# Yala National Park: Sri Lanka’s Wildlife Paradise
## Introduction
Yala National Park, Sri Lanka’s most visited wildlife sanctuary, combines monsoon forests, grasslands, marine wetlands, and sandy beaches. Famous for having the world’s highest density of leopards, the park offers an extraordinary safari experience showcasing Sri Lanka’s diverse wildlife.
## Best Time to Visit
– Peak Season: February to July
– Ideal Wildlife Viewing: June to September
– Park Closure: Usually September (varies yearly for maintenance)
– Best Safari Times: 6:00 AM – 9:00 AM and 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM
## Wildlife Highlights
### 1. Big Game
– Sri Lankan Leopards
– Asian Elephants
– Sloth Bears
– Wild Water Buffalo
– Crocodiles
### 2. Bird Species
– Over 215 bird species
– Endemic species
– Migrating waterfowl
– Peacocks
– Painted Storks
### 3. Other Wildlife
– Golden Palm Civets
– Toque Macaques
– Land Monitors
– Mugger Crocodiles
– Various Deer Species
## Park Blocks
### Block 1
– Most popular
– Highest leopard density
– Diverse landscapes
– Best infrastructure
– Highest wildlife concentration
### Block 2
– Less crowded
– Good for bird watching
– Archaeological sites
– Coastal areas
– Peaceful atmosphere
### Other Blocks (3, 4, 5)
– More remote
– Special permits required
– Pristine wilderness
– Less tourist traffic
– Unique ecosystems
## Safari Options
### Morning Safari
– Start time: 6:00 AM
– Duration: 3-4 hours
– Best for: Active wildlife
– Cooler temperatures
– Better photography
### Evening Safari
– Start time: 2:30 PM
– Duration: 3-4 hours
– Best for: Predator sightings
– Beautiful sunset views
– Different wildlife activity
## Accommodation Options
### Luxury
– Jetwing Yala
– Cinnamon Wild Yala
– Wild Coast Tented Lodge
– Leopard Trails
– Noel Rodrigo’s Leopard Safaris
### Mid-Range
– Yala Safari Game Lodge
– Laya Safari
– EKHO Safari Tissa
– Kithala Resort
– Yala Adventure
### Budget
– Various guesthouses in Tissa
– Camping options
– Homestays
– Basic hotels
## Practical Information
### Safari Booking
– Book through hotel
– Licensed tour operators
– Private guides
– National park office
– Online booking systems
### What to Bring
1. Camera equipment
2. Binoculars
3. Sun protection
4. Water bottle
5. Light jacket (morning safaris)
6. Insect repellent
7. Comfortable clothing
8. Snacks
### Photography Tips
– Long lens recommended (300mm+)
– Early morning light
– Stabilization equipment
– Fast memory cards
– Extra batteries
– Dust protection
## Getting There
### Transportation Options
– From Colombo: 5-6 hours drive
– From Galle: 4-5 hours drive
– From Arugam Bay: 2-3 hours drive
– Private transfers available
– Public buses to Tissa
## Nearby Attractions
### 1. Kataragama
– Sacred religious site
– Ancient temple
– Cultural experience
– Evening ceremonies
– 16km from park
### 2. Bundala National Park
– Bird sanctuary
– Less crowded
– Coastal wetlands
– Di
