Yala is in the Southeastern part of Sri Lanka, and is one of the most popular destinations among locals and tourists alike when it comes to wildlife.

Anything you should know

Entry to the park is only permitted in a jeep or rented safari vehicle, and you must have a tracker present with you. The trackers will guide you through the jungle, and spot animals for you. 

The entire park is divided in to 5 blocks, 2 of which are open to the public. You can move between block 1 and 2 during your safari, but entrance in to the rest is not permitted.

While there are hotels in the surrounding area, you could also choose to stay inside the park in a bungalow for a more rustic experience.

There are a few campsites in the park, and some safaris provide you with the opportunity and the equipment to go camping.

What you’ll see

Yala is known for having the highest leopard density in the world, as well as the largest leopards. This is because there aren’t any other large cats to compete with. These creatures can be found lazing around on rocks during the day, or even by lakes. If you go during the mating season; you may even be able to see cubs. 

Yala is home to around 30 species of mammals besides leopards. It also has quite a lot of elephants, deer, buffaloes, and more. You may even be able to catch sight of a sloth bear; just remember to keep looking up at the trees during your safari. 

The park has over 100 species of birds, 7 of which are known to be endemic to Sri Lanka. Some of these birds are hornbills, Asian paradise flycatchers, barbets, chestnut headed bee eaters, orioles, orange breasted green pigeons, jungle fowls, and more. During the Northeast monsoon, birds like the yellow wattled lapwing, migrating waterfowl, great stone plover, and garganey visit the lagoons in Yala.

Besides the wildlife, Yala is also known for being one of the areas that were affected by the Boxing Day Tsunami that took place in 2004. Within the jungle is a strip of beach where you can get out of your vehicles and frolic in the sand. In this area you will see the remains of the Patanangala Bungalow, which was severely damaged during the tsunami. Next to it stand four metal structures representing the waves that towered over the bungalow, causing its demise.

Yala in its own way is a reminder of both life and death, and makes for a memorable journey through the wilderness.