Yala National Park

About Yala National Park

Sri Lanka’s Yala National Park, which borders the Indian Ocean, is the second-largest and most popular national park. It is in Southern Province and Uva Province, and it is in the country’s southeast. The park is about 300 kilometers from Colombo and covers 979 square kilometers. There are five blocks in the park, two of which are currently open to the public, as well as adjacent parks.

The mythical Hindu anti-hero King Ravana is said to have established his kingdom here, with Ravana Kotte, which is now submerged in the sea, as its boundary. Numerous ancient civilizations have inhabited the Yala region. A large number of ancient, though disrepair tanks are the evidence of a rich hydraulic and agricultural civilization that dates back to the 5th century. During the Ruhuna Kingdom, the region’s agriculture thrived.

Bio-Diversity

The park’s most notable feature is its wide range of wild animals. It is essential for the protection of aquatic birds, Sri Lankan leopards, and elephants in the country.

The safari tours in Yala dedicate their staff to environmentally friendly adventures. The Safari takes you deep into the heart of the Yala wildlife in Sri Lanka. It is awe-inspiring to observe these beautiful animals wandering into the depths of nature.

Additionally, the birdlife is quite exquisite. You can see a wide variety of animals, including elephants, birds, leopards, and more, on safaris.

Within the park are Sithulpauwa and Magul Vihara, two significant Buddhist pilgrimage sites. Sithulpauwa, which was the home to 12,000 arahants, is situated within the parking area along with Magul Vihara, which was constructed in 1987, and Akasa Chaitiya, which was constructed in the 2nd century. 400,000 pilgrims annually visit Yala.

The Yala National Park was severely damaged by the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami, which also killed 250 people in its vicinity. Since 2009, when the park’s security situation improved, the number of visitors has increased.

Best Time To Visit Yala National Park

Even though it is regarded as a destination that can be visited at any time of the year. Many people believe that the best time to visit is during the dry season, which lasts from February to June. During this time, the water level is lower and animals come out into the open to find water. despite the fact that the park is closed for maintenance in September. Because April is celebrated as Tamil new year, a lot of families gather near Ayala’s beaches. Because temples are being decorated all around, this is the best time to visit.

The best safari times for spotting wildlife are from 6 a.m. to 9 a.m. and from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m.