Home to some of the island’s most majestic wild creatures, Yala National Park is a must-experience highlight for holidaymakers exploring the iconic Hindu temples and heritage sites in nearby Kataragama.
Timing the Safari
Although Yala is a captivating wildlife sanctuary for most months of the year, the dry season is often considered the best time to tour Sri Lanka’s second-largest national park. While safari excursions are accessible during the early morning hours and the late afternoons, travellers will find that game drives during the first half of the day provide better opportunities for sighting animals.
Reaching the Reserve
Travellers based at Mandara Rosen Kataragama or other resorts and hotels near Yala, Sri Lanka, can hop on a tuk-tuk or taxi and reach their desired destination in less than 15 minutes. Those who have booked safari tour packages online, however, can expect operators to pick them up from their hotel in Kataragama.
What to Expect
With one of the highest leopard densities in the world, Yala National Park is not only home to big cats and gentle giants. Providing a leafy refuge to more than 44 mammal varieties, the park consists of lush forests, wetlands, golden beaches and dry scrublands.
Don’t Miss the Winged Beauties
As one of the island’s Important Bird Areas, Yala National Park is also a birder’s paradise. Occupied by more than 215 species, Yala is also home to six bird varieties endemic to Sri Lanka.