Yala National Park
Sri Lanka's most famous wildlife sanctuary, home to leopards, elephants, and hundreds of bird species. Book the best Yala safaris from Kataragama - just 23 km away.
Park Overview
Yala National Park is Sri Lanka's most visited and second largest national park. Located in the southeast region of the country, it spans approximately 979 square kilometers (378 square miles) across the Southern and Uva Provinces.
The park is divided into five blocks, with Block I (Ruhuna National Park) being the most popular and accessible to visitors. Yala is renowned for having one of the highest leopard densities in the world, making it a premier destination for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers.
Biodiversity
Yala is home to 44 varieties of mammals and 215 bird species. Among its more famous residents are the Sri Lankan leopard, Sri Lankan elephant, and sloth bear. The diverse habitats within the park support a wide range of flora and fauna, making it a biodiversity hotspot.
Landscape
The park features a variety of ecosystems, including moist monsoon forests, dry monsoon forests, semi-deciduous forests, thorn forests, grasslands, fresh water and marine wetlands, and sandy beaches. This diversity of habitats contributes to the park's rich biodiversity.
Wildlife
Safari Experience
Photo Gallery
Visitor Information
Opening Hours
6:00 AM - 6:00 PM daily
Entry Fee
USD 15 per person + USD 30 per vehicle (foreigners)
Safari Cost
USD 50-100 for half-day safari (excluding park entrance fees)
Location
Travel Time
What to Bring
- • Binoculars for wildlife viewing
- • Camera with zoom lens
- • Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses)
- • Water and snacks
- • Light, neutral-colored clothing
Best Time to Visit
Early Morning
The 6:00 AM safari offers the best wildlife viewing opportunities as animals are most active during the cooler morning hours.
Dry Season (February-July)
The best time to visit is during the dry season when animals gather around water holes, making them easier to spot. The park's vegetation is also less dense during this period.
Weekdays
Visit on weekdays to avoid crowds, especially during peak tourist season (December-March).
Wildlife sightings are never guaranteed, but visiting during the recommended times will increase your chances of spotting Yala's diverse wildlife, including the elusive leopard.
Safari Packages
Half-Day Safari
4-hour safari with experienced guide, ideal for first-time visitors.
Full-Day Safari
8-hour safari with breakfast and lunch included, maximizing wildlife viewing opportunities.
Private Safari
Exclusive jeep with personal guide for a customized safari experience.
Nearby Attractions
Explore more fascinating destinations in the vicinity of Yala National Park.
Kataragama Temple
A sacred pilgrimage site revered by Buddhists, Hindus, Muslims, and indigenous Vedda people.
Learn MoreSithulpawwa Rock Temple
An ancient Buddhist monastery dating back to the 2nd century BC, offering panoramic views.
Learn MoreTissamaharama
An ancient capital city with a rich history dating back to the 3rd century BC, featuring ancient stupas and a beautiful lake.
Learn MoreExperience the Wild Beauty of Yala
Book your safari adventure and discover the incredible wildlife and landscapes of Sri Lanka's premier national park.