Explore the Wonders of Yala National Park
Discover the rich wildlife and breathtaking landscapes of Yala National Park, a premier destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers in Sri Lanka.
Yala National Park, renowned for its diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes, is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Located in Sri Lanka, it offers opportunities to witness majestic leopards, elephants, and a variety of bird species in their natural habitat. Spanning over 970 square kilometers, the park's rich biodiversity and scenic beauty make it a must-visit destination for tourists from around the globe.
A brief summary to Yala National Park - Katagamuwa Entrance
- Kataragama - Situlpawwa Road, LK
- Visit website
- Monday 6 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 6 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 6 am-6 pm
- Thursday 6 am-6 pm
- Friday 6 am-6 pm
- Saturday 6 am-6 pm
- Sunday 6 am-6 pm
Local tips
- Book a guided safari tour to enhance your wildlife experience and increase your chances of spotting elusive animals.
- Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for the best wildlife viewing opportunities.
- Bring binoculars and a camera with a good zoom lens to capture the incredible wildlife and scenic views.
- Stay hydrated and pack snacks, as facilities within the park are limited.
- Respect the wildlife by maintaining a safe distance and not feeding the animals.
Getting There
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Car
To reach Yala National Park - Katagamuwa Entrance from Bundala National Park by car, start by exiting the park and head northwest on the A2 road towards Tissamaharama. Continue on the A2 for approximately 15 kilometers. After you reach Tissamaharama, take the right turn onto the Kataragama - Situlpawwa Road (B12). Follow this road for about 20 kilometers until you arrive at the Katagamuwa Entrance of Yala National Park. Be mindful of road signs and speed limits as you drive through rural areas.
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Public Transport
If you prefer to use public transportation, you can take a local bus from Bundala National Park to Tissamaharama. Look for buses heading to Tissamaharama at the nearest bus stop. The bus journey may take approximately 30-45 minutes, depending on stops. Once in Tissamaharama, you will need to take a tuk-tuk or a taxi to the Katagamuwa Entrance. The tuk-tuk ride will cost around 1000 LKR and take about 20 minutes to reach the entrance.
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Taxi
For a more comfortable and direct option, consider hiring a taxi from Bundala National Park to Yala National Park - Katagamuwa Entrance. You can arrange a taxi through your hotel or local taxi services. The journey should take about 30 minutes, and you can expect to pay around 3000-4000 LKR for a one-way trip, depending on your negotiation and the time of day.
Discover more about Yala National Park - Katagamuwa Entrance
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Big Game Camp Yala
4.6 km
Explore Yala National Park from the comfort of Big Game Camp Yala – a unique blend of wildlife adventure and cozy accommodations.
Mahoora Tented Safari Camps - Yala
4.6 km
Discover the beauty of Yala National Park with Mahoora Tented Safari Camps, where luxury meets nature in an unforgettable glamping experience.
Leopard Trails Yala
5.0 km
Discover the enchanting wilderness of Sri Lanka at Leopard Trails Yala, your gateway to thrilling safaris and serene lodge experiences.
Leopard Safaris Yala
5.3 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.
Camp Leopard - Yala Safari Glamping
6.5 km
Discover the thrill of wildlife and luxury at Camp Leopard, the premier glamping experience in Yala National Park, Sri Lanka.
Mahoora
7.7 km
Explore the captivating wildlife and scenic beauty of Mahoora National Park, a perfect getaway for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts in Sri Lanka.
මගුල්මහා විහාරය | Magul Maha Viharaya
9.5 km
Explore the serene Magul Maha Viharaya, a historical Buddhist temple in Sri Lanka, amidst lush landscapes and rich cultural heritage.
Yala cozy safari tours
10.5 km
Explore Yala National Park with Yala Cozy Safari Tours for an unforgettable wildlife adventure amidst stunning landscapes and diverse ecosystems.
Yala Safari Service Kataragama
10.6 km
Experience unparalleled wildlife adventures at Yala Safari Service in Kataragama, your gateway to exploring Sri Lanka's breathtaking national parks.
Yala safari katagamuwa
11.6 km
Discover the breathtaking wildlife and diverse ecosystems of Yala Safari Katagamuwa, a top destination for adventure and nature lovers in Sri Lanka.
Yala Safari Team / Jeep Safari in Yala National park
12.5 km
Experience the thrill of wildlife encounters in Yala National Park with Yala Safari Team, where adventure and nature come alive.
Yala Wild House
13.0 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
13.3 km
Experience the wonders of nature at Tribe Yala, your gateway to Yala National Park and unforgettable outdoor adventures.
Wild Trails Yala by suri
13.6 km
Discover the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation at Wild Trails Yala, your gateway to the wonders of Yala National Park.
Yala Safari Holidays
14.1 km
Experience the wild beauty of Sri Lanka at Yala Safari Holidays Campground, your gateway to thrilling wildlife adventures and serene nature escapes.
Unmissable attractions to see
Yala national park
3.1 km
Discover the wonders of Yala National Park, a breathtaking wildlife sanctuary in Sri Lanka, rich in biodiversity and stunning landscapes.
Yala Safari Camping
3.6 km
Discover the beauty of nature and wildlife at Yala Safari Camping, a unique camping experience in Sri Lanka's stunning national park.
Stupa of Egoda Sithulpawwa
4.1 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
4.1 km
Explore the serene beauty and rich history of Sithulpawwa Rajamaha Viharaya, a must-visit Buddhist landmark in Sri Lanka's lush landscapes.
Situlpawwa upōsathagharaya - සිතුල්පවුව උපෝසථාගාරය
4.1 km
Experience the serene beauty and spiritual heritage of Situlpawwa upōsathagharaya, a captivating Buddhist temple in the heart of Sri Lanka.
Situlpawwa wewa
4.2 km
Discover the tranquility and rich heritage of Situlpawwa Wewa, a serene Buddhist temple in the heart of Sri Lanka's lush landscapes.
Situlpawwa galkudaya
4.4 km
Explore the serene beauty and spiritual heritage of Situlpawwa Galkudaya, a hidden gem among Sri Lanka's Buddhist temples.
Sambudu Bodhiraja Temple
5.4 km
Discover tranquility and spiritual heritage at Sambudu Bodhiraja Temple in Kataragama, Sri Lanka, a must-visit for every traveler seeking peace.
Yala Block I
7.7 km
Explore Yala Block I in Palatupana, a wildlife sanctuary teeming with diverse species and breathtaking landscapes in the heart of Sri Lanka's nature.
අගිල් වල | Agil Wala | விரல்களில்
8.1 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty and cultural richness of Agil Wala in Kirinda, a true gem of Sri Lanka's coastline.
Akasha Chaithya Junction
8.2 km
Discover the tranquil beauty and spiritual essence of Akasha Chaithya Junction in Situlpawwa, a must-visit tourist attraction in Sri Lanka.
Kataragama Peak
8.2 km
Explore the captivating beauty of Kataragama Peak, where adventure meets spirituality in the heart of Sri Lanka.
Onadi Yala Safari
8.3 km
Immerse yourself in the breathtaking wildlife and stunning landscapes of Onadi Yala Safari, a must-visit destination in Kataragama, Sri Lanka.
Kataragama Temple
8.8 km
Discover the spiritual heart of Sri Lanka at Kataragama Temple, a serene Buddhist site rich in history and cultural significance.
கதிர்காம கந்தன் ஆலயம் - Kathirgama Kanthan Aalayam
9.2 km
Experience the spiritual essence of Sri Lanka at Kathirgama Kanthan Aalayam, a stunning Hindu temple rich in culture and devotion.
Essential places to dine
Yala Wana Arana Resort
4.1 km
Discover Yala Wana Arana Resort - your perfect base for exploring Sri Lanka's majestic wildlife and breathtaking landscapes.
Wild Edge Restaurant & Cafe
10.4 km
Experience authentic flavors at Wild Edge Restaurant & Cafe in Kataragama - where every meal tells a story.
Uga Chena Huts
13.8 km
Discover luxury and wildlife harmony at Uga Chena Huts near Yala National Park – an eco-friendly paradise for nature lovers.
Yala Peace Cottages & Restaurant
14.3 km
Discover tranquility and local flavor at Yala Peace Cottages & Restaurant in Tissamaharama - your gateway to Sri Lanka's stunning wildlife.
Hilton Yala Resort
14.7 km
Experience luxury amidst nature at Hilton Yala Resort - your gateway to adventure in Sri Lanka's breathtaking wildlife haven.
Jetwing Yala
15.5 km
Discover unparalleled luxury amidst nature at Jetwing Yala – your gateway to Yala National Park's stunning wildlife.
Jetwing Safari Camp
15.5 km
Discover luxury amidst untamed wilderness at Jetwing Safari Camp - where comfort meets adventure in Yala's stunning landscapes.
LAKE SAFARI ECO HOME / HOME STAY & VILLAGE RESTAURANT
15.7 km
Discover tranquility at Lake Safari Eco Home - a perfect blend of nature and local cuisine in Mahasenpura.
Laya Safari
15.8 km
Discover unparalleled comfort and breathtaking wildlife experiences at Laya Safari Resort near Yala National Park.
The Flavors Restaurant
16.0 km
Discover the authentic taste of Sri Lanka at The Flavors Restaurant in Tissamaharama – where every dish tells a story.
Oak Ray Wild Yala
16.6 km
Experience nature's wonder at Oak Ray Wild Yala – your gateway to unforgettable wildlife adventures in Sri Lanka.
Green Hut Restaurant
17.2 km
Discover authentic Sri Lankan cuisine at Green Hut Restaurant in Tissamaharama – a culinary haven for food lovers.
Okin Reach Hotel & Restaurant
17.2 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
17.3 km
Experience authentic Sri Lankan flavors at Calorian Restaurant in Tissamaharama – where culinary tradition meets warm hospitality.
Refresh Seafood Restaurant
17.3 km
Experience authentic Sri Lankan seafood at Refresh Seafood Restaurant in Tissamaharama – where every bite tells a story.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Elephant Lake Yala
4.8 km
Experience the serene beauty of Elephant Lake Yala, a camping paradise amidst lush landscapes and abundant wildlife.
Mayura Trade Center & Phone Shop
9.3 km
Discover unique gifts, electronics, and accessories at Mayura Trade Center, your one-stop shop in Kataragama for an unforgettable shopping experience.
bumble bee
9.4 km
Explore Bumble Bee in Kataragama, the ultimate baby store offering a wide selection of high-quality products for your little ones.
V Sisil
9.4 km
Discover V Sisil in Kataragama, your reliable gas shop for fueling adventures in Sri Lanka's spiritual heartland.
Shashikala Lover
9.5 km
Discover a vibrant shopping experience at Shashikala Lover in Kataragama, where local culture meets modern retail bliss.
SD MART
9.5 km
Experience the essence of Kataragama at SD MART, your go-to smart shop for unique local products and souvenirs.
Cargills Food City (Express) - Kataragama
9.5 km
Explore the vibrant flavors of Sri Lanka at Cargills Food City, a supermarket offering fresh produce and local specialties in Kataragama.
Muthumala Stores
11.0 km
Discover the local charm of Muthumala Stores, where fresh produce and authentic flavors await every visitor.
ටෙහාන් පූජා භාණ්ඩ
11.1 km
Discover the essence of Sri Lankan culture at the vibrant and welcoming ටෙහාන් පූජා භාණ්ඩ in Kataragama, where tradition meets craftsmanship.
Dinuda Sweets
11.6 km
Experience the sweetness of Kataragama at Dinuda Sweets, your go-to candy store for local and international treats.
Vilasitha
11.8 km
Explore Vilasitha in Kataragama, where local fashion meets unique style in a charming clothing boutique.
අරඹගේ ස්ටෝරස්
13.0 km
Explore the authentic flavors of Sri Lanka at Arambage Stores, your go-to grocery destination for fresh local produce and delightful snacks.
Sathsara Stores
13.4 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
13.4 km
Discover the sweet side of Sella Kataragama at Lakjaya Ajantha Sweet House & Cool Spot, where local flavors meet delightful treats.
Amashi Fancy palace 117
13.4 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!
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Yala Wanapetha Rest
4.2 km
Discover the flavors of Sri Lanka at Yala Wanapetha Rest, where every meal is a journey through nature's beauty and culinary excellence.
Sunils Safari Lodge
4.5 km
Discover the flavors of Sri Lanka at Sunils Safari Lodge, a charming restaurant in Kataragama, offering authentic dishes in a welcoming atmosphere.
Sunil Cool Spot
6.9 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
8.3 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
9.4 km
Discover Tessa, the vibrant bar in Kataragama where locals and tourists converge for unforgettable drinks and lively social experiences.
katharagamapiyasili
9.4 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.
The Yala Camping
12.2 km
Discover the beauty of Yala National Park at The Yala Camping, where adventure meets tranquility in a stunning natural setting.
Happy Kent Resaurant & Bar
16.8 km
Experience the best of Sri Lankan cuisine and vibrant nightlife at Happy Kent Restaurant & Bar in Tissamaharama.
Junction wel fanta
18.5 km
Explore the vibrant atmosphere of Junction Wel Fanta in Tissamaharama, where great drinks and local culture blend seamlessly.
Dinujaya wine stores
18.8 km
Explore the vibrant wine culture at Dinujaya Wine Stores, a delightful bar in Tissamaharama offering exquisite local wines and a warm atmosphere.
Bar
19.9 km
Unwind in Debarawewa's charming bar, offering a delightful selection of drinks and a warm atmosphere perfect for relaxation and socializing.
Sata’s House
20.8 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and local flavors at Sata’s House, a cozy bar in Debarawewa, perfect for unwinding and socializing.
Ranketha Restaurant & Bar
21.9 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Sri Lanka at Ranketha Restaurant & Bar, where local cuisine meets a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Dam Restaurant & Bar
23.3 km
Unwind at Dam Restaurant & Bar in Lunugamwehera with a delightful drink selection and vibrant atmosphere, perfect for any traveler.
Lahiru Indunil Magama,Tissamaharamaya.....
24.4 km
Discover the lively atmosphere and refreshing drinks at Lahiru Indunil Magama, a must-visit bar in Tissamaharamaya, Sri Lanka.
