Yala National Park
Sri Lanka · Southern Province
Description
Yala National Park (යාල) in southeastern Sri Lanka is one of the country’s best known protected areas and is particularly famous for its high density of Sri Lankan leopards. The diverse landscape of dry scrubland, open grasslands and forests is shaped by rock formations, lagoons, reservoirs and an extensive coastline along the Indian Ocean. Alongside leopards, Yala is home to elephants, sloth bears, crocodiles, water buffalo and a rich variety of birdlife. Block I offers good conditions for jeep safaris and impressive wildlife viewing. Historic sites such as the rock temple of Sithulpawwa reflect the region’s long cultural history. Yala combines exceptional wildlife with striking landscapes and ranks among Sri Lanka’s most significant safari destinations.
Length of stay
Recommended length of stay: 1 to 3 days (optimal 2 days)
Travel season
Best time to visit: February – June
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Highlights
- Yala National Park jeep safari
- Leopards of Yala
- Wild elephants of Yala
- Sloth bears of Yala
- Yala Block I (Palatupana)
- Kataragama pilgrimage town(Day trip)
- Crocodiles and wetland birds of Yala
- Birdlife of Yala
- Patangala Rock viewpoint
- Yala coastal beaches and sand dunes
- Sithulpawwa Rock Temple
- Magul Maha Viharaya ruins
- Kirinda Rajamaha Viharaya(Day trip)
Getting there
- Nearest airports:
- HRI