Angammedilla National Park
A small park located near Polonnaruwa, the Angammedilla National Park was established to protect the catchment area of the historic Parakrama Samudraya.
For enthusiasts of wildlife and nature, Sri Lanka stands as a haven boasting incredible biodiversity. This rich variety is a result of the country’s diverse climatic conditions and varied topography. The extensive network of Sri Lanka’s wildlife parks and conservation zones, dispersed across the island, offers unparalleled opportunities for captivating wildlife sightings. It’s a testament to the country’s commitment to preserving and showcasing its natural wonders. Explore the wonders of Sri Lanka’s wildlife, where each park and zone unveils a unique tapestry of fauna, making it an ideal destination for those eager to immerse themselves in the beauty of the natural world
Yala National Park, nestled in the southeastern region of Sri Lanka, undoubtedly stands out as the most favored destination for wildlife enthusiasts. Revered for possessing the highest concentration of leopards per square kilometer globally, a visit here virtually guarantees a sighting of this elusive and stealthy feline. The park’s expansive scrub jungle, punctuated by rocky outcrops, provides habitat not only for leopards but also for majestic elephants and herds of spotted deer, ensuring a diverse and captivating safari experience.
On the opposite end in the northwest, Wilpattu National Park holds the distinction of being the country’s largest in terms of area. Renowned for its exceptional sightings of the elusive sloth bear, Wilpattu’s landscape is characterized by an abundance of shallow water bodies. These watery habitats serve as a haven for numerous species of waterbirds, both resident and migratory, creating a picturesque setting for wildlife enthusiasts to immerse themselves in the wonders of Sri Lanka’s diverse and vibrant fauna.
Experience the world’s largest congregation of elephants at Minneriya National Park or Kaudulla National Park, a spectacle that unfolds every evening. Majestic pachyderms emerge from the thick scrub, forming an impressive gathering as they graze and quench their thirst along the shores of Minneriya Lake. Venture to Uda Walawe National Park in the south-central region for another remarkable opportunity to witness elephants in their natural habitat.
For a more heartwarming encounter, make a stop at the Pinnawela Elephant Orphanage on your way to Kandy. Here, baby elephants are lovingly cared for by skilled handlers, creating a serene and nurturing environment. The most captivating moments occur during feeding and bathing times, offering a gentler and more intimate experience with these incredible creatures
Renowned as a haven for bird enthusiasts, Sri Lanka boasts five RAMSAR sites, making it a paradise for those who revel in avian wonders. In the southern expanse, Bundala takes center stage with its brackish water lagoons and is famed for hosting vast flocks of migratory flamingos, creating a mesmerizing spectacle.
In the same region, Kumana National Park holds the distinction of being one of the country’s initial designated bird sanctuaries. Embracing a harmonious blend of wetland and forested areas, it offers a sanctuary where, with a stroke of luck, you may catch a glimpse of the elusive Southern Sirkeer.
Venture to the northwest, and you’ll find the Anawilundawa Wetlands, characterized by a network of tanks that harbor a diverse array of waders and waterfowl, providing a tranquil retreat for birdwatching enthusiasts.
For an encounter with Sri Lanka’s endemic bird species, the Sinharaja Rainforest stands as an unrivaled destination. Twenty out of the country’s twenty-six endemic bird species call this rainforest home. Keep your eyes peeled for sightings of the resplendent Blue Magpie, the striking Green-billed Coucal, and the captivating Red-faced Malkoha, ensuring an unforgettable birding experience.
Beyond the vibrant land habitats, Sri Lanka’s wildlife extends into the surrounding ocean, creating a captivating hotspot for whale and dolphin enthusiasts. The southern coastal town of Mirissa takes center stage for whale watching, with sightings occurring relatively close to the shore. The seas here teem with majestic marine life, offering an unparalleled experience.
If your heart is set on dolphin watching, set your course for the Kalpitiya peninsula. This coastal gem is renowned for hosting super pods of bottle-nosed dolphins, providing an enchanting spectacle against the backdrop of the vast ocean. Prepare for an immersive marine adventure as you witness these intelligent creatures frolicking in their natural habitat. Sri Lanka’s coastal waters, a realm of marine marvels, await your exploration.
A small park located near Polonnaruwa, the Angammedilla National Park was established to protect the catchment area of the historic Parakrama Samudraya.
The most popular destination for game watching in Sri Lanka. Its landscape and topography ranges from dense scrub jungle to open plains, provides habitat to 45 mammalian and 215 bird species.
Wilpattu National Park, which literally means land of lakes, is Sri Lanka’s largest park & home to many animals including leopards, sloth bears & elephants.
Udawalawe National Park is by far the best park in the country to see elephants in the wild. There are around 600 elephants that reside in the park.
The Somawathie Chaitiya Sanctuary lies in the east of the country, with its expanse covering most of the delta of the Mahaweli River, Sri Lanka’s longest.
Located close to Arugam Bay, the Lahugala Kitulana National Park is one of the country’s smallest parks, centred around three large man made reservoirs.
Bundala, a RAMSAR wetland, is renowned as one of Sri Lanka’s best bird watching locations- with migratory greater flamingoes, whistling teal, gargeny, Asian openbill, painted stork & black headed ibis
The Flood Plains National Park acts as an important elephant migration corridor between Wasgamuwa National Park and Somawathiya National Park.
Lunugamvehera National Park links the Yala National Park and the Uda Walawe National Park, providing an important corridor for elephant migration.