Yala National Park
It is Sri Lanka’s second largest national park, with an area of 150,937ha. The park is divided into 5 sections. Two of the five blocks are now open to the public. The park’s topography provides for a diverse species composition as well as good visibility. As a result, the park is quite popular.
Leopards, elephants, sloth bears, sambar, spotted dear, jackals, water buffaloes, crocodiles, and peacocks may all be found in Yala. There are 215 bird species documented in the park. The park contains the world’s largest concentration of leopards per square kilometer.
The greatest time to visit Yala is between February and July, when the park’s water levels are low and animals may move freely.
Additional information
Nearby Attractions
The most popular nearby attraction
- Bundala National Park
- Kataragaama Shrine
- Kirinda Beach
The relatively flat topography of the park is made up of dry thorny scrublands, marshes, and four brackish lagoons. It is home to elephants, a variety of endangered reptiles, estuarine crocodiles, and mugger crocodiles.
Every species of waterbird identified in Sri Lanka is thought to frequent Bundala National Park. Within the region, about 200 bird species have been identified.
Distance: 34 Km
It is one of the few sacred sites in Sri Lanka that is venerated by Buddhists, Hindus, Muslims, and the country’s indigenous people. It is a large complex that includes a Buddhist temple, a Hindu shrine, and a Mosque.
There is a river called Manik Ganga meaning the River of Gems due to the great concentration of gemstones in the early era. This river is a spiritual place where pilgrims bathe to cleanse themselves before entering the complex. Bathing in it, according to pilgrims, helps cure diseases.
Distance: 46 Km
It is a pristine white sandy beach with natural foliage that provides a calm retreat.
Kirinda’s reefs are home to two of Asia’s most well-known offshore lighthouses, which were established by the British in the 1870s on two rock formations. These historical lighthouses, known as the Great Basses Reef lighthouses, are still standing. The Great and Little Basses reefs provide some of the greatest snorkeling and diving in the country.
Distance: 12.5 Km
Accommodation
Accommodation (within 10km)
- Star Classified hotels- Yes
- International Chain Hotels- No
- Boutique Hotels- Yes
- Resorts- Yes
- Ayurvedic Hotels- No
- Inns/Guest Houses- Yes
- Hostels- Yes
- Homestays- Yes
- Eco Hotels- Yes
* You might still find preferred accommodation in nearby cities.
Distance
Distance from (estimate)
- CMB Airport- 286km (travel time: 3hrs 50min)
- Colombo City- 280km (travel time: 4hrs)
- Sigiriya Rock Fortress- 243km (travel time: 5hrs 30min)
- Anuradhapura Ancient City- 291km (travel time: 6hrs 20min)
- Polonnaruwa Ancient City- 217km (travel time: 4hrs 50min)
- Kandy City- 210km (travel time: 4hrs 50min)
- Galle Dutch Fort- 151km (travel time: 2hrs 20min)
* The time and distance are only given to give you an idea. There are stopovers between the two locations. The cities listed above are some of the most popular tourist attractions in Sri Lanka.
Best Time
Season
- February to August