Yala National Park

Hambantota District

🐆 Southern Province | Yala Safari, Leopards, Elephants & Wildlife

About Hambantota District

Hambantota District is home to Yala National Park, Sri Lanka's most visited national park and one of the best places in the world to see leopards in the wild. The district offers incredible wildlife safari experiences with diverse ecosystems including grasslands, scrub jungle, and coastal areas.

Beyond Yala, the district offers unique eco-tourism experiences like Hambegamuwa Banyan Camp for nature lovers. The park is home to elephants, sloth bears, crocodiles, and over 200 bird species.

Main Attractions

Yala National Park
🐆 Yala National Park

Leopard spotting, elephant watching, safaris

Wildlife Safari
🐘 Wildlife Safari

Elephants, sloth bears, crocodiles, deer

Bird Watching
🦅 Bird Watching

200+ bird species in diverse habitats

Hambegamuwa Banyan Camp
🏕️ Hambegamuwa Banyan Camp

Unique camping under banyan trees

Quick Info

  • ProvinceSouthern Province
  • Best Time for SafariFebruary to July (dry season)
  • How to Reach5-6 hours from Colombo
  • Safari Hours6 AM - 6:30 PM
  • Safari BookingBook through licensed operators
  • What to BringBinoculars, camera, sunscreen, neutral clothing

Attractions & Activities

🐆 Yala National Park

Leopard Safari

Yala has the highest leopard density in the world. Best chances early morning and late afternoon.

Must Do

Elephant Watching

Large herds of Asian elephants can be spotted throughout the park, especially near waterholes.

Wildlife

Sloth Bear Spotting

Endemic sloth bears can be seen, especially during fruiting season.

Wildlife

Bird Watching

Over 200 bird species including Sri Lankan junglefowl, painted storks, and eagles.

Bird Watching

Crocodile Viewing

Large crocodiles can be seen in waterholes and lagoons throughout the park.

Wildlife

Coastal Areas

Beautiful beaches within the park where sea turtles come to nest.

Nature

🏕️ Eco-Tourism

Hambegamuwa Banyan Camp

Unique camping experience under ancient banyan trees. Nature walks, stargazing, campfires.

Camping

Nature Walks

Guided nature walks to explore local flora and fauna.

Nature

Photography Safari

Specialized safari tours for wildlife photography enthusiasts.

Photography
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