Yala National Park

Yala National Park, Sri Lanka's most visited wildlife sanctuary, boasts the world's highest density of leopards.

Native Flora

The park features semi-arid thorny scrub, brackish lagoons, and deciduous forests. Notable tree species include Manilkara hexandra (Palu), Chloroxylon swietenia (Satinwood), and Drypetes sepiaria (Weera). The coastal vegetation includes unique dune flora adapted to maritime conditions.

Wildlife

Yala is famous for its Sri Lankan leopards, with Block I having one of the highest densities globally. The park supports 44 mammal species including sloth bear, elephant, and four species of deer. Over 215 bird species have been recorded, including six endemic to Sri Lanka.

Visitor Guide

Explore the famous Block I for leopard spotting, visit the ancient Sithulpawwa monastery, and witness sunset at Patanangala beach. The park offers guided safaris, camping facilities, and the Yala Peak observation point. Historical sites include the Magul Maha Vihara ruins.