Yala National Park
Explore the Untamed Beauty of Yala National Park
About Yala National Park
Yala National Park beckons you to immerse yourself in the untamed beauty of Sri Lanka's wilderness. This renowned national park offers a thrilling safari experience that brings you up close to a diverse range of wildlife in their natural habitat. From majestic elephants to elusive leopards, the park is a treasure trove of incredible encounters with nature.
Experience the allure of the wild within Yala National Park, an authentic jungle setting. Board a safari jeep and ride through the woodlands, encountering awe-inspiring creatures in their natural habitats. Witness playful elephants enjoying mud baths, elusive leopards camouflaged among tree canopies, and vibrantly hued birds adorning the scene like living rainbows. Cheeky monkeys gracefully swing through branches, while deer, wild boars, and perhaps even a tranquil crocodile by the water's edge complete the tableau. Embark on an extraordinary safari expedition where you assume the role of explorer, and the creatures take centre stage. Yala National Park extends its welcoming embrace, inviting you to enjoy this captivating realm of wildlife and nature.Location & Information
Everything you need to know about getting to and around Yala National Park.
Quick Facts
Province
Southern Province
Distance
144 km
Nearest major city
Galle (30 km)
Climate
Tropical (year-round visits)
Key Highlights of Yala National Park
High‑Density Leopard Sightings
- Yala hosts one of the **highest densities of Sri Lankan leopards**—especially in Block I.
- Sightings are most common during early morning and late afternoon safaris.
Elephant Herds & Wildlife Diversity
- Spot large herds of Sri Lankan elephants roaming grasslands and reservoirs.
- Also encounter sloth bears, water buffalo, spotted deer, wild boar, and jackals.
Rich Birdlife & Reptile Fauna
- Home to **215 bird species**, including endemic and migratory birds like black-necked stork.
- Reptiles abound—from mugger crocodiles to five species of endangered sea turtles along the coast.
Diverse Ecosystems & Scenic Landscapes
- Explore a mix of scrub, forest, grasslands, freshwater lakes, brackish lagoons, and sandy beaches.
Sithulpahuwa Monastic Ruins
- Optional visit to ancient Buddhist monastery at Sithulpahuwa with dagobas and rock inscriptions.
Expert‑Led 4×4 Jeep Safaris
- Enjoy morning, afternoon, or full‑day guided safaris in open 4×4 Jeeps.
Sunrise & Sunset Safari Magic
- Best wildlife activity occurs during dawn (6am) and dusk drives.
Luxury Safari‑Adjacent Stays
- Stay in safari lodges or eco-tents at park edge—some offer dune hikes, bush walks, spa, and local village visits.
Getting to and Around Yala National Park
By Train
Direct trains from Colombo (4 – 6 hours). Scenic but slower than road travel.
Book Train TicketsBy Taxi
Fastest and most comfortable (approx. 4 hours from Colombo). Ideal for flexible travel.
Book Train TicketsTravel Tips
- The southern coastal road can be busy during peak season – allow extra travel time
- Tuk-tuks are great for getting around Weligama and nearby beaches
- Download maps for offline use as mobile coverage can be spotty in some areas
Explore More Destinations
Embark on new adventures in Sri Lanka's most remarkable locations.
