Explore the Untamed Beauty of Yala National Park
Discover the wildlife wonders and breathtaking landscapes of Yala National Park, Sri Lanka's premier national park for nature lovers and adventurers.
Yala National Park, a jewel of Sri Lanka, beckons nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers with its stunning landscapes and diverse fauna. Spanning over 979 square kilometers, this national park is home to leopards, elephants, and countless bird species, making it an unmissable destination for any traveler seeking adventure and natural beauty.
A brief summary to Yala National Park
Local tips
- Book a guided safari tour in advance for the best experience and to ensure you have an expert guide.
- Visit during early morning or late afternoon for optimal wildlife viewing opportunities.
- Wear neutral-colored clothing to blend in with nature and avoid disturbing the animals.
- Don't forget your binoculars and camera to capture the stunning wildlife and landscapes.
- Stay hydrated and bring snacks, as the park can be quite remote and facilities are limited.
Getting There
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Car
From any location in Hambantota District, head towards the A2 highway. If you are in Hambantota town, simply follow the signs for the A2 road. Continue on the A2 for about 35 kilometers, passing through Tissamaharama. Once you reach the junction near Tissamaharama, take a left onto the road leading to Yala National Park. Follow the signs for Yala National Park and continue for about 14 kilometers until you reach the park entrance. Note that you may need to pay an entrance fee, typically around LKR 4,500 for foreign tourists.
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Public Transportation (Bus)
To reach Yala National Park by bus, head to the main bus station in Hambantota. Look for buses heading to Tissamaharama, which is the nearest town to the park. The bus journey will take approximately 1-1.5 hours. Once in Tissamaharama, you can either take a tuk-tuk or a local taxi to the Yala National Park entrance, which is about 14 kilometers away. Be prepared to pay for the tuk-tuk or taxi, which may cost around LKR 1,500-2,000. Additionally, entrance fees for the park will also apply.
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Taxi or Ride-Sharing Service
For a more direct and comfortable route, consider hiring a taxi or using a ride-sharing app if available. From anywhere in Hambantota, just provide the driver with the destination 'Yala National Park.' The drive will typically take around 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on traffic. The cost for a taxi ride may range from LKR 3,000 to LKR 4,000, not including the park entrance fee.
Discover more about Yala National Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Mahoora Tented Safari Camps - Yala
12.4 km
Discover the beauty of Yala National Park with Mahoora Tented Safari Camps, where luxury meets nature in an unforgettable glamping experience.
Big Game Camp Yala
12.4 km
Explore Yala National Park from the comfort of Big Game Camp Yala – a unique blend of wildlife adventure and cozy accommodations.
Leopard Safaris Yala
12.8 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
13.9 km
Discover the thrill of wildlife and luxury at Camp Leopard, the premier glamping experience in Yala National Park, Sri Lanka.
පුරාණ ගොඩනැගිල්ල | one Pillars Of Ancient Building(Yala NP)
14.0 km
Discover the enchanting Pillars of Ancient Building in Yala National Park, a mesmerizing historical landmark surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty.
Leopard Trails Yala
14.0 km
Discover the enchanting wilderness of Sri Lanka at Leopard Trails Yala, your gateway to thrilling safaris and serene lodge experiences.
Mahoora
14.5 km
Explore the captivating wildlife and scenic beauty of Mahoora National Park, a perfect getaway for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts in Sri Lanka.
Yala Safari Service Kataragama
17.2 km
Experience unparalleled wildlife adventures at Yala Safari Service in Kataragama, your gateway to exploring Sri Lanka's breathtaking national parks.
Yala cozy safari tours
18.3 km
Explore Yala National Park with Yala Cozy Safari Tours for an unforgettable wildlife adventure amidst stunning landscapes and diverse ecosystems.
Yala Safari Team / Jeep Safari in Yala National park
18.6 km
Experience the thrill of wildlife encounters in Yala National Park with Yala Safari Team, where adventure and nature come alive.
මගුල්මහා විහාරය | Magul Maha Viharaya
19.5 km
Explore the serene Magul Maha Viharaya, a historical Buddhist temple in Sri Lanka, amidst lush landscapes and rich cultural heritage.
Yala safari katagamuwa
20.3 km
Discover the breathtaking wildlife and diverse ecosystems of Yala Safari Katagamuwa, a top destination for adventure and nature lovers in Sri Lanka.
Yala Wild House
23.3 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
23.7 km
Experience the wonders of nature at Tribe Yala, your gateway to Yala National Park and unforgettable outdoor adventures.
Wild Trails Yala by suri
23.9 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 Sri Lanka
5.9 km
Discover the untamed beauty of Yala National Park, Sri Lanka, a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Akasha Chaithya Junction
8.7 km
Discover the tranquil beauty and spiritual essence of Akasha Chaithya Junction in Situlpawwa, a must-visit tourist attraction in Sri Lanka.
Situlpawwa wewa
8.8 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
8.8 km
Explore the serene beauty and spiritual heritage of Situlpawwa Galkudaya, a hidden gem among Sri Lanka's Buddhist temples.
සිතුල්පව්ව රජ මහා විහාරය / Sithulpawwa Rajamaha Viharaya
8.8 km
Explore the serene beauty and rich history of Sithulpawwa Rajamaha Viharaya, a must-visit Buddhist landmark in Sri Lanka's lush landscapes.
Stupa of Egoda Sithulpawwa
8.8 km
Discover the serene Stupa of Egoda Sithulpawwa, a beautiful Buddhist temple offering tranquility and insight into Sri Lanka's rich spiritual heritage.
අගිල් වල | Agil Wala | விரல்களில்
8.9 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty and cultural richness of Agil Wala in Kirinda, a true gem of Sri Lanka's coastline.
Situlpawwa upōsathagharaya - සිතුල්පවුව උපෝසථාගාරය
8.9 km
Experience the serene beauty and spiritual heritage of Situlpawwa upōsathagharaya, a captivating Buddhist temple in the heart of Sri Lanka.
Yala National Park - Katagamuwa Entrance
10.6 km
Discover the rich wildlife and breathtaking landscapes of Yala National Park, a premier destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers in Sri Lanka.
මැණික් ගඟ.
10.9 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and diverse wildlife of Yala National Park, a premier destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers in Sri Lanka.
Andunoruwa Wewa
11.7 km
Experience the serene beauty of Andunoruwa Wewa, a tranquil lake in Yala, perfect for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts seeking peace and beauty.
Yala Block II
12.4 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife of Yala Block II, a premier natural park in Sri Lanka, perfect for adventurers and nature lovers alike.
Sambudu Bodhiraja Temple
13.2 km
Discover tranquility and spiritual heritage at Sambudu Bodhiraja Temple in Kataragama, Sri Lanka, a must-visit for every traveler seeking peace.
Patanangala Beach
13.6 km
Discover the tranquility of Patanangala Beach, a hidden paradise on Sri Lanka's southern coast, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxation.
Yala Safari Camping
13.7 km
Discover the beauty of nature and wildlife at Yala Safari Camping, a unique camping experience in Sri Lanka's stunning national park.
Essential places to dine
Yala Wana Arana Resort
12.4 km
Discover Yala Wana Arana Resort - your perfect base for exploring Sri Lanka's majestic wildlife and breathtaking landscapes.
Wild Edge Restaurant & Cafe
17.4 km
Experience authentic flavors at Wild Edge Restaurant & Cafe in Kataragama - where every meal tells a story.
Uga Chena Huts
23.2 km
Discover luxury and wildlife harmony at Uga Chena Huts near Yala National Park – an eco-friendly paradise for nature lovers.
Hilton Yala Resort
24.3 km
Experience luxury amidst nature at Hilton Yala Resort - your gateway to adventure in Sri Lanka's breathtaking wildlife haven.
Yala Peace Cottages & Restaurant
24.8 km
Discover tranquility and local flavor at Yala Peace Cottages & Restaurant in Tissamaharama - your gateway to Sri Lanka's stunning wildlife.
Jetwing Yala
25.2 km
Discover unparalleled luxury amidst nature at Jetwing Yala – your gateway to Yala National Park's stunning wildlife.
Jetwing Safari Camp
25.2 km
Discover luxury amidst untamed wilderness at Jetwing Safari Camp - where comfort meets adventure in Yala's stunning landscapes.
Laya Safari
25.6 km
Discover unparalleled comfort and breathtaking wildlife experiences at Laya Safari Resort near Yala National Park.
LAKE SAFARI ECO HOME / HOME STAY & VILLAGE RESTAURANT
26.1 km
Discover tranquility at Lake Safari Eco Home - a perfect blend of nature and local cuisine in Mahasenpura.
The Flavors Restaurant
26.3 km
Discover the authentic taste of Sri Lanka at The Flavors Restaurant in Tissamaharama – where every dish tells a story.
Oak Ray Wild Yala
27.0 km
Experience nature's wonder at Oak Ray Wild Yala – your gateway to unforgettable wildlife adventures in Sri Lanka.
Green Hut Restaurant
27.6 km
Discover authentic Sri Lankan cuisine at Green Hut Restaurant in Tissamaharama – a culinary haven for food lovers.
Okin Reach Hotel & Restaurant
27.6 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
27.7 km
Experience authentic Sri Lankan flavors at Calorian Restaurant in Tissamaharama – where culinary tradition meets warm hospitality.
Refresh Seafood Restaurant
27.7 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
8.7 km
Experience the serene beauty of Elephant Lake Yala, a camping paradise amidst lush landscapes and abundant wildlife.
Mayura Trade Center & Phone Shop
16.3 km
Discover unique gifts, electronics, and accessories at Mayura Trade Center, your one-stop shop in Kataragama for an unforgettable shopping experience.
bumble bee
16.3 km
Explore Bumble Bee in Kataragama, the ultimate baby store offering a wide selection of high-quality products for your little ones.
Shashikala Lover
16.4 km
Discover a vibrant shopping experience at Shashikala Lover in Kataragama, where local culture meets modern retail bliss.
V Sisil
16.4 km
Discover V Sisil in Kataragama, your reliable gas shop for fueling adventures in Sri Lanka's spiritual heartland.
SD MART
16.4 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
16.4 km
Explore the vibrant flavors of Sri Lanka at Cargills Food City, a supermarket offering fresh produce and local specialties in Kataragama.
ටෙහාන් පූජා භාණ්ඩ
17.4 km
Discover the essence of Sri Lankan culture at the vibrant and welcoming ටෙහාන් පූජා භාණ්ඩ in Kataragama, where tradition meets craftsmanship.
Dinuda Sweets
18.0 km
Experience the sweetness of Kataragama at Dinuda Sweets, your go-to candy store for local and international treats.
අරඹගේ ස්ටෝරස්
18.0 km
Explore the authentic flavors of Sri Lanka at Arambage Stores, your go-to grocery destination for fresh local produce and delightful snacks.
Amashi Fancy palace 117
18.8 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
18.8 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
18.9 km
Discover the sweet side of Sella Kataragama at Lakjaya Ajantha Sweet House & Cool Spot, where local flavors meet delightful treats.
Tharindu toys & fancy
18.9 km
Discover a magical world of toys at Tharindu Toys & Fancy in Sella Kataragama, where imagination knows no bounds.
Muthumala Stores
20.0 km
Discover the local charm of Muthumala Stores, where fresh produce and authentic flavors await every visitor.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Yala Camping
3.1 km
Discover the beauty of Yala National Park at The Yala Camping, where adventure meets tranquility in a stunning natural setting.
Yala Wanapetha Rest
8.7 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
12.7 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
14.4 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
15.5 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
16.3 km
Discover Tessa, the vibrant bar in Kataragama where locals and tourists converge for unforgettable drinks and lively social experiences.
katharagamapiyasili
16.4 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.
Happy Kent Resaurant & Bar
27.2 km
Experience the best of Sri Lankan cuisine and vibrant nightlife at Happy Kent Restaurant & Bar in Tissamaharama.
Junction wel fanta
28.9 km
Explore the vibrant atmosphere of Junction Wel Fanta in Tissamaharama, where great drinks and local culture blend seamlessly.
Dinujaya wine stores
29.2 km
Explore the vibrant wine culture at Dinujaya Wine Stores, a delightful bar in Tissamaharama offering exquisite local wines and a warm atmosphere.
Bar
30.1 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
31.2 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
31.6 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Sri Lanka at Ranketha Restaurant & Bar, where local cuisine meets a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Dam Restaurant & Bar
31.9 km
Unwind at Dam Restaurant & Bar in Lunugamwehera with a delightful drink selection and vibrant atmosphere, perfect for any traveler.
Lahiru Indunil Magama,Tissamaharamaya.....
34.9 km
Discover the lively atmosphere and refreshing drinks at Lahiru Indunil Magama, a must-visit bar in Tissamaharamaya, Sri Lanka.
