombo (~4.5 hours, 180 km)
  • From Kandy (~2.5 hours, 130 km)
  • From Sigiriya (~30 min, 20 km)
• By Train & Bus:
  • Train to Habarana or Polonnaruwa, then a taxi/tuk-tuk.

Things to Do

1. Wildlife Safari – Take a jeep safari to see elephants, leopards, deer, and bird species.
2. The Great Elephant Gathering – Visit from July to October to witness 300+ elephants near the reservoir.
3. Birdwatching – Spot pelicans, painted storks, and endemic birds.
4. Photography – Capture the golden sunsets, lush greenery, and wildlife.
5. Visit Minneriya Tank – Learn about this ancient irrigation marvel.

Why People Enjoy Coming Here

• One of the best places in the world for elephant watching.
• Rich biodiversity with leopards, crocodiles, and exotic birds.
• Scenic landscapes featuring open grasslands, wetlands, and forests.
• Less crowded than Yala National Park, offering a more serene safari experience.

How Old is This Place?

• Established as a National Park in 1997.
• The Minneriya Tank dates back to ~1700 years ago (3rd century CE).

List of Activities

• Jeep Safari
• Birdwatching
• Photography
• Nature Walks (near the park’s buffer zones)

Additional Nearby Attractions

1. Kaudulla National Park – Another great place for elephant safaris.
2. Hurulu Eco Park – A nature reserve with similar wildlife.
3. Sigiriya Rock Fortress – A UNESCO-listed ancient rock citadel (~30 min away).
4. Polonnaruwa – The ruins of Sri Lanka’s ancient capital (~45 min away).