Yala National Park Sri Lanka - A Complete Guide for Wildlife Enthusiasts
Located in the southeastern region of Sri Lanka, Yala National Park is one of the best places to observe wildlife in their natural habitat. Spanning over 978.8 square kilometres, Yala National Park is the country's second-largest national park and is home to a variety of wildlife, including elephants, leopards, sloth bears, crocodiles, and many species of birds. In this article, we will explore what makes Yala National Park such a popular tourist destination, how to get there, when to visit, where to stay, and what to do during your visit.
Location and Accessibility
Yala National Park is located approximately 300 km from Colombo, the capital city of Sri Lanka. There are several transportation options to get to Yala National Park from Colombo, including private taxis, buses, and trains.
Private Taxis:
Private taxis are the most convenient way to get to Yala National Park from Colombo. You can either hire a taxi from the airport or book one through a local travel agency. The journey takes around six hours, and the cost varies depending on the type of vehicle and the number of passengers.
Buses:
Buses are the most affordable way to get to Yala National Park from Colombo. You can take a bus from the Colombo Central Bus Station to Tissamaharama, which is the nearest town to the park. The journey takes around seven hours, and the cost is around 250-300 Sri Lankan rupees per person.
Trains:
Trains are another transportation option to get to Yala National Park from Colombo. You can take a train from Colombo Fort Station to Matara, which is the nearest train station to the park. From Matara, you can take a bus or a taxi to the park. The journey takes around seven to eight hours, and the cost varies depending on the type of train and the class of travel.
Accommodation Options
Yala National Park offers a variety of accommodation options for visitors, ranging from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxurious resorts.
When to Visit
The best time to visit Yala National Park is from February to July when the water levels are low, and the animals come out to drink water. During this period, you can expect to see a variety of wildlife, including leopards, elephants, crocodiles, and many species of birds.
Weather:
The weather in Yala National Park is generally hot and humid throughout the year. The temperature can range from 25°C to 35°C, and the humidity can be around 80-90%. The rainy season in the park is from September to November.
Peak Season:
The peak season in Yala National Park is from February to July, which coincides with the best time to visit. During this period, the park can get crowded, and you may need to book your safari tours and accommodation in advance.
Off-Season:
The off-season in Yala National Park is from August to January, which is also the rainy season. During this period, the park is less crowded, and you may be able to find good deals on accommodation and safari tours.
What to See and Do
Yala National Park offers a variety of activities and attractions for wildlife enthusiasts, nature lovers, and adventure seekers. Here are some of the top things to see and do in Yala National Park:
Safari Tours:
One of the best ways to explore Yala National Park is through a safari tour. You can either opt for a jeep safari or a walking safari, depending on your preference. During the safari tour, you can expect to see a variety of wildlife, including leopards, elephants, sloth bears, crocodiles, and many species of birds.
Bird Watching:
Yala National Park is home to over 215 species of birds, making it a paradise for birdwatchers. Some of the most commonly spotted birds in the park include painted storks, peafowls, eagles, and hornbills.
Beaches:
Yala National Park is also known for its beautiful beaches. Some of the top beaches in the area include Yala Beach, Kirinda Beach, and Patanangala Beach. These beaches offer a perfect retreat for those looking to relax and soak up the sun.
Hiking and Trekking:
Yala National Park also offers several hiking and trekking trails for adventure seekers. Some of the top hiking and trekking trails include the Mahogany Trail, the Rukwila Trail, and the Elephant Rock Trail. These trails offer stunning views of the park's landscapes and wildlife.
Yala National Park Sri Lanka is a must-visit destination for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers. The park offers a variety of activities and attractions, including safari tours, bird watching, beaches, and hiking trails. With its stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife, Yala National Park is sure to leave a lasting impression on anyone who visits. So, plan your visit today and experience the beauty of Yala National Park for yourself!
Being the most visited and second-largest national park on the island of Sri Lanka, Yala National Park is home to a myriad of wildlife species that completes the picturesque holiday destination offered by our Sri Lanka tour packages. As you step into the dense forests and vast grasslands teeming with the animal life of Yala, you find yourself becoming a part of nature. The safari experience at Yala is truly one of its kind, where you get to experience wildlife species on a personal yet thrilling level. We ensure to provide an experience that is sure to be memorable and rouse the adventurer in you. Yala hides many caves that contain centuries-old rock paintings, adding an air of mystery to the park. Are you an adventurer? Are you an explorer at heart? Then you should definitely visit Yala National Park on your next Sri Lanka trip!
- Wake up feeling the chill and misty weather
- Experience the lush hotel surrounding by a walk
- Have a cup of fresh Ceylon tea
- Enjoy a grand breakfast buffet at the hotel
- Proceed to Yala national park
- Witness wonderful wildlife moments on the 4 x 4 Jeep safari
- Get back to the luscious hotel and refresh
- Later, visit the world famous Kataragama Hindu temple
- BBQ dinner time in the hotel
- Enjoy a BBQ dinner under the starry sky by the jungle
- Accomodation: Cinnamon Wild Yala (4 Star Hotel)
- Meal Plan: Breakfast & Dinner
- Travel Time: Kandy to Yala National Park - 3 hour 30 min (approx.)
- Transfer Mode: Private Car (Air Conditioned)