Yala National Park - Discovering Sri Lanka

Travelling to Yala National Park

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Yala National Park, a pretty good destination in Sri Lanka (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Yala National Park and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Yala National Park, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Sri Lanka, here's everything to know about Yala National Park for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Yala National Park

Yala National Park is a popular wildlife safari destination located in the southern part of Sri Lanka. It is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including elephants, leopards, sloth bears, and several species of birds and reptiles. Yala National Park is spread over approximately 979 sq km and is divided into five blocks, with two open to tourists. The best time to visit Yala National Park is from February to June, as it is the dry season and animals are easier to spot. Safari tours are available throughout the year, and visitors are required to follow strict guidelines and regulations to ensure the safety of the animals and the park.

What to visit in Yala National Park

Yala National Park is a beautiful and popular tourist spot in Sri Lanka. Here are some of the most popular tourist attractions of Yala National Park: 1. Yala Block 1: This is the most visited area of Yala National Park. The block 1 is famous for its leopard population, spotted deer, elephants, and birdlife. Yala Block 1 is also home to the highest concentration of leopards in the world.
2. Kumana National Park: Also known as Yala East, Kumana National Park is a popular bird-watching hotspot and is home to rare and endangered bird species such as the Oriental Darter, Painted Stork, and Black-necked Stork.
3. Sithulpauwwa: An iconic Buddhist temple located within the park. The temple dates back to the ancient Sinhalese kingdom and is believed to have been established by King Kavantissa in the 2nd century BC.
4. Magul Maha Viharaya: A historic Buddhist temple situated on the border of Yala National Park, built by King Kavantissa in the 2nd century BC. The temple is believed to have been the venue for King Kavantissa's marriage to Princess Vihara Maha Devi.
5. Kataragama: A sacred pilgrimage town located near the park. It is one of the most important religious sites in Sri Lanka and draws thousands of devotees each year. It is believed to be a multi-faith shrine, and people from all religions come here to pray.
6. Patanangala Beach: A stunning and peaceful beach that is part of Yala National Park. The beach is known for its clear waters, white sands, and towering rock formations.
7. Yala Safari Camping: An adventurous way to experience Yala National Park. Many operators offer camping and safari packages, where visitors can spend the night in the park and enjoy a guided safari experience.
These are some of the major tourist attractions in Yala National Park, Sri Lanka.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Sri Lanka, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Yala National Park.

When to go on holiday to Yala National Park

The best time to visit Yala National Park in Sri Lanka is during the dry season, which is from February to June. During this time, you will have a higher chance of spotting the elusive leopards and other wildlife as they come out to drink from the remaining water sources in the park. The park is closed during September, and it is also closed for a month from August 1st for maintenance work. Therefore, It is best to plan your trip accordingly.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Yala National Park

To get to Yala National Park, Sri Lanka, you can take a taxi or rent a car from Colombo or other major cities in Sri Lanka. It is approximately a 6-hour drive from Colombo. Alternatively, you can also take a train or bus to the nearby town of Tissamaharama and then take a taxi or tuk-tuk to Yala National Park. There are also tour operators offering day trips or multi-day packages to the park from major cities in Sri Lanka.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Yala National Park, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Yala National Park

Here are some of the typical foods that you could find in and around Yala National Park in Sri Lanka with a short description for each of them: 1. Kottu Roti - This is a very popular street food in Sri Lanka made from chopped roti, vegetables, and a variety of spices. It is usually served hot and is a filling and hearty dish.
2. Pol Sambol - This is a coconut relish that is commonly served with rice and curry dishes. It is made with freshly grated coconut, red chili flakes, lime juice, and salt.
3. Seafood - Given that Yala is located on the coast, you can expect to find a lot of seafood options here. Some popular dishes include prawn curry, fish curry, and calamari.
4. Hoppers - This is a type of pancake made with rice flour, coconut milk, and spices. It is usually eaten as a breakfast dish and is served with a variety of toppings such as egg, onion, and chili.
5. Watalappan - This is a traditional Sri Lankan dessert that is made with coconut milk, jaggery, eggs, and spices. It is similar to a pudding and is typically served cold.
6. Kiribath - This is a rice dish that is cooked with coconut milk and served with a variety of curry dishes. It is considered a staple food in Sri Lanka and is often eaten for breakfast or during special occasions.
You can find general info about typical foods in Sri Lanka here.

Is Yala National Park an expensive destination for tourists?

Yala National Park in Sri Lanka can be considered a relatively expensive destination for tourists. The park entrance fee for foreigners is higher than for locals and there are additional costs for hiring a jeep and a guide to take you around the park. However, the experience of seeing wildlife in their natural habitat and exploring the beautiful landscapes in the park can be well worth the cost. It's recommended to book a safari tour ahead of time to ensure availability and to compare pricing from different providers.

Where to find accomodation in Yala National Park

The best areas to find accommodation for visiting Yala National Park in Sri Lanka are Tissamaharama, Kirinda, and Kataragama. These areas have a variety of accommodation options ranging from budget guesthouses to luxury hotels and resorts. Tissamaharama is the most popular choice as it is the closest town to the park entrance, and it also has a range of restaurants and shops. Kirinda and Kataragama are also good options as they are located close to the park and offer a tranquil setting away from the crowds of Tissamaharama.
You can check hotel prices at Yala National Park here:
Booking.com

Is Yala National Park a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Yala National Park in Sri Lanka is generally a safe place for tourists. However, as with any natural area, visitors should still take certain precautions to ensure their safety. It is important to follow the park's rules and guidelines, stay with a guide or ranger, and avoid walking outside designated areas. There have been some incidents of wildlife attacks in the park, so it is important to respect the animals and give them space to avoid any potential danger. Additionally, visitors should be aware of any potential political or social issues in the region and stay informed of any safety advisories issued by local authorities.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Sri Lanka here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Yala National Park.

What type of travelers will enjoy Yala National Park the most?

Yala National Park in Sri Lanka is a popular destination for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. The park is suitable for a wide range of travelers, including families, couples, and young people looking for adventure.
If you are interested in experiencing Sri Lanka's wildlife diversity, Yala National Park is the perfect place for you. Families with children will enjoy seeing elephants, leopards, deer, wild boars, and various types of bird species. Couples will find the park to be a romantic destination, with its scenic beauty and serene atmosphere. Young people looking for fun will enjoy a range of activities such as jeep safaris, camping, and hiking.
Overall, Yala National Park is a great destination for anyone who loves nature, wildlife, and outdoor adventures.

How to get around Yala National Park

The most common way to move around Yala National Park in Sri Lanka is by jeep safari. Yala National Park has a strict policy of not allowing private vehicles into the park, so travelers must book a jeep safari through a registered safari operator. These operators have jeeps that are specially designed for navigating through the park and have experienced drivers who are knowledgeable about the park's wildlife. The jeep safari is a great way to explore and experience the natural habitat of the park's wildlife, including elephants, leopards, bears, deer, and many bird species.

What to see around Yala National Park

Sure, here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Yala National Park: 1. Bundala National Park - Known for its aquatic birdlife, including the greater flamingo, it is about 1 hour away from Yala National Park.
2. Udawalawe National Park - An elephant sanctuary about 2 hours away from Yala National Park. You can see herds of elephants and other wildlife, such as leopards and water buffalo.
3. Katharagama - A pilgrimage site with several temples and religious sites. It is a 45-minute drive from Yala National Park.
4. Tissamaharama - A small town with historic Buddhist temples and ruins, as well as a lake that offers boat rides and bird watching. It is about 30 minutes away from Yala National Park.
5. Weerawila Lake - A scenic lake with beautiful surroundings and boat rides. It is a 30-minute drive from Yala National Park.
6. Kataragama Museum - A small museum that showcases the history and culture of the Kataragama area. It is a 45-minute drive from Yala National Park. I hope this helps!
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