Planning a safari in Sri Lanka? The Department of Wildlife Conservation’s official ePermit system lets you book online for six major parks: Horton Plains, Minneriya, Kaudulla, Udawalawe, Wilpattu, and Yala. This guide covers booking steps, best times to visit each park, and pro tips for foreign visitors.
Which Parks Support Online Booking?
Online booking currently works for a selected set of national parks (not all):
- Horton Plains National Park
- Minneriya National Park
- Kaudulla National Park
- Udawalawe National Park
- Wilpattu National Park
- Yala National Park
How to Book Your ePermit (Step-by-Step)
- Open the official portal: DWC Day-Visitor ePermit.
- Select your date and choose a park from the supported list.
- Enter all visitor details (include your driver/guide in the count).
- Add vehicle details (jeep/car and plate number if available).
- Complete online payment as prompted by the portal.
- Save/print the QR-coded permit (email/SMS confirmation may also be sent).
Check / Re-print Permit
Lost your email or need a hard copy?
Use the status tool with your reservation reference + passport/NIC/DL number.
At the Gate
- Have your QR permit ready (printed or offline PDF).
- Carry a valid passport/ID matching the booking.
- Follow park rules and ranger guidance at all times.
Best Time to Visit Each Park
Timing your safari makes a huge difference. Use this quick reference and click through to our in-depth park pages.
| Park | Best Time | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Horton Plains | Mid-Jan to Mar | Clearest skies & views at World’s End; cool, dry mornings reduce fog. |
| Minneriya | May to Sep | “The Gathering” of elephants at Minneriya Tank during the dry season. |
| Kaudulla | Aug to Dec | Elephant herds often shift from Minneriya; excellent birding around the tank. |
| Udawalawe | May to Sep | Dry months concentrate wildlife in open plains—reliable elephant sightings. |
| Yala | Feb to Jul | Dry season improves leopard visibility; tracks are drier and easier to access. |
| Wilpattu | Feb to Oct | Prime months for wildlife across the villu wetlands and forest clearings. |
Seasonality Overview (Draft Chart)
Dark blocks indicate peak months for each park. Use as a quick-glance planner.
Ticket Prices for Foreign Visitors
Here are the current entry permit prices for foreign visitors as per the Department of Wildlife Conservation (subject to change without notice).
| National Park | Adult (USD) | Child (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Yala | 25 | 15 |
| Udawalawe | 25 | 15 |
| Wilpattu | 25 | 15 |
| Minneriya | 25 | 15 |
| Kaudulla | 25 | 15 |
| Horton Plains | 25 | 15 |
Prices are approximate and may vary depending on exchange rates and official fee updates. Jeep hire and guide services are charged separately, and rates can vary depending on the national park and service provider.
Book Places to Stay Near National Parks
Find hotels, lodges, and safari camps near your chosen national park for a comfortable and convenient stay.
Pro Tips for Foreign Visitors
- Book early for peak months (Minneriya/Kaudulla elephant seasons; Yala leopard season).
- Include your driver/guide in the headcount when booking.
- Carry a printed copy or offline PDF of your QR permit (signal can be weak near gates).
- Go early morning or late afternoon for higher wildlife activity and softer light.
- Always follow official rules and respect wildlife—keep noise low and never feed animals.