Best destinations for wild safari – experience nature at its best

The other famous wildlife sanctuary in Sri Lanka is the Wilpattu National Park. Much larger than Yala, the Wilpattu is also popular with its leopard sightings which is evident although not as common as Yala. A dense jungle covers most of Wilpattu which is adorned by a number of interesting lakes where thirsty wildlife are likely to be spotted. The common inhabitants of Wilpattu are very similar to those of Yala and as long as the right season is chosen, you are likely to spot most of Wilpattu's inhabitants in abundance.

If a safari with the elephants is what you are looking for, it does not get better than the Udawalawe National Park. Located some 170 kilometers south east of Colombo, this park has a rich collection of elephants which you can witness as they go about their daily routines. Keep in mind though that as innocent as they look, these elephants are definitely wild but watching them in their natural habitat is what is most fascinating about Udawalawe. Apart from elephants, Udawalawe also has an abundant collection of peacocks. If you are lucky you may also spot a couple of desperate males spreading out their feather in an attempt to lure the pea hens!

Although the second largest national park in Sri Lanka, the Yala National Park is by far the most popular national park in the country. Adorned with a collection of mammals, birds and reptiles, Yala is a paradise for the eco tourist who can stay at such options as Cinnamon Wild Yala and explore the park. Although elephant herds are found in abundance at the Yala National Park, the sanctuary is most famously known for its leopard population. In fact, the Yala national park has the highest leopard density in the whole world. Visitors flock from all over the country and the world to stand a chance witness Yala's abundant leopard population. In fact, hotels in Yala Sri Lanka are packed during the peak seasons and reservations must be made well in advance to ensure a comfortable stay in the city in close proximity to the sanctuary.

A rather uncommon national park in Sri Lanka, the Gal Oya is most famous for its abundant elephant population. Located in Inginiyagala, the National Park is roughly 315 kilometers from Colombo and has quite an enchanting setting to go with its dense elephant population.