Designated as a National Park in 1938, Yala is Sri Lanka’s most visited National Park and is situated in the dry semi-arid region off the southeastern coast of Sri Lanka, Yala is known for its biodiversity, with over 200 species of birds and over 40 species of mammals.
Consider yourself stepping into Leopard land when you come to Yala National Park, Sri Lanka’s oldest and inarguably most famous Park.
Dry, dusty and hot winds from an arid landscape of savannah grasslands, thorn and dry monsoon forests will make you wonder, if you truly are in a tropical country. But the Park is also home to saltwater wetlands, flaunting her biodiversity and membership of an impressive number of mammals, birds, reptiles and amphibians.
With a density of least one leopard per square kilometre, and the chances of spotting these formidable big cats enhanced with the trained eye of our guides; these elusive leopards greet the dawn and acknowledge the sun setting.
It is not an uncommon sight to see elephants, buffalo, sloth bears and even leopards crossing the road in front of you, giving you an opportunity to see these big mammals up close.
Yala is also home to a multitude of birds, including the Sri Lanka jungle fowl, peacocks, and endemic species such as Sri Lanka grey hornbill, crimson-fronted barbet and Sri Lanka wood pigeon. Watering holes also attract water birds such as herons and storks.
Among the smaller species of mammals in Yala are hares, foxes, wild boar, toque macaques, golden palm civets, red slender loris, and fishing cats. Take this Yala leopard safari – you will never forget it.
