Sri Lanka, a magical island in the Indian Ocean, is not only famous for its culture, beaches, tea, and spices, but it is also renowned for its rich wildlife and adventure activities. I was very fascinated by the flora and fauna during my visit to Sri Lanka. It is a paradise for bird-watchers, famous for Asian Elephants and one of the best places to spot blue whales. Apart from the world-famous national parks, which are known for leopards, elephants, and spotted deer, one has the opportunity to be close to nature with beautiful trekking trails.
Having said that, I loved visiting the wildlife places of Sri Lanka and, thus, would recommend you to not miss out if you are planning to visit Sri Lanka!
I was very intrigued by another thing in the country! The Sri Lankans wobble their heads to say ‘yes’ or to agree with you. For a person who comes from a culture where wobble means ‘no’ and nodding means ‘yes’, it is quite confusing and quite interesting.
Incredible Places to See Wildlife in Sri Lanka
Minneriya National Park
Minneriya is situated close to the cultural site of Sigiriya.
The dry season here lasts from June through September, and it is the best time to visit this park – when the ancient tank that dominates the area shrinks and grasses & shoots push through. During my visit, I could see over 100 elephants, which is locally termed ‘The Elephant Gathering’. Minneriya was opened in 2002 to extend the elephant corridor in this region and to ensure a safe passage. Kaudulla reservoir draws herds of elephants during the dry season. September and October are the best time to visit, although the season can extend up to December.
More than 20 mammals have been recorded in Minneriya National Park. Apart from elephants, this park also has the leopard, sloth bear, spotted deer, sambar, wild buffalo, wild pig, monkey, mongoose, porcupine, and pangolin. Nine species of amphibians have been seen, among them being the native red-lipped lizard, water & land monitor lizard, and mugger crocodile. It is also a place for bird lovers as it has recorded more than 170 species of birds. Experience of the visit can’t be described in words!
Yala National Park
Yala National Park is the most popular national park in Sri Lanka and has the highest density of leopards in the world. It is spread in an area of 141 sq km in different blocks and is home of many species of animals including the sloth bear, wild elephant, buffalo, monkey, sambar, deer, and crocodiles. The main attraction is the endangered leopard sub-species Pantheraparduskotiya, which is found only in Sri Lanka. The dry months from May to September are the best time for viewing big game in Yala, including leopards and sloth bear.
From October to April, Yala becomes home to many species of migratory birds and is also a hotspot for bird-watching.
Whale Watching in Mirissa
Whale watching in Sri Lanka is considered as one of the best in the world. Dolphins, sperm whales, and blue whales can be commonly spotted near Mirissa, a small coastal town on the southern tip of the island. The coastline lies unusually close to the point when the ocean floor drops dramatically and where larger marine life is found, therefore it does not take too long to reach these deep waters from Sri Lanka’s western, southern and eastern coastlines. Whale and dolphin watching is possible from Kalpitiya, Bentota and Mirissa from December through April.
Hotels of all categories (budget to luxury) are available in Sri Lanka, and road conditions are absolutely up to the mark on the island.
So visit soon! Contact us for a tailor-made tour program of Sri Lanka.
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