Yala National Park is the second-largest national park in Sri Lanka, located on the southeastern coast of the island. The park covers an area of 978.8 square kilometers and is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including elephants, leopards, sloth bears, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species.
Yala National Park is famous for its leopard population, with the highest density of leopards found in the world. The park offers visitors the opportunity to see these elusive predators up close in their natural habitat. The park is also home to a variety of other mammals, including elephants, water buffalo, sambar deer, spotted deer, and wild boar.
The park has several water bodies, including rivers, streams, and lagoons, which provide a habitat for aquatic wildlife such as crocodiles, fish, and water birds. The park's coastline is also home to several turtle nesting sites, and visitors can witness the nesting and hatching process during certain times of the year.
Yala National Park is also a bird watcher's paradise, with over 215 bird species recorded in the park. Some of the rare bird species found in the park include the Sri Lankan junglefowl, red-faced malkoha, Sri Lanka grey hornbill, and black-necked stork.
Visitors to Yala National Park can explore the park on a guided safari tour, either in a jeep or on foot. The park has several designated safari routes, and visitors are required to follow these routes and adhere to park rules to ensure the safety of the wildlife.
In terms of accommodation, there are several options available in and around the park, ranging from luxury lodges and tented camps to budget guesthouses and camping sites.
In conclusion, Yala National Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. With its diverse range of wildlife, stunning landscapes, and guided safari tours, visitors can experience the true beauty of Sri Lanka's natural treasures.