Things to do in Yala – Sri Lanka Southern Coast
Yala National Park
Yala National Park, located in the southeast region of Sri Lanka, is one of the country’s most famous wildlife reserves. It’s renowned for its diverse wildlife, including a high density of leopards, elephants, and various bird species. Participate in guided jeep safaris that take you through different zones of the park. Early morning and late afternoon are the best times for wildlife sightings.
Bundala National Park
Bundala National Park, located in the Southern Province of Sri Lanka, is a UNESCO-designated biosphere reserve and it is renowned for its birdlife, particularly as a wintering ground for migratory birds. It is one of the best places in Sri Lanka for bird watching. The park features a variety of wetland habitats, including lagoons, salt pans, marshes, and mangroves, supporting a diverse range of flora and fauna. In addition to birds, the park is home to numerous other animals, including elephants, crocodiles, wild boar, deer, and various species of monkeys.
Kumana National Park
Kumana National Park is located on the southeastern coast of Sri Lanka. It is renowned for its rich avian population, making it a paradise for bird watchers, and also offers a diverse range of wildlife and scenic landscapes. Kumana is famous for its significant birdlife, especially during the migratory season, with over 200 species recorded.
Udawalawe National Park
Udawalawe National Park is one of the best places in Sri Lanka to see Asian elephants, with an estimated population of around 600 individuals. The park spans over 30,000 hectares of dry grasslands, scrublands, and forests, offering visitors the opportunity to observe wildlife in their natural habitat. Guided jeep safaris are the main way to explore the park and observe its wildlife.
Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home
Udawalawe Ath Athuru Sevana is a specialized elephant transit home and rehabilitation center located within Udawalawe National Park in Sri Lanka. It plays a crucial role in the conservation efforts for orphaned and injured elephants, providing them with care, rehabilitation, and eventually reintegrating them into the wild.
Lunugamwehera National Park
Lunugamvehera National Park, located in the southeastern part of Sri Lanka, is a lesser-known but significant protected area known for its diverse wildlife and natural beauty. Situated in the Monaragala District of the Uva Province, Lunugamvehera National Park is part of the larger interconnected ecosystem that includes Yala National Park and Udawalawe National Park.
Radiyagama Safari Park
Ridiyagama Safari Park, also known as Ridiyagama Mini Zoo or Ridiyagama Safari Park and Zoo, is a popular wildlife attraction located near Hambantota in the southern part of Sri Lanka. Safari tours are typically conducted in safari jeeps or buses, allowing visitors to get closer to the animals.
Kataragama Temple
The temple complex is unique as it is revered by Buddhists, Hindus, Muslims, and the indigenous Vedda people. Kataragama Temple is dedicated to the deity Kataragama deviyo (also known as Skanda or Murugan), worshipped by Buddhists and Hindus. Muslims also venerate the site as it is believed to be the resting place of Al-Khidr, a figure in Islamic tradition. The site has ancient origins dating back over 2,000 years and is associated with numerous legends and historical events.
Kiri Vehera Sthupa
An ancient Buddhist stupa is located near the Kataragama Temple complex. It is believed to have been built by King Mahasena in the 3rd century BC.
Thissa Temple
Tissamaharama Raja Maha Vihara, commonly referred to as Tissa Temple, is a significant and historic Buddhist temple located in Tissamaharama, in the Southern Province of Sri Lanka. The temple dates back to the 3rd century BC and is believed to have been established by King Kavantissa, the ruler of the Kingdom of Ruhuna. It is one of the Solomonic temples (Atamasthana) that received the sacred Bo sapling from the original Bodhi tree in India, brought to Sri Lanka by Sanghamitta Theri, the daughter of Emperor Ashoka of India.
Thissa Lake
Tissa Lake, also known as Tissamaharama Wewa, is a large, ancient reservoir located in the town of Tissamaharama in the Southern Province of Sri Lanka. Tissa Lake was constructed in the 3rd century BC during the reign of King Kavantissa. It is one of the many ancient reservoirs built to support agriculture and provide water to the region.
Sithulpawwa Temple
Visit this ancient Buddhist monastery, believed to be over 2,000 years old, located within the park. The site offers stunning views and a glimpse into historical religious practices.
Magul Maha Viharaya
A significant ancient temple, believed to have been the site of a royal wedding. Explore the ruins and the surrounding forest.
Madunagala Hot Water Springs
Madunagala Hot Water Springs is a natural thermal spring located in the southern part of Sri Lanka, near the town of Madunagala in the Hambantota District. Madunagala Hot Water Springs is situated in a serene natural environment, surrounded by lush greenery and picturesque landscapes. The springs are believed to contain various minerals and trace elements that are beneficial for health and well-being.
