Yala National Park Travel Guide
Facts and practical information
Yala National Park, located in the Moneragala region of Sri Lanka, is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers. Spanning an impressive 979 square kilometers, this national park offers a diverse range of landscapes, wildlife, and unforgettable experiences.
As you step into Yala National Park, you will find yourself surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty. The park is characterized by its vast grasslands, dense forests, and picturesque coastline. The diverse range of ecosystems within the park makes it an ideal habitat for a wide variety of wildlife species.
One of the major highlights of Yala National Park is its population of Sri Lankan leopards. Considered the highest density of leopards in the world, spotting these majestic creatures in their natural habitat is an experience like no other. The park is also home to a multitude of other wildlife species, including elephants, sloth bears, water buffaloes, crocodiles, and a rich variety of birdlife.
Embarking on a safari in Yala National Park is a thrilling adventure that allows you to get up close and personal with nature. Hop into a sturdy 4x4 vehicle and venture into the wilderness, guided by experienced park rangers. As you navigate through the park, keep your eyes peeled for the elusive leopards hiding amidst the trees or the playful elephants bathing in the waterholes.
Apart from its wildlife, Yala National Park also boasts rich historical and cultural significance. The park is home to several ancient archaeological sites, including the Sithulpawwa Rock Temple, which dates back to the 2nd century BC. Explore these ancient ruins and discover the stories they hold.
Nature enthusiasts will also appreciate the diverse range of flora and fauna found within Yala National Park. From towering trees to vibrant flowers, the park is a haven for botany enthusiasts and photographers alike.
Yala National Park Attractions - What to See and Explore
Yala National Park offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Sithulpawwa Rajamaha Viharaya, Lahugala Kitulana National Park, Lahugala Kota Vehera, Magul Maha Viharaya. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.
Yala National Park – popular in the area (distance from the center)
In the vicinity of Yala National Park, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Ruhunu Maha Kataragama Devalaya (Kataragama), Baker's Falls (Horton Plains), Tissamaharama Raja Maha Vihara (Tissamaharama).
Best Time To Visit Yala National Park
Learn when is the best time to travel to Yala National Park weather-wise and what to expect in each season.
Best Ways to Experience the Park
Wildlife
AnimalsSee what popular animal species you can meet in this location.
Hawksbill Turtle
The hawksbill sea turtle is a Critically Endangered sea turtle belonging to the family Cheloniidae. It is the only extant species in the genus Eretmochelys.
Reptiles
Leopard
The leopard is one of the five extant species in the genus Panthera, a member of the Felidae. It occurs in a wide range in sub-Saharan Africa, in small parts of Western and Central Asia, on...
Mammals
Olive Ridley
The olive ridley sea turtle, also known commonly as the Pacific ridley sea turtle, is a species of turtle in the family Cheloniidae. The species is the second smallest and most abundant of...
Reptiles
Fishing cat
The fishing cat is a medium-sized wild cat of South and Southeast Asia. Since 2016, it is listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List. Fishing cat populations are threatened by destruction of...
Mammals
Mugger crocodile
The mugger crocodile, also called marsh crocodile, broad-snouted crocodile and mugger, is a crocodilian native to freshwater habitats from southern Iran to the Indian subcontinent.
Reptiles
Moneragala