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Yala National Park and Safari: Ultimate Guide

Yala National Park is a wildlife sanctuary in the southeastern region of Sri Lanka. The park is the second-largest national park in the country for the best Safari experience, spanning over 978.8 square kilometres. It is home to diverse flora and fauna, including Sri Lankan elephants, leopards, sloth bears, and over 200 bird species. The park was first established as a wildlife sanctuary in 1900 and was later declared a national park in 1938. This article will provide an ultimate guide to visiting Yala National Park and Safari. 

Flora and Fauna at Yala National Park 

It is considered one of the best places in the country for observing and photographing wildlife in its natural habitat. The park spans over 979 square kilometres and is home to many flora and fauna.

Flora: The vegetation in Yala National Park is characterized by dry monsoon forest, thorny scrub, and savannah grasslands. The park has over 215 species, including trees, shrubs, herbs, and grasses. The most common trees found in the park are Satin, Palu, Weera, Ehala, and Kumbuk.

Fauna: Yala National Park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including 44 species of mammals and 215 species of birds. The park is most famous for its large population of Sri Lankan leopards, considered the highest density of leopards in the world. Visitors to the park can also see Asian elephants, sloth bears, spotted deer, sambar deer, wild boar, water buffalo, and the elusive Sri Lankan leopard.

The park is also a bird watcher’s paradise, with over 215 species of birds recorded within its boundaries. The most common birds found in the park are the Sri Lanka Junglefowl, Sri Lanka Grey Hornbill, Black-capped Bulbul, Indian Peafowl, and the Greater Racket-tailed Drongo.

Visitors can explore the park on safari jeeps accompanied by experienced guides knowledgeable about the park’s wildlife and vegetation. The park has five zones, each offering a different wildlife experience. Visitors can also enjoy camping, bird watching, and nature walks in the park.

However, it’s important to note that many of the species in Yala National Park are endangered due to human-wildlife conflict and habitat destruction. Therefore, visitors should not disturb the wildlife or damage their habitats.

Expect to be seen five main animals at Yala National Park.

Leopards: Yala National Park is famous for its leopard population, and it’s one of the best places in the world to spot these elusive cats. The park has a high density of leopards; visitors can spot them during their safari tours. Leopards are most active during the early morning and late afternoon, making these times the best to go on a safari.

Elephants: Yala National Park is also home to many elephants, and visitors can see herds of them grazing in the park’s grasslands. The park has around 300 to 400 elephants; visitors can spot them during their safari tours. Elephants are most active during the early morning and late afternoon, making these times the best to go on a safari.

Sloth Bears: Yala National Park is among the few places visitors can see sloth bears. The park has a small population of these bears, and visitors can spot them during their safari tours. Sloth bears are most active during the early morning and late afternoon, making these times the best safari.

Water Buffalo: Water buffalo are commonly found in Yala National Park; visitors can see them grazing in the grasslands. The park has a large water buffalo population; visitors can spot them during their safari tours. Water buffalo are most active during the early morning and late afternoon, making these times the best to go on a safari.

Crocodiles: Yala National Park is home to two species of crocodiles: the mugger crocodile and the saltwater crocodile. Visitors can see these crocodiles basking in the sun near the park’s water bodies. The park has a large population of crocodiles, and visitors have a good chance of spotting them during their safari tours.

When to Visit Yala National Park

Yala National Park is a popular tourist destination in Sri Lanka that attracts visitors from all over the world. The park is open throughout the year, but the best time to visit depends on what you want to see and experience.

High Season (December to April): The high season is the best time to visit Yala National Park to spot leopards and other wildlife. During this time, the park’s vegetation is minimal, making it easier to spot animals. In addition, the temperature during this time is pleasant, ranging from 25°C to 30°C, making it comfortable for visitors to explore the park.
However, it’s essential to note that the high season is also the busiest time of the year, and the park can get crowded with tourists. Therefore, booking your accommodation and safari tours in advance is advisable to avoid any inconvenience.

Shoulder Season (May to July and September to November): The shoulder season is an excellent time to visit Yala National Park to avoid crowds and experience good wildlife sightings. During this time, the park’s vegetation is thicker, making it a little harder to spot animals. However, the park’s flora is also in full bloom during this time, making it a beautiful sight to behold.
The temperature during the shoulder season is slightly higher, ranging from 30°C to 35°C, but it’s still comfortable for visitors to explore the park. It’s also advisable to book your accommodation and safari tours in advance during this time.

Low Season (August): Due to the monsoon season, the low season is the least popular time to visit Yala National Park. In addition, the park is closed for most of August due to heavy rainfall, making it challenging to explore the park. However, the park’s flora is in full bloom during this time, making it a beautiful sight to behold.

The best time to visit Yala National Park depends on what you want to see and experience. If you wish to spot leopards and other wildlife, the high season is the best time to visit. If you want to avoid crowds and still experience good wildlife sightings, the shoulder season is an excellent time to visit. However, despite the heavy rainfall, the low season is the best time to see if you want to share the park’s full bloom.

Getting to Yala National Park

Yala National Park is one of Sri Lanka’s most famous national parks, known for its diverse range of wildlife, including leopards, elephants, and sloth bears. The park is situated in the country’s southeastern region and is easily accessible by various modes of transportation. This article will discuss the different ways of getting to Yala National Park.


By Air: The nearest airport to Yala National Park is the Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport, approximately 45 kilometres away. Several international airlines operate flights to the airport from various destinations, including Dubai, Doha, and Mumbai. In addition, you can hire a taxi or a car from the airport to the park.

By Train: Travelling from Colombo, you can take a train to Matara, the nearest city to Yala National Park. The train journey takes approximately six hours and offers beautiful views of Sri Lanka’s countryside. In addition, you can take a bus or a taxi from Matara to the park.

By Bus: Several buses operate from major cities in Sri Lanka to Tissamaharama, the nearest town to Yala National Park. From Tissamaharama, you can hire a taxi or a jeep to reach the park. The bus journey from Colombo to Tissamaharama takes approximately eight hours.

By Car: If you prefer a more comfortable and convenient mode of transportation, you can hire a car or a taxi to reach Yala National Park. Several car rental companies operate in Sri Lanka, and you can book a car in advance to avoid any last-minute hassle. The journey from Colombo to Yala National Park takes approximately five hours.

Once you reach the park, you can hire a jeep with a driver to explore the park’s various attractions. The entrance fee for foreigners is approximately $30 per person, which includes the cost of the jeep and the driver. You can also hire a private jeep for a more personalized experience, which costs around $50 to $70 for half a day.

Accommodation Options at Yala 

Yala National Park is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Sri Lanka, known for its diverse range of wildlife and natural beauty. Several accommodation options are available near the park, from luxury resorts to budget-friendly guesthouses. 

Cinnamon Wild Yala: Cinnamon Wild Yala is a luxury resort on the edge of Yala National Park. The resort offers comfortable accommodations, including treehouses, chalets, and bungalows. The resort’s facilities include a swimming pool, spa, restaurant, and bar. Cinnamon Wild Yala is the perfect place to stay for those looking for a luxurious experience. Book Now 

Jetwing Yala: Jetwing Yala is another luxury resort near Yala National Park. The resort offers comfortable accommodations, including deluxe rooms, suites, and villas. The resort’s facilities include a swimming pool, spa, restaurant, and bar. Jetwing Yala is the perfect place to stay for those looking for a luxurious experience. Book Now

Taru Villas – The Yala Lodge: Taru Villas -The Yala Lodge is a mid-range resort near Yala National Park. The resort offers comfortable accommodations, including chalets, villas, and deluxe rooms. The resort’s facilities include a swimming pool, restaurant, and bar. Taru Villas – The Yala Lodge is the perfect place to stay for comfortable accommodation at an affordable price. Book Now

Elephant Reach Hotel: Elephant Reach Hotel is a budget-friendly hotel located near Yala National Park. The hotel offers comfortable accommodations, including standard rooms and deluxe rooms. In addition, the hotel’s facilities include a swimming pool, restaurant, and bar. Elephant Reach Hotel is the perfect place to stay for those looking for affordable accommodation. Book Now

Camping: For those looking for a unique experience, camping is also an option at Yala National Park. Several camping sites are available near the park, offering a chance to sleep under the stars and experience the park’s wildlife up close.

Things to Do in Yala National Park and surrounding Areas

Yala National Park is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Sri Lanka, known for its diverse range of wildlife and natural beauty. In addition to wildlife safaris, there are several other things to do in and around Yala National Park.

Wildlife Safaris: Wildlife safaris are the main attraction of Yala National Park. Visitors can book a safari tour with a guide and explore the park’s grasslands, forests, and water bodies. The park has various animals, including leopards, elephants, sloth bears, water buffalo, crocodiles, and many more. Safari tours are available early morning and late afternoon, making it the best time to spot animals.

Visit Kataragama Temple: Kataragama Temple is a popular pilgrimage site for Buddhists, Hindus, and Muslims. The temple is located near Yala National Park and is dedicated to Lord Kataragama. Visitors can explore the temple’s beautiful architecture and learn about its cultural and religious significance.

Visit Sithulpawwa Temple: Sithulpawwa Temple is an ancient temple in Yala National Park’s outskirts. The temple dates back to the 2nd century BC and is known for its ancient rock inscriptions and beautiful architecture. Visitors can explore the temple’s ruins and learn about its historical significance.

Visit Yala Village: Yala Village is a small village near Yala National Park. The town is known for its handicrafts, including woodcarvings and woven products. Visitors can explore the village’s markets and purchase souvenirs to take back home.

Tissamaharama Temple: also known as Tissamaharama Raja Maha Vihara, is a Buddhist temple in the town of Tissamaharama in southern Sri Lanka. The temple is believed to have been built in the 2nd century BC by King Kavantissa, a prominent ruler of the region. It is one of the most important historical and religious sites in Sri Lanka. The temple is famous for its stupa, which is one of the largest stupas in Sri Lanka. The stupa, which is over 55 meters tall, is believed to contain relics of Lord Buddha.

Visit Bundala National Park: Bundala National Park is another famous national park near Yala National Park. The park is known for its birdwatching opportunities and is home to over 200 species of birds. In addition, visitors can explore the park’s wetlands and water bodies and spot various bird species. Explore Bundala 

Relax on the Beach: Yala National Park is located near the South coast of Sri Lanka, and visitors can relax on the beautiful beaches of Tangalle and Mirissa. The beaches are known for their soft sand, crystal-clear waters, and beautiful sunsets.

 

Suggested read: Wipattu National Parks & safari Guide 

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