Yala National Park

Sri Lanka’s most famous national park, the Yala National Park is rich in wildlife and you will get a chance to encounter elephants, crocodiles, buffaloes and monkeys. The gateway to Yala National Park is Tissamaharama. The best time for a Safari Tour in the park is during dawn and dusk. Being located in one of the arid regions of Sri Lanka, the climate of the National Park is usually hot and dry.

Wildlife at Yala National Park
Of all the National Parks in Sri Lanka, the Yala National Park offers the best opportunity to witness Sri Lanka’s amazing variety of wildlife. A total of 32 species of mammals have been recorded. The threatened species include sloth bear (Melursus ursinus), Leopard (Panthera pardus kotiya), elephant (Elephas maximus), water buffalo (Bubalus bubalis), Wild boar (Sus scrofa), spotted deer (Axis axis ceylonessis), sambar (Cervus unicolor) and golden jackal (Canis aureus).

Leopards at Yala National Park
Sri Lankan leopards are a distinct sub-species, and can be seen throughout the park. The best period for enjoying the sights of leopards is during January to July.

Elephants at Yala National Park
Nearby Lunugamvehera National Park serves as a corridor between Yala and Uda Walwe National Park. Home to a considerable population of elephants varying seasonally, the dry season of May to August is the best period to see elephants.

Birdlife at Yala National Park
Rich in birdlife, around 130 species of birds have been recorded here. Raptors include crested serpent eagle and white bellied sea eagle. Among the water birds attracted to the lagoons are Lesser Flamingo, Pelicon, Spoonbill, painted stork, rare black necked Stork, grey heron, purple heron, night heron and Darter.

Reptiles at Yala National Park
Notable reptiles at the park are Mugger Crocodile, which is abundant in the abandoned tanks, Estuarine Crocodile, found in the main rivers, and Common monitor. Other reptiles include Cobra and Russel’s Viper.