Yala
Discover Sri Lanka
Explore Yala
Yala National Park is one of the most famous wildlife reserves in Sri Lanka. Covering a total area of 979 km², the park allows public access to about 141 km² of its original sanctuary. Yala was first established in 1894 as a game sanctuary and has since become a key destination for wildlife enthusiasts. The park features a variety of landscapes, including open parklands, dense jungle, sandy beaches, freshwater lakes and rivers, and scrublands dotted with large rocky outcrops. This diverse environment supports a wide range of wildlife, making Yala National Park one of the richest and most popular protected areas in Sri Lanka.
Activities & Points of Interest
Things to Do in Yala
Go on a jeep safari in Yala National Park (spot leopards, elephants, crocodiles, and more) – 6 pax jeep (60$) & (55$) PP
Join an early morning or late afternoon safari for the best chance to see wildlife
Visit Sithulpawwa Rock Temple – ancient monastery with cave shrines and panoramic views
Explore Magul Maha Viharaya – historic Buddhist temple ruins
Go birdwatching in Yala or nearby Bundala and Kumana National Parks
Relax at Kirinda Beach and visit the scenic Kirinda Temple
Walk around Tissa Wewa (Tissamaharama Lake) – peaceful setting with nature and birdlife
Visit the Tsunami Memorial near the Yala coastline
Take a dip in the Manik River Natural Pool (great stop near Buttala–Kataragama road)
Enjoy quiet beach walks near Yala in permitted zones
Stay in eco-lodges or wildlife camps in Yala’s buffer zone for a jungle experience
Take a day trip to Bundala National Park (birdlife) or Kataragama (sacred pilgrimage town)
Location Map
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