Yala

Yala is Sri Lanka’s most popular and the most biodiversity-rich national park. It extends to the southeast coast and thus forms the perfect mixture of wetland, jungle, and coastal wildlife. The main feature of Yala National Park is its high-density leopard population, one of the highest in the world. You can easily catch sights of the elephant, water buffalo, sambar deer, peacock, and crocodile on a Yala safari. Yala and its satellite parks extend to some of the most significant historical and archeological sites in southern Sri Lanka. Evidence of past civilizations is found here, including 5th Century irrigation reservoirs and 2nd Century stupas.

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Hidden Gems

Kebiliththa is a sacred area in Yala Block 4, known to be God Kataragama’s residing place.
The Great and Little Basses Reefs in Kirinda beach host some of the best snorkelling.
Kumana National Park has large flocks of migratory waterfowl and wading birds.
Tissa Wewa in Tissamaharama is an artificial reservoir built in the 3rd Century BC.
Kirinda Temple is a hilltop Buddhist shrine dedicated to Queen Viharamahadevi.

Best Times to Visit

February to June is Yala’s dry season and has the most reliable wildlife sightings.

Weather

YALA WEATHER

Top Attractions

Yala National Park

It is the largest and oldest of a chain of six national parks and three sanctuaries. There are 44 mammal species, 215 bird species, and dozens of reptiles.

Bundala National Park

It harbours around 197 species of migratory waterbird species and stretches 20km along the west coast of Yala. Greater flamingos are its main highlight.

Sithulpawwa

This 2nd Century monastery atop a rocky outcrop is said to have built by King Kavantissa. It features ancient paintings and ruins of stone Buddha images.

Buduruwagala

These seven rock-cut Buddha figures date back to the 10th Century and belong to the Mahayana tradition. It also has a mysterious mustard oil lamp.

Kataragama

It is one of the most sacred multi-religious pilgrim sites in the country, with a shrine dedicated to a deity of both Buddhist and Hindu origins.

Okanda Devalaya

Considered to be the official entrance to Kumana National Park, legend has it as the place God Murugan first sailed into Sri Lanka in a golden boat.

Where to Shop in Yala

Yala is primarily a wilderness area, and most shopping is limited to in-hotel shops. You can buy handicrafts and traditional items in the surrounding towns.

Where to Eat in Yala

Yala hotels, which also provide luxury accommodation, offer a range of dining experiences. The Restaurant, The Chill, The Orchid, and Chef Lady Restaurant are places to dine out.

Top Accommodations

Explore where you enjoy a comfortable stay during your explorations.

Saraii Village

Saraii Village believes that travel is not just about seeing the new, but about feeling and breathing in a rustic experience that touches your soul. As one of the most eco-conscious hotels in Sri Lanka, we invite the conscientious traveler seeking something off the beaten path, and encourage our visitors to embrace the Saraii philosophy of respecting the serene environment that surrounds them.

Koragaha Lodge

Koragaha Lodge Yala is a boutique hotel and nature retreat that is unlike any other. Located in Sri Lanka’s deep south and a stone’s throw away from the Yala National Park, Koragaha marries a luxurious travel experience with the world-class hospitality that Sri Lanka is famous for. Come visit Koragaha to rejuvenate, recharge, and gain a newfound appreciation for the beauty of Mother Nature.

Kele Resort Yala

Kele is tucked away deep in the Dry Zone, situated just 15 minutes away from the Katagamuwa Entrance of Yala National Park, in South East Sri Lanka. Our chalets have been built on stilts to provide you with a panoramic view of the surrounding wilderness whilst ensuring safety at all times during your stay.