Discover the Wild Wonders of Yala National Park
Explore the breathtaking wildlife and stunning landscapes of Yala National Park, a premier destination for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers in Sri Lanka.
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
Yala National Park, one of Sri Lanka's most iconic national parks, is a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers. Spanning approximately 979 square kilometers, the park is famously home to a rich diversity of flora and fauna, including the elusive Sri Lankan leopard, Asian elephants, and a plethora of bird species. The varying landscapes—from dry scrublands to lush forests and coastal lagoons—create an extraordinary backdrop for wildlife viewing. Visitors can embark on thrilling jeep safaris, which are the best way to explore the park and spot its inhabitants in their natural habitat. The park is divided into several blocks, with Block 1 being the most popular for visitors, offering a more concentrated wildlife experience. The early morning and late afternoon hours are the prime times to see animals as they are most active during these cooler parts of the day. Birdwatchers will also find Yala particularly rewarding, with over 200 species recorded, including migratory birds that visit during different seasons. In addition to its wildlife, Yala National Park boasts breathtaking landscapes and a rich cultural history. The nearby ancient sites and traditional villages add an enriching layer to the experience, allowing visitors to connect with the local culture. To enhance their visit, tourists should prepare for a day filled with exploration, respect the park's rules, and carry sufficient supplies like water and snacks. Yala National Park is a remarkable destination that offers both adventure and a deep appreciation for the natural world.
Local tips
- Book your safari in advance to secure the best time slots, especially during peak tourist season.
- Bring binoculars and a good camera to capture the incredible wildlife and scenery.
- Dress in neutral colors to blend in with the surroundings and avoid startling the animals.
- Consider hiring a local guide for deeper insights into the wildlife and ecosystems of the park.
- Plan your visit for the morning or late afternoon for the best chances of wildlife sightings.
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving from Ella, take the A23 road towards Wellawaya, then turn onto the A4 road towards Kataragama. Continue on the A4 until you reach the sign for Yala National Park - Katagamuwa Entrance, located on the Kataragama - Situlpawwa Road. Follow the signs until you reach the entrance. Make sure to have cash on hand for the entrance fee, which is approximately LKR 4,000 for foreigners and LKR 1,000 for Sri Lankans.
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Public Transportation
From Ella, take a bus to Wellawaya (buses are frequent and take about 30 minutes). At Wellawaya, transfer to a bus heading towards Kataragama. Once you arrive in Kataragama, you can either take a tuk-tuk or a local bus towards the Yala National Park - Katagamuwa Entrance. The tuk-tuk will cost around LKR 1,500 to 2,000 for the short ride. Ensure to confirm with the driver that they will take you to the park entrance.
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Taxi
For a more comfortable and direct route, consider hiring a taxi from any major town in Uva Province, such as Bandarawela or Wellawaya. Make sure to negotiate the fare beforehand, which can range from LKR 3,000 to LKR 5,000 depending on the distance and your starting point. The taxi will take you straight to the Yala National Park - Katagamuwa Entrance, saving you the hassle of transfers.
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Tour Packages
Many travel agencies in the Uva Province offer guided tours to Yala National Park, including transportation from your accommodation to the park entrance. This option often includes additional services like a safari guide and entrance fees, which can range from LKR 7,000 to LKR 15,000 per person, depending on the package.
Attractions Nearby to Yala National Park - Katagamuwa Entrance
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Yala national park
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Yala Safari Camping
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Stupa of Egoda Sithulpawwa
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සිතුල්පව්ව රජ මහා විහාරය / Sithulpawwa Rajamaha Viharaya
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Situlpawwa upōsathagharaya - සිතුල්පවුව උපෝසථාගාරය
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Situlpawwa wewa
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Situlpawwa galkudaya
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Sambudu Bodhiraja Temple
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Yala Block I
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අගිල් වල | Agil Wala | விரல்களில்
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Akasha Chaithya Junction
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Kataragama Peak
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Onadi Yala Safari
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Kataragama Temple
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கதிர்காம கந்தன் ஆலயம் - Kathirgama Kanthan Aalayam
Landmarks nearby to Yala National Park - Katagamuwa Entrance
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Big Game Camp Yala
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Mahoora Tented Safari Camps - Yala
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Leopard Trails Yala
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Leopard Safaris Yala
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Camp Leopard - Yala Safari Glamping
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Mahoora
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මගුල්මහා විහාරය | Magul Maha Viharaya
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Yala cozy safari tours
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Yala Safari Service Kataragama
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Yala safari katagamuwa
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Yala Beach
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Yala Safari Team / Jeep Safari in Yala National park
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Yala Wild House
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Tribe Yala
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Wild Trails Yala by suri