Yala National Park: Wildlife safari park
Description
Yala National Park is Sri Lanka’s second-largest and most visited wildlife reserve, covering approximately 979 square kilometers. Located in the southeastern region of the island, Yala is famous for its rich biodiversity, including the world’s highest density of leopards. The park features a diverse landscape of dry forests, grasslands, wetlands, and coastal lagoons, making it an ideal habitat for a variety of wildlife species.
Visitor Fee
- Foreign Adults: ~$15–25 (plus taxes and service charges)
- SAARC Nationals: ~$12–15
- Sri Lankan Citizens: LKR 60–120
- Children (under 6 years): Free
- Jeep Safari Charges: ~$40–100 per group (depends on duration and provider)
(Prices may vary; confirm with official sources before visiting.)
Transportation
- By Air: The nearest domestic airport is Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport (~80 km away).
- By Train: Trains run from Colombo to Matara or Tissamaharama, followed by a taxi/tuk-tuk ride.
- By Bus: Buses connect Colombo, Galle, and other cities to Tissamaharama, the closest town (~20 km away).
- By Car: Renting a private vehicle or hiring a driver is the most convenient option.
Things to Do
- Safari Game Drives – Spot leopards, elephants, crocodiles, and exotic birds.
- Birdwatching – Over 200 species, including flamingos and eagles.
- Visit Sithulpawwa Rock Temple – A historic Buddhist monastery inside the park.
- Explore the Coastal Area – Beautiful beaches where wildlife can sometimes be seen.
- Photography – Capture stunning landscapes and rare wildlife.
Why People Enjoy Coming Here
- One of the best places in the world to see leopards in the wild.
- Offers a thrilling safari experience with a high chance of spotting elephants, sloth bears, and crocodiles.
- A diverse ecosystem with stunning scenery, from dense forests to open plains and coastal lagoons.
- Ideal for birdwatchers, with many migratory and endemic bird species.
- A mix of wildlife and cultural heritage, including ancient temples.
Age of Yala National Park
The park was designated as a wildlife sanctuary in 1900 and declared a national park in 1938, making it over 85 years old.
List of Activities
- Morning and evening jeep safaris
- Birdwatching tours
- Camping in designated areas
- Visiting historical sites within the park
- Nature photography
- Beach exploration at Patanangala
Additional Nearby Attractions
- Bundala National Park – A Ramsar wetland site, great for birdwatching (~40 km away).
- Kataragama Temple – A significant pilgrimage site for Buddhists and Hindus (~30 km away).
- Tissamaharama – A historic town with ancient stupas and scenic lakes (~20 km away).
- Kirinda Beach – A peaceful coastal area with a small Buddhist shrine (~15 km away).
- Lunugamvehera National Park – Another wildlife-rich park connected to Yala (~30 km away).