National Parks In Sri Lanka
National Parks In Sri Lanka
The wildlife photography tour of Sri Lanka is one of the popular attractions in the country. Sri Lanka is home to top wildlife safari parks and forest reserves, including Wilpattu National Park, Minneriya National Park, Yala National Park, Bundala National Park, Horton Plains National Park (a UNESCO World Heritage site), and Sinharaja Rain Forest. This safari tour, carefully designed by JK Travels, offers an opportunity to explore the cultural heritage of Sri Lanka while enjoying a wildlife holiday.
Sri Lanka consists of 92 species of mammals, 440 bird species, 242 butterfly species, 117 dragonfly species, and 190 reptiles, of which 98 are snakes. The remaining reptiles include various lizards, crocodiles, and turtles.
National Parks in Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka is home to 26 national parks, each offering unique opportunities to explore the country’s abundant wildlife and natural beauty. Here are some of the most popular national parks in Sri Lanka:
Uda Walawe National Park
Located in the Sabaragamuwa and Uva Provinces, Uda Walawe National Park is renowned for its impressive population of elephants, leopards, and diverse birdlife. This park provides a wonderful opportunity to witness these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. The vast grasslands and water reservoirs within the park create a picturesque setting for wildlife enthusiasts
Kumana National Park
Situated in the southeastern part of Sri Lanka, Kumana National Park is another fantastic destination for wildlife lovers. This park is particularly famous for its rich avian population, making it a paradise for birdwatchers. With its scenic lagoons, mangrove swamps, and sand dunes, Kumana National Park offers a remarkable experience for nature enthusiasts.
Yala National Park
Yala National Park, the most visited and second-largest national park in Sri Lanka, is located on the southeastern coast of the island, bordering the Indian Ocean. It comprises five blocks and is home to a wide range of wildlife species, including elephants, leopards, sloth bears, and numerous bird species. The diverse ecosystems within the park, ranging from dense forests to pristine beaches, make Yala a must-visit destination for wildlife enthusiasts.
Hurulu Eco Park
If you are looking to combine an elephant wildlife safari in Sri Lanka with visits to ancient cultural sites, Hurulu Eco Park is the perfect choice. This national park is located in close proximity to the ancient city of Anuradhapura and offers a unique opportunity to witness the majestic elephants of Sri Lanka while immersing yourself in the country’s rich heritage.
List of UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Sri Lanka
The World Heritage list compiled by UNESCO features eight remarkable sites in Sri Lanka that are considered vital to the world’s heritage and deserving of protection. These include:
- The ruins of the ancient kingdom of Anuradhapura, which thrived from the 5th century BC until the 10th century.
- The ruins of Polonnaruwa, the successor kingdom, which existed from the 9th to the 14th century.
- Sigiriya Rock, an impressive fortress established in the 5th century.
Additionally, the entire city of Kandy, which served as the seat of kings from the 16th to the 19th century, along with its revered temple, is designated as a World Heritage site. The Dambulla Caves and Temple, dating back to the 1st century BC, are also included. Galle Fort, initiated by the Portuguese in 1588, holds the number 200 position on UNESCO’s list. Two natural landmarks featured are the Sinharaja Forest Reserve and the Central Highlands, which encompass the Peak Wilderness, Horton Plains, and the Knuckles Conservation Forest.