Yala, Sri Lanka

Situated in the southern part of the country, this is where the beauties and the beasts live in harmony. Comprising of over 6 national parks and three wildlife sanctuaries, Yala has today become synonymous to flora and fauna. Apart from this, the region also boasts of a rich heritage courtesy the ancient civilisations that took shape here.

Places to visit in Yala

YALA NATIONAL PARK

The Yala National Park is a wonderful maze of streams, lakes, rock pools and lagoons that glitter like Gold in the blazing sun. These beautiful waterways in turn give way to multiple ecosystems like moist forest, deciduous forests, grasslands and wetlands which together make way for some exotic fauna. This 970 sq km wonderland boasts of mammoth numbers when it comes to diversity, beginning with 215 species of birds, 44 species of mammals, 47 different reptiles and over 20 types of fishes.

KUMANA NATIONAL PARK

Popular among the feather flock, this region is known for its distinct and diverse varieties of birds that roost around. From Herons to Spoonbills to Sandpipers, this swampy park has much to its credit, adding to this profusion are the elephants, crocodiles, fish and turtles. The rich fauna is complemented by an even rich flora, comprising of riverine forests, overshadowing trees and colourful aquatic plants. The 20 odd lagoons and tanks together support this eclectic natural bounty.