- Home
- Wildlife & Nature
Wildlife & Nature
Yala National Park
Yala National Park, one Sri Lanka’s beloved wildlife sanctuary, holds a history as diverse as its ecosystems. It was a hunting ground for ancient kings and is now a conservation triumph. Roam its vast landscapes to witness the majestic Sri Lankan leopard, elephants, and an array of exotic species. The park’s varied ecosystems, from dense jungles to serene lakes, create an unparalleled safari experience.
The ancient Sithulpawwa Rock Temple within the park, adds a cultural touch to your wilderness exploration. Yala beckons, promising an unforgettable blend of history, biodiversity, and natural wonders.
Udawalawe National Park
Look into an enchanting journey to Udawalawe National Park, a haven of biodiversity and natural splendor in Sri Lanka. Brimming with captivating history and ecological importance, the park’s significance transcends time.
Once a crucial area for agricultural development, Udawalawe evolved into a vital conservation area, fostering an oasis for diverse wildlife. Traverse through lush landscapes and witness herds of majestic elephants, the park’s iconic residents. Udawalawa’s scenic reservoir, framed by picturesque vistas, adds to the allure. Immerse yourself in the unique blends of natural wonders, as the Park promises an unforgettable safari experience amid its rich tapestry of flora and fauna.
Wasgamuwa National Park
Wasgamuwa National Park, where nature’s symphony harmonizes with a rich historical legacy carved by the centuries. The park was once a royal reserve, evolving into a sanctuary for Sri Lanka’s diverse wildlife after being declared a safe haven to protect and provide refuge to displaced wild animals under the Mahaweli Development Project in 1984.
Amidst sprawling landscapes, encounter herds of gentle elephants, along Sri Lanka’s longest river; Mahaveli, Wasgamuwa’s serene atmosphere is home to Purple faced langur monkeys, wild boar, sambar and spotted deer, buffalo, rarely sighted leopards, sloth bears, coveted reptiles and birdlife. The park’s vital role in conservation and its lesser-explored charm make it a hidden gem for nature enthusiasts.
Sinharaja Forest Reserve
Wander with us into the biodiversity chronicle at Sinharaja Forest Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This ancient tropical rainforest, surviving untouched for centuries, is a shelter for diverse flora and fauna. As one of the last remaining virgin rainforests, it is home to more than 60% of the trees that are endemic and considered rare. Its wildlife, including birds, and over 50% of Sri Lanka’s endemic species of mammals and butterflies, as well as many kinds of insects, reptiles, rare amphibians are a testament to the island’s ecological wealth.
The reserve’s ecological importance is underscored by its role as a living laboratory for researchers. Immerse yourself in the lush green canopy and the symphony of nature, where every step reveals the secrets of this pristine ecosystem.
Kumana National Park
Journey through the wildlife odyssey at Kumana National Park, a coastal marvel in the southeast corner of Sri Lanka. The park hosts a remarkable array of migratory birds and abundance of native bird species, making it a bird watcher’s paradise. The serene ‘Kumana Villu’, a 200-hectare ornithologically rich, natural mangrove swamp lake that is nourished by the ‘Kumbukkan Oya’, adds to its splendor.
Explore the park’s verdant landscapes, encounter herds of elephants and leopards, and witness the mesmerizing spectacle of birdlife. Kumana National Park promises an immersive safari experience, where nature’s wonders unfold against a backdrop of historical resonance.
Wilpattu National Park
Wilpattu National Park, Sri Lanka’s largest and a UNESCO world heritage site was established in 1938. Located in the Northwest region about 30 km west of Anuradhapura, the Park spans across a landscape of 131 thousand hectares. As one of the country’s oldest parks, Wilpattu is most renowned for its thriving leopard population and considered one of the premier spots to observe these big cats in their natural habitat. An array of other wildlife including sloth bears, elephants, various deer species, buffalo, crocodiles, and diverse bird species can also be seen across the park’s dense forests, open grasslands, rivers, lakes, and scrublands.
Though closed from 1988-2003 due to civil war, Wilpattu reopened in 2003 and has since committed to restoring the wildlife and its habitats. Ancient Buddhist sites dating back to the 1st century BC are scattered throughout, and visitors could engage in activities including wildlife safaris, bird watching, and photography.
Bundala National Park
Bundala National Park is a wetland sanctuary located on the southeastern coast of Sri Lanka. Established in 1969, this 6,200-acre park is a crucial stopover for migratory birds along the East Asian-Australasian Flyway. More than 200 bird species have been documented here, including flamingos, ducks, and other waterfowl that seek refuge from harsh winters in Europe and Asia.
Bundala encompasses lagoons, marshes, scrubland, and tidal flats. Visitors have the opportunity to observe elephants, deer, crocodiles, and marine turtles. Activities available include birdwatching, camping, boating, and nature walks. The optimal time to visit is from August to March, during the migration season. Experienced guides are available to lead park tours and safaris.
Mannar Island
Mannar Island is a small island situated off the northwest coast of Sri Lanka, connected to the mainland by a causeway. It spans an area of approximately 50 square kilometers and is home to a population of over 30,000 people. This island boasts a diverse natural environment, particularly famous for its birdlife. Mannar serves as a temporary refuge for thousands of migratory birds, with more than 100 different species having been documented here. The island also supports a variety of other wildlife, including jackals, marsh crocodiles, and the elusive sea cow.
The local economy of Mannar revolves around fishing, salt production, pearl cultivation, and agriculture. Additionally, the island is dotted with numerous historical and religious sites, some of which have a history dating back over 2,000 years. Notable attractions include Hindu temples, mosques, churches, and majestic baobab trees.
Visitors to Mannar can engage in popular activities such as birdwatching, wildlife spotting, biking, and indulging in the island’s renowned shrimp curry. The best time to visit is from December to April.
Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage
Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage is a sanctuary for wild Asian elephants in central Sri Lanka. Established in 1975, the orphanage cares for and protects abandoned, injured, or orphaned elephants. It provides shelter, food, medical care, and breeding grounds for these majestic giants. Visitors can observe them in their everyday life, bathing and feeding, and also maybe help bathe baby elephants. There are over 80 elephants living at the orphanage, currently.
Pinnawala also focuses on scientific research and conservation efforts for elephants. They have successful breeding programs and have pioneered hand-rearing techniques for newborn elephant calves.The orphanage is one of Sri Lanka’s most popular attractions, offering visitors the opportunity to pet, feed, and learn about elephants while supporting their protection at Pinnawala. It provides an up-close elephant experience in their natural habitat.
