Explore the Wild Wonders of Yala National Park, Sri Lanka
Discover the untamed beauty of Yala National Park, Sri Lanka, a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Yala National Park is a stunning wildlife sanctuary in Sri Lanka, renowned for its diverse ecosystems, rich biodiversity, and breathtaking landscapes. This national park is a must-visit for tourists looking to immerse themselves in nature's beauty and observe exotic wildlife in their natural habitat.
A brief summary to Yala National Park Sri Lanka
- No81, sella road, කතරගම, 91400, LK
- +94712619387
- Visit website
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best chances of wildlife sightings.
- Bring binoculars and a camera with a zoom lens for capturing distant wildlife.
- Stay hydrated and bring snacks, as you may spend several hours on safari.
- Respect local wildlife and maintain a safe distance from animals.
- Consider hiring a local guide for a more informative experience.
Getting There
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Train
From Bentota Railway Station, take a train to the Matara Railway Station. The journey takes approximately 1 hour. Ensure to check the train schedule for the most convenient departure time. Once you arrive at Matara, exit the train station.
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Bus
At Matara, head to the nearby bus station and look for buses headed to Kataragama, which is the nearest town to Yala National Park. The bus ride will take about 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on traffic. Buses are frequent, so you should not have to wait long.
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Walking
Once you arrive in Kataragama, you can walk to the entrance of Yala National Park. The distance is approximately 2 kilometers (about a 25-minute walk). Follow the main road and look for signage indicating the direction to Yala National Park.
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Tuk-Tuk
Alternatively, from the Kataragama bus station, you can hire a tuk-tuk to take you directly to the entrance of Yala National Park. This will be a quicker option and should cost around 300-500 LKR, depending on your negotiation skills.
Discover more about Yala National Park Sri Lanka
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Mahoora Tented Safari Camps - Yala
11.0 km
Discover the beauty of Yala National Park with Mahoora Tented Safari Camps, where luxury meets nature in an unforgettable glamping experience.
Leopard Safaris Yala
11.0 km
Discover the untamed beauty of Yala National Park at Leopard Safaris Yala, where luxury meets wildlife adventure in Sri Lanka's premier nature preserve.
Big Game Camp Yala
11.1 km
Explore Yala National Park from the comfort of Big Game Camp Yala – a unique blend of wildlife adventure and cozy accommodations.
Camp Leopard - Yala Safari Glamping
11.8 km
Discover the thrill of wildlife and luxury at Camp Leopard, the premier glamping experience in Yala National Park, Sri Lanka.
Mahoora
11.9 km
Explore the captivating wildlife and scenic beauty of Mahoora National Park, a perfect getaway for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts in Sri Lanka.
Leopard Trails Yala
12.9 km
Discover the enchanting wilderness of Sri Lanka at Leopard Trails Yala, your gateway to thrilling safaris and serene lodge experiences.
Yala Safari Service Kataragama
13.9 km
Experience unparalleled wildlife adventures at Yala Safari Service in Kataragama, your gateway to exploring Sri Lanka's breathtaking national parks.
Yala Safari Team / Jeep Safari in Yala National park
14.9 km
Experience the thrill of wildlife encounters in Yala National Park with Yala Safari Team, where adventure and nature come alive.
Yala cozy safari tours
15.6 km
Explore Yala National Park with Yala Cozy Safari Tours for an unforgettable wildlife adventure amidst stunning landscapes and diverse ecosystems.
Yala safari katagamuwa
18.0 km
Discover the breathtaking wildlife and diverse ecosystems of Yala Safari Katagamuwa, a top destination for adventure and nature lovers in Sri Lanka.
පුරාණ ගොඩනැගිල්ල | one Pillars Of Ancient Building(Yala NP)
19.8 km
Discover the enchanting Pillars of Ancient Building in Yala National Park, a mesmerizing historical landmark surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty.
මගුල්මහා විහාරය | Magul Maha Viharaya
21.1 km
Explore the serene Magul Maha Viharaya, a historical Buddhist temple in Sri Lanka, amidst lush landscapes and rich cultural heritage.
Yala Wild House
24.5 km
Experience comfort and adventure at Yala Wild House, your perfect base for exploring Yala National Park's incredible wildlife and natural beauty.
Tribe Yala
24.5 km
Experience the wonders of nature at Tribe Yala, your gateway to Yala National Park and unforgettable outdoor adventures.
Wild Trails Yala by suri
24.9 km
Discover the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation at Wild Trails Yala, your gateway to the wonders of Yala National Park.
Unmissable attractions to see
Yala National Park
5.9 km
Discover the wild side of Sri Lanka at Yala National Park, home to leopards, elephants, and breathtaking landscapes.
Yala National Park - Katagamuwa Entrance
11.5 km
Discover the rich wildlife and breathtaking landscapes of Yala National Park, a premier destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers in Sri Lanka.
Sambudu Bodhiraja Temple
11.5 km
Discover tranquility and spiritual heritage at Sambudu Bodhiraja Temple in Kataragama, Sri Lanka, a must-visit for every traveler seeking peace.
Elephants crossing Yala
11.6 km
Explore the breathtaking sight of elephants crossing in Yala National Park, Sri Lanka's premier wildlife destination for unforgettable encounters.
Stupa of Egoda Sithulpawwa
11.9 km
Discover the serene Stupa of Egoda Sithulpawwa, a beautiful Buddhist temple offering tranquility and insight into Sri Lanka's rich spiritual heritage.
සිතුල්පව්ව රජ මහා විහාරය / Sithulpawwa Rajamaha Viharaya
11.9 km
Explore the serene beauty and rich history of Sithulpawwa Rajamaha Viharaya, a must-visit Buddhist landmark in Sri Lanka's lush landscapes.
Situlpawwa wewa
11.9 km
Discover the tranquility and rich heritage of Situlpawwa Wewa, a serene Buddhist temple in the heart of Sri Lanka's lush landscapes.
Situlpawwa upōsathagharaya - සිතුල්පවුව උපෝසථාගාරය
12.0 km
Experience the serene beauty and spiritual heritage of Situlpawwa upōsathagharaya, a captivating Buddhist temple in the heart of Sri Lanka.
Situlpawwa galkudaya
12.0 km
Explore the serene beauty and spiritual heritage of Situlpawwa Galkudaya, a hidden gem among Sri Lanka's Buddhist temples.
Onadi Yala Safari
12.8 km
Immerse yourself in the breathtaking wildlife and stunning landscapes of Onadi Yala Safari, a must-visit destination in Kataragama, Sri Lanka.
Kiri Vehera Temple
12.8 km
Discover the tranquil beauty and spiritual significance of Kiri Vehera Temple in the heart of Kataragama, a must-visit destination for travelers and pilgrims.
Kirivehera mawatha
12.9 km
Explore the spiritual tranquility of Kirivehera Mawatha, a sacred Buddhist temple in Kataragama, rich in culture, tradition, and serene beauty.
Kataragama Holy Sanctuaries
13.0 km
Explore the serene beauty and vibrant spirituality of Kataragama Holy Sanctuaries, a revered destination in Sri Lanka for all faiths.
Kataragama Temple
13.0 km
Discover the spiritual heart of Sri Lanka at Kataragama Temple, a serene Buddhist site rich in history and cultural significance.
Katharagama Maha Dewalaya
13.0 km
Explore the spiritual heart of Sri Lanka at Katharagama Maha Dewalaya, a vibrant Hindu temple steeped in tradition and cultural significance.
Essential places to dine
Yala Wana Arana Resort
11.2 km
Discover Yala Wana Arana Resort - your perfect base for exploring Sri Lanka's majestic wildlife and breathtaking landscapes.
Wild Edge Restaurant & Cafe
14.3 km
Experience authentic flavors at Wild Edge Restaurant & Cafe in Kataragama - where every meal tells a story.
Yala Peace Cottages & Restaurant
24.3 km
Discover tranquility and local flavor at Yala Peace Cottages & Restaurant in Tissamaharama - your gateway to Sri Lanka's stunning wildlife.
Uga Chena Huts
25.3 km
Discover luxury and wildlife harmony at Uga Chena Huts near Yala National Park – an eco-friendly paradise for nature lovers.
LAKE SAFARI ECO HOME / HOME STAY & VILLAGE RESTAURANT
25.4 km
Discover tranquility at Lake Safari Eco Home - a perfect blend of nature and local cuisine in Mahasenpura.
The Flavors Restaurant
25.5 km
Discover the authentic taste of Sri Lanka at The Flavors Restaurant in Tissamaharama – where every dish tells a story.
Hilton Yala Resort
26.2 km
Experience luxury amidst nature at Hilton Yala Resort - your gateway to adventure in Sri Lanka's breathtaking wildlife haven.
Oak Ray Wild Yala
26.2 km
Experience nature's wonder at Oak Ray Wild Yala – your gateway to unforgettable wildlife adventures in Sri Lanka.
Green Hut Restaurant
26.7 km
Discover authentic Sri Lankan cuisine at Green Hut Restaurant in Tissamaharama – a culinary haven for food lovers.
Okin Reach Hotel & Restaurant
26.8 km
Discover the serene ambiance and exquisite flavors at Okin Reach Hotel & Restaurant in Tissamaharama—your perfect retreat after exploring Yala National Park.
Calorian Restaurant
26.8 km
Experience authentic Sri Lankan flavors at Calorian Restaurant in Tissamaharama – where culinary tradition meets warm hospitality.
Refresh Seafood Restaurant
26.8 km
Experience authentic Sri Lankan seafood at Refresh Seafood Restaurant in Tissamaharama – where every bite tells a story.
Traditional Buffet Red Rice and Curry
26.8 km
Discover the authentic taste of Sri Lanka at Traditional Buffet Red Rice and Curry with its exquisite buffet offering traditional dishes.
New Cabana Restaurant
26.8 km
Experience authentic Sri Lankan flavors at New Cabana Restaurant in Tissamaharama - where every meal tells a story.
Jetwing Yala
27.0 km
Discover unparalleled luxury amidst nature at Jetwing Yala – your gateway to Yala National Park's stunning wildlife.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Elephant Lake Yala
12.1 km
Experience the serene beauty of Elephant Lake Yala, a camping paradise amidst lush landscapes and abundant wildlife.
Mayura Trade Center & Phone Shop
13.4 km
Discover unique gifts, electronics, and accessories at Mayura Trade Center, your one-stop shop in Kataragama for an unforgettable shopping experience.
bumble bee
13.4 km
Explore Bumble Bee in Kataragama, the ultimate baby store offering a wide selection of high-quality products for your little ones.
Cargills Food City (Express) - Kataragama
13.4 km
Explore the vibrant flavors of Sri Lanka at Cargills Food City, a supermarket offering fresh produce and local specialties in Kataragama.
SD MART
13.4 km
Experience the essence of Kataragama at SD MART, your go-to smart shop for unique local products and souvenirs.
Shashikala Lover
13.4 km
Discover a vibrant shopping experience at Shashikala Lover in Kataragama, where local culture meets modern retail bliss.
V Sisil
13.5 km
Discover V Sisil in Kataragama, your reliable gas shop for fueling adventures in Sri Lanka's spiritual heartland.
අරඹගේ ස්ටෝරස්
13.8 km
Explore the authentic flavors of Sri Lanka at Arambage Stores, your go-to grocery destination for fresh local produce and delightful snacks.
ටෙහාන් පූජා භාණ්ඩ
14.0 km
Discover the essence of Sri Lankan culture at the vibrant and welcoming ටෙහාන් පූජා භාණ්ඩ in Kataragama, where tradition meets craftsmanship.
Dinuda Sweets
14.4 km
Experience the sweetness of Kataragama at Dinuda Sweets, your go-to candy store for local and international treats.
Amashi Fancy palace 117
14.8 km
Explore Amashi Fancy Palace in Sella Kataragama, a vibrant toy store offering delightful gifts and souvenirs for all ages. A must-visit for families!
Sathsara Stores
14.8 km
Explore the vibrant local culture at Sathsara Stores, your go-to supermarket in Kataragama offering a wide range of fresh produce and local delicacies.
Lakjaya - (ලක්ජය) Ajantha Sweet House & Cool Spot
14.8 km
Discover the sweet side of Sella Kataragama at Lakjaya Ajantha Sweet House & Cool Spot, where local flavors meet delightful treats.
Tharindu toys & fancy
14.9 km
Discover a magical world of toys at Tharindu Toys & Fancy in Sella Kataragama, where imagination knows no bounds.
Vilasitha
17.8 km
Explore Vilasitha in Kataragama, where local fashion meets unique style in a charming clothing boutique.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Yala Camping
8.9 km
Discover the beauty of Yala National Park at The Yala Camping, where adventure meets tranquility in a stunning natural setting.
Sunils Safari Lodge
11.4 km
Discover the flavors of Sri Lanka at Sunils Safari Lodge, a charming restaurant in Kataragama, offering authentic dishes in a welcoming atmosphere.
Yala Wanapetha Rest
11.8 km
Discover the flavors of Sri Lanka at Yala Wanapetha Rest, where every meal is a journey through nature's beauty and culinary excellence.
Sunil Cool Spot
12.2 km
Experience the authentic flavors of Sri Lanka at Sunil Cool Spot, a cozy restaurant offering local dishes along the Kataragama-Situlpawwa Road.
Yala Safari In
13.0 km
Explore the vibrant wildlife and scenic landscapes of Sri Lanka at Yala Safari In, a premier destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Tessa
13.4 km
Discover Tessa, the vibrant bar in Kataragama where locals and tourists converge for unforgettable drinks and lively social experiences.
katharagamapiyasili
13.5 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Kataragama at Katharagamapiyasili, a bar where locals and visitors come together to enjoy great drinks and a friendly atmosphere.
Happy Kent Resaurant & Bar
26.4 km
Experience the best of Sri Lankan cuisine and vibrant nightlife at Happy Kent Restaurant & Bar in Tissamaharama.
Junction wel fanta
28.2 km
Explore the vibrant atmosphere of Junction Wel Fanta in Tissamaharama, where great drinks and local culture blend seamlessly.
Dinujaya wine stores
28.2 km
Explore the vibrant wine culture at Dinujaya Wine Stores, a delightful bar in Tissamaharama offering exquisite local wines and a warm atmosphere.
Dam Restaurant & Bar
28.8 km
Unwind at Dam Restaurant & Bar in Lunugamwehera with a delightful drink selection and vibrant atmosphere, perfect for any traveler.
Bar
28.9 km
Unwind in Debarawewa's charming bar, offering a delightful selection of drinks and a warm atmosphere perfect for relaxation and socializing.
Ranketha Restaurant & Bar
29.6 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Sri Lanka at Ranketha Restaurant & Bar, where local cuisine meets a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Sata’s House
30.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and local flavors at Sata’s House, a cozy bar in Debarawewa, perfect for unwinding and socializing.
Thanamalwila Wine Stores - තණමල්විල වයින් ස්ටෝර්ස්
33.3 km
Experience the serene ambiance and exquisite wines at Thanamalwila Wine Stores, a hidden gem in the heart of Sri Lanka's beautiful landscapes.
