All destinationsSouthern Province · Safari · Birding · Photography
Yala National Park
Famous for leopard sightings and safari tours — also elephants, sloth bears and ancient ruins.
About Yala National Park
Yala National Park is the best place in the world to see wild leopards, plus elephants, sloth bears, crocodiles and hundreds of bird species. A dawn or late-afternoon jeep safari with an experienced tracker is the classic Sri Lankan wildlife experience.
Best time to visit
February to July (dry season) gives the best leopard sightings as foliage thins and animals gather at waterholes. The park closes briefly in September for regeneration.
Getting there
Most safaris start from Tissamaharama or the park gates, about 5 hours from Colombo. Many travellers combine Yala with the south coast (Mirissa, Galle) on a multi-day loop.
Things to do in Yala National Park
- Dawn jeep safari in search of leopards and elephants
- Visit the elephant gathering at nearby Udawalawe
- Stop at the ancient Sithulpawwa rock temple
- Continue to the southern beaches at Tangalle or Mirissa
