Joanna James
Sri Lanka is an island which is much more than a beach destination. The bio-diverse environments are amazing; amongst these, the wildlife sanctuaries are nothing short of 'exotic'! Listed below are some of the best.
Yala is the most popular of all national parks in Sri Lanka. Located in the Deep South, this beautiful reserve is lauded as being home to one of Asia's largest leopard populations. The place is a haven of biodiversity, boasting rugged boulder-strewn beaches, glistening lagoons, scrub jungles and wild open plains. Set off on an early morning or early evening safari into the wilds and discover a number of mammals, amphibians, reptiles and birds. From elephants on the beach to peacocks on the trees and leopards chasing prey, you will be amazed by the beauty of Yala. Wildlife tours are very popular amongst tourists, with 4x4 safaris available with top tour agencies like Walkers Tours in Sri Lanka. If you want the best tour, make sure to also check out the fabulous Sri Lanka holiday offers up for grabs.
Minneriya is within easy reach of Sigiriya, and if you are touring the Cultural Triangle section of this region, do make time to explore this reserve. Elephants in hordes can be seen within this beautiful, park, serviced by a huge lake, believed to have been built by an ancient king. The surroundings of the lake are stunning, lush grassy fields and boulder-strewn banks wait. Head there during the August high season and you will come across migratory elephants by the herds. Cute calves, cuddling up to their mothers and protective bull elephants make up the amazing herds, while plenty of other wildlife such as crocodiles, monitor lizards, peacocks, monkeys etc. will make your experience one to cherish.
Wilpattu is the largest national park in Sri Lanka. The flora and fauna of this coastal park, located about 30kms north of Puttalam, is quite amazing; there you can spot a number of mammals as well as, swarms of vividly coloured butterflies. The environs consist of coastal vistas, large grassy plains, scrub jungles, lush forests and glistening lakes. The waterlogged areas are home to a number of aquatic birds and amphibians which are a boon to all enthusiastic photographers.
Wild elephants, elegant sambar, spotted deer, buffalo, purple-faced langur monkeys and other exotic critters will thrill you in the verdant jungles of Wasgamuwa National Park. Look out for crocodiles skulking around the waterholes and pythons slinking off into the scrub jungles; in Wasgamuwa, you can treat the nature lover in you to some very exotic adventures.
Above all, Bundala National Park is a birders paradise. Located 251kms from the commercial capital Colombo, this beautiful wildlife reserve, boasts over 200 varieties of bird species. Get out those binoculars and cameras as you plan a trek into the wilds of Bundala, also home to over 32 types of mammals.
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