Most visited national park
Yala National Park is the most visited and second largest national park in Sri Lanka, bordering the Indian Ocean. The park consists of five blocks, two of which are now open to the public, and also adjoining parks.
Yala has the world's highest density of leopards and is one of the best places on Earth to spot them in the wild. The park is also home to Sri Lankan elephants, sloth bears, crocodiles, water buffalo, and over 215 bird species including the painted stork and the Indian peafowl.
The landscape varies from dense jungle to open parkland, rocky outcrops, and beautiful coastal lagoons — making every jeep safari a unique adventure. Ancient Buddhist ruins found within the park add a fascinating historical dimension to the wildlife experience.
Key attraction
- Leopard spotting with one of the highest leopard densities in the world
- Jeep safaris through jungle, parkland, lagoons, and rocky terrain
- Wildlife encounters including elephants, sloth bears, crocodiles, buffalo, and birdlife
Highlights
- Set out on dawn or afternoon game drives
- Look for leopard, elephant and birdlife
- Stay close to the park for an easier start
- Balance safari time with south-coast rest
