Joanna James
As one of the Asia's wildlife hotspots, Sri Lanka is home to a large number of national parks for such a small island. Here are 5 national parks all visitors must visit when touring the country.
Located near Polonnaruwa, Minneriya National Park is one of the finest wildlife sanctuaries in the island and a safari hotspot like no other. Mainly consisting of grasslands and shrubs the park is spread out over an area of thirty square miles. The entire sanctuary is fed by a mammoth reservoir of the same name due to the dry nature of the weather in the area. The best time to visit the Minneriya National Park is during the months from June to September when a larger variety of mammals are visible to tourists. One of the most spectacular events that take place at the park is the large elephant gathering which was documented by the Discovery Channel and National Geographic on several occasions. The Gathering brings together the largest number of gentle giants to a single location and is an annual occurrence. Some of the other wildlife inhabitants occupying the park include deer, toque monkeys and leopards while migratory and endemic birds are also part of the landscape.
As the country's most popular national park, the Yala National Park is a highlight for all wildlife enthusiasts holidaying in Sri Lanka as the park is also among the largest sanctuaries in the country. Sprawled across a whopping 370 square miles, there are several entryways to this iconic national park. Some of the most coveted species found in the park include leopards and Asian elephants while reptile varieties including snakes and lizards also call the locale home. Crocodiles and bird life are other reasons to visit this extensive wildlife enclosure that's one of Sri Lanka's best safari hubs. Those who are hoping to visit the park should avoid travelling to Yala in the months from September to October as the park is closed during the period.
Tipped to be the best place in Sri Lanka to witness hers of wild elephants, Udawalawe National Park is the perfect pit stop for those in search of wild adventures. Home to nearly four hundred gentle giants the national park occupies a space of 3000ha and is also home to 180 types of birds. The Walawe Reservoir is also part of the landscape and serves as a crucial water source for the park during the drier months of the year. The best time to visit the park is during the months from November till March which are also ideal for bird watching activities as many migratory birds head to the island to escape the cold winters.
Consisting of lagoons, sand dunes, salt plains, dense forests and coastlines, the Bundala National Park may be the most geographically diverse national park in the country. Birding enthusiasts from around the world flock to this wildlife hub to witness the many winged beauties occupying the park. Some of the top mammals found in the Bundala National Park include spotted fishing cats, deer and languars. The park is located in a 30 square mile area and is perfect those in search of a short safari tour option.
Another birding haven in Sri Lanka, the Kumana National Park is also home to spotted deer, sambar deer and herd of elephants. The swamp like landscapes or "villus" of the park make the locale the perfect breeding ground for a plethora of species including bird such as black necked storks egrets and godwits. Walkers Tours and other similar local travel organizations offer safari trips and tours in Sri Lanka for those interested in exploring this pristine wildlife heartland.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
