Yala National Park Sri Lanka – Your Ultimate Wildlife Safari Experience
Are you ready for a thrilling, once-in-a-lifetime wildlife adventure? Welcome to Yala National Park — the wild heart of Sri Lanka. This vast sanctuary is home to majestic leopards, elephants, sloth bears, and hundreds of other species.
On this page, you’ll find everything you need to plan your visit, avoid common mistakes, and book the perfect safari tour with us.
Why Yala National Park Sri Lanka Should Be On Your Bucket List
Yala National Park is not just another safari destination — it’s one of the most rewarding and unique wildlife experiences in Asia. However, visiting without preparation can lead to disappointment if you don’t see many animals or choose the wrong tour operator.
The good news is that with the right guide, timing, and planning, you can enjoy breathtaking wildlife sightings, dramatic landscapes, and memories that last a lifetime.
Here’s what makes Yala exceptional:
- It covers nearly 978–979 km² (approx. 378 sq mi) — the second largest national park in Sri Lanka.
- It boasts one of the highest densities of leopards in the world.
- Home to around 44 species of mammals and over 215 species of birds.
- Divided into five “blocks,” each with distinct terrain — not all are open to visitors.
- Features dry zone forests, scrubland, lagoons, and coastal stretches all in one ecosystem.
Location & Getting There
Yala National Park is located in the southeast of Sri Lanka, spanning the Southern and Uva Provinces.
The main entrance, Palatupana (Block I), lies about 20 km from Tissamaharama. From Colombo, it’s approximately a 5-hour drive depending on traffic. You can reach Yala by private car, taxi, or through a guided tour package.
Main Entrance & Blocks of the Park
The park is divided into five blocks (I–V), though not all are open year-round. Block I (Palatupana) is the most popular, offering the best chance to see leopards and large wildlife.
Entrance tips:
- Arrive early (around 6 a.m.) for peak animal activity.
- Choose a half-day (3–4 hours) or full-day safari for more chances to explore.
- Best time: dry season (February–July).
- Only licensed 4×4 safari jeeps with guides can enter — private cars are not allowed.
Safari Details – What to Expect
A typical Yala safari includes:
- Pick-up from your hotel early morning or late afternoon.
- Drive to the park via Tissamaharama or Palatupana.
- Enter the park in an open 4×4 jeep with a licensed driver/guide.
- Explore scenic tracks, waterholes, and lookout points.
- Return to your hotel or continue if you booked a full-day or sunset safari.
Top Safari Tips:
- Go early morning or late afternoon for active wildlife.
- Carry binoculars, camera, sunscreen, and water.
- Wear light, neutral colors (khaki or olive).
- Be patient — wildlife sightings are never guaranteed.
- Respect animals and keep a safe distance.
Yala Safari Price List
Yala Half Day Safari Prices
| Category | Passengers | Price (€) |
|---|---|---|
| Shared Safari (Adult 12+) | ||
| 1 Adult | 1 | €55 |
| 2 Adults | 2 | €55 × 2 = €110 |
| 3 Adults | 3 | €55 × 3 = €165 |
| 4 Adults | 4 | €45 × 4 = €180 |
| 5 Adults | 5 | €45 × 5 = €225 |
| 6 Adults | 6 | €45 × 6 = €240 |
| Private Safari (Adult 12+) | ||
| 1 Adult | 1 | €80 |
| 2 Adults | 2 | €60 × 2 = €120 |
| 3 Adults | 3 | €60 × 3 = €180 |
| 4 Adults | 4 | €55 × 4 = €220 |
| 5 Adults | 5 | €50 × 5 = €250 |
| 6 Adults | 6 | €50 × 6 = €300 |
| Children (Age 6–11) Shared & Private Same | ||
| 1 Child | 1 | €28 |
| 2 Children | 2 | €25 × 2 = €50 |
| 3 Children | 3 | €25 × 3 = €75 |
| 4 Children | 4 | €25 × 4 = €100 |
| 5 Children | 5 | €25 × 5 = €125 |
| Infants (Under 5, Free, must sit on lap) | ||
| 1 Infant | 1 | Free |
| 2 Infants | 2 | Free |
| 3 Infants | 3 | Free |
Yala Full Day Safari Prices
| Category | Passengers | Price (€) |
|---|---|---|
| Shared Safari (Adult 12+) | ||
| 1 Adult | 1 | €70 |
| 2 Adults | 2 | €70 × 2 = €140 |
| 3 Adults | 3 | €65 × 3 = €195 |
| 4 Adults | 4 | €60 × 4 = €240 |
| 5 Adults | 5 | €55 × 5 = €275 |
| 6 Adults | 6 | €50 × 6 = €300 |
| Private Safari (Adult 12+) | ||
| 1 Adult | 1 | €120 |
| 2 Adults | 2 | €75 × 2 = €150 |
| 3 Adults | 3 | €70 × 3 = €210 |
| 4 Adults | 4 | €65 × 4 = €260 |
| 5 Adults | 5 | €60 × 5 = €300 |
| 6 Adults | 6 | €55 × 6 = €330 |
| Children (Age 6–11) Shared & Private Same | ||
| 1 Child | 1 | €28 |
| 2 Children | 2 | €25 × 2 = €50 |
| 3 Children | 3 | €25 × 3 = €75 |
| 4 Children | 4 | €25 × 4 = €100 |
| 5 Children | 5 | €25 × 5 = €125 |
| Infants (Under 5, Free, must sit on lap) | ||
| 1 Infant | 1 | Free |
| 2 Infants | 2 | Free |
| 3 Infants | 3 | Free |
Wildlife Highlights
Yala’s rich biodiversity includes:
- Leopards – The park’s most famous residents.
- Elephants – Herds gather at waterholes during the dry season.
- Sloth Bears – Best seen around May–June when palu fruits ripen.
- Birdlife – Over 215 species, including many endemics.
- Other Animals – Crocodiles, spotted deer, wild boar, and monkeys.
Season, Climate & Best Time to Visit
Yala lies in Sri Lanka’s dry semi-arid zone. The northeast monsoon (Sept–Dec) brings most of the rain.
Best time to visit:
- February to July – Dry season, fewer waterholes, easy animal spotting.
- September to December – Greener scenery but reduced visibility for wildlife.
Average temperatures range between 26–30°C throughout the year.
Accommodation & Booking a Tour
Because Yala is one of Sri Lanka’s busiest parks, it’s smart to book in advance — especially for full-day safaris or peak seasons.
We recommend booking your safari through Pigeon Island Tours Pvt Ltd. Our experienced wildlife guides, reliable jeeps, and personalised service guarantee the best Yala experience.
Why Book With Pigeon Island Tours?
- Operated by professionals with deep wildlife conservation experience.
- Licensed safari jeeps and expert local guides.
- Flexible options: half-day, full-day, or special interest safaris.
- Direct bookings — no middlemen, instant confirmation.
- Personalised attention to your needs and timing.
Contact Details:
Company: Pigeon Island Tours Pvt Ltd
Phone/WhatsApp: +94 713 227 050
Email: (insert your email here)
Scroll down to fill out the booking form
Tour Options & Pricing
- Half-day safari: 3–4 hours (morning or afternoon).
- Full-day safari: 6–8 hours — best for serious photographers and wildlife enthusiasts.
- Special safaris: birdwatching, photography, or family-friendly trips.
All inclusive Safari Jeep + Entry Tickets Prices start from around €55 +, depending on group size and season. All park entry fees and permits will be quoted clearly before booking.
Park Regulations & Visitor Etiquette
- Only authorized safari jeeps allowed inside.
- Stay on designated tracks.
- Never feed or approach wildlife.
- Keep noise to a minimum.
- Carry your litter out of the park.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Will I definitely see a leopard?
A: No guarantee — but Yala offers some of the best odds in Asia.
Q: What is the entrance fee?
A: Prices vary depending on vehicle and group size. Ask your tour operator for the latest rates.
Q: Is Yala suitable for families?
A: Yes. With a professional guide and safe jeep, families can enjoy a comfortable and educational experience.
Q: Can I stay inside the park?
A: Some lodges operate near the buffer zone — booking early is recommended for morning access.
How to Book Your Safari
Contact Pigeon Island Tours via WhatsApp or call +94 713 227 050. Share your travel dates, number of guests, and hotel — we’ll prepare the ideal safari package for you.
We also arrange transfers, day-trips, and multi-day wildlife adventures across Sri Lanka.
Yala National Park Entrances – Palatupana vs Katagamuwa
Choosing the correct Yala National Park entrance is essential to make the most of your safari adventure. The park has two main access points — Palatupana Entrance and Katagamuwa Entrance. Each offers a different atmosphere, level of wildlife activity, and proximity to nearby towns such as Tissamaharama, Kirinda, and Kataragama.
🦁 Palatupana Entrance (Main / Official – Block I)
✅ Recommended for most visitors.
Palatupana is the main and most popular entrance to Yala National Park, giving direct access to
Block I — the area with the highest leopard density in Sri Lanka.
Most licensed jeep safaris and official park tours begin here. It’s well organized, with ticket counters,
parking, and a smooth road network.
- Best for: First-time visitors and wildlife enthusiasts.
- Closest Towns: Tissamaharama (20 km / 30 min) and Kirinda (12 km / 20 min).
- Highlights: Leopards, elephants, sloth bears, and excellent photographic opportunities.
- Facilities: Better road conditions, clear signage, and numerous safari jeep operators.
🐘 Katagamuwa Entrance (Alternate / Quieter – Block II)
🌿 Recommended for repeat visitors or photographers who prefer a peaceful experience. Katagamuwa offers entry to Block II and buffer zones of the park. It’s far less crowded than Palatupana, allowing for a calm, uninterrupted drive through nature. However, wildlife sightings — especially leopards — can be less frequent.
- Best for: Experienced safari lovers and birdwatchers.
- Closest Towns: Kataragama (12 km / 25 min) and Tissamaharama (25 km / 40 min).
- Highlights: Birds, elephants, and scenic forest drives with minimal vehicle traffic.
- Facilities: Fewer jeeps and basic visitor facilities.
📍 Entrance Comparison Table
| Feature | Palatupana Entrance | Katagamuwa Entrance |
|---|---|---|
| Main Access To | Block I (highest leopard density) | Block II / buffer zones |
| Crowds | High – very popular | Low – peaceful and quiet |
| Road Condition | Well maintained and signposted | Rougher terrain, less signage |
| Nearest Town | Kirinda / Tissamaharama | Kataragama |
| Wildlife Density | Very high (leopards, elephants, bears) | Moderate (birds, elephants) |
| Recommended For | First-time visitors, general safaris | Repeat visitors, photographers, birdwatchers |
🚗 Distance from Key Towns
| Town | Distance to Palatupana | Distance to Katagamuwa |
|---|---|---|
| Tissamaharama | ~20 km / 30 min | ~25 km / 40 min |
| Kataragama | ~24 km / 40 min | ~12 km / 25 min |
| Kirinda | ~12 km / 20 min | ~30 km / 45 min |
| Hambantota | ~45 km / 1 hr 15 min | ~55 km / 1 hr 30 min |
🦓 Final Recommendation
✅ Choose Palatupana Entrance if you want the highest chance of leopard and elephant sightings
and easy access from Tissamaharama or Kirinda.
🌿 Choose Katagamuwa Entrance if you prefer a quiet, crowd-free safari or if you’re
staying closer to Kataragama town.
Don’t Miss Out!
Book your Yala National Park adventure today — make it unforgettable with Pigeon Island Tours!
Explore More National Park Safaris in Sri Lanka
Yala Palatupana Entrance Safari with Pigeon Island Tours
Among the many natural treasures of Sri Lanka, Yala National Park stands out as the most popular and wildlife-rich safari destination on the island. For travelers seeking the ultimate wildlife experience, the Palatupana Entrance is the main gateway to this magnificent park. If you are planning a Yala safari, booking through a trusted operator like Pigeon Island Tours ensures a smooth, safe, and unforgettable adventure.
About Yala National Park
Yala National Park is located in the southeast corner of Sri Lanka, spanning over 978 square kilometers. It is renowned for its remarkable biodiversity, vast dry forests, coastal lagoons, rocky plains, and sandy beaches. The park shelters over 44 species of mammals and more than 215 species of birds, including several endemics.
Yala is divided into five administrative blocks, but Block I—accessible through the Palatupana Entrance—is the most famous and frequently visited section. It’s here that travelers have the best chance to encounter the park’s most iconic resident, the Sri Lankan leopard (Panthera pardus kotiya), known for its impressive density within this protected area.
Palatupana Entrance – The Gateway to Yala’s Wild Beauty
The Palatupana Entrance is situated about 20 kilometers from the town of Tissamaharama in the Hambantota District. It serves as the primary access point to Yala Block I, which offers the most scenic landscapes and richest wildlife encounters.
Most safari jeeps start their journey from hotels in Tissamaharama, Kirinda, or nearby resorts. Visitors usually gather at the Palatupana gate around 5:30 a.m. to be among the first vehicles allowed entry at 6:00 a.m., when the park opens. Early morning safaris are the best time to observe animals like leopards, elephants, peacocks, deer, and sloth bears in action, especially before the heat of the day sets in.
The Palatupana Entrance also houses the main Department of Wildlife Conservation (DWC) ticket office and checkpoints where all visitors must present their entry permits. The area includes parking, restrooms, and a few local vendors selling refreshments before the safari begins.
Why Choose Pigeon Island Tours for Your Yala Safari
When visiting Yala, selecting the right tour operator is the difference between an ordinary drive and an extraordinary adventure. Pigeon Island Tours Pvt Ltd is a professional, locally-owned company with extensive experience in organizing wildlife tours across Sri Lanka. With years of expertise and a passion for nature, the team ensures that every traveler enjoys a safe, ethical, and memorable experience inside the park.
1. Professional and Licensed Safari Drivers
All Pigeon Island Tours jeep drivers are licensed and trained by the Department of Wildlife Conservation. They know Yala’s terrain, animal behavior, and photography hotspots—offering you the best chance of remarkable sightings while prioritizing safety and respect for wildlife.
2. Comfortable and Well-Maintained Jeeps
Each safari jeep is a 4×4 vehicle equipped with open viewing seats, cushioned seating, and safety gear. Whether you book a half-day, full-day, or private safari, comfort is guaranteed throughout your journey through the rugged terrain of Yala.
3. Ethical and Eco-Friendly Practices
Pigeon Island Tours follows responsible tourism principles. The team ensures minimal disturbance to animals and avoids overcrowding at sightings—unlike many operators who rush or block animals’ paths. By choosing this operator, you directly support sustainable tourism and wildlife protection in Sri Lanka.
4. Flexible Safari Options
Depending on your schedule and interests, you can choose from:
- Morning Safari (Half-Day): 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.
- Afternoon Safari: 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
- Full-Day Safari: From 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., ideal for photographers and wildlife lovers.
- Private Safari: Custom-tailored with exclusive jeep and guide.
Wildlife You Can See at Yala Palatupana
The Palatupana region of Yala National Park is home to a rich mix of species that showcase the island’s unique biodiversity. Here are some highlights you might encounter during your safari:
- Leopards: Yala has one of the world’s highest leopard densities. Early morning drives increase your chance of seeing them resting on rocks or hunting in the brush.
- Elephants: Small herds and solitary males can be seen near waterholes, particularly during the dry months.
- Sloth Bears: These shy creatures are most active when palu fruits ripen from May to July.
- Birdlife: Spot peacocks, painted storks, eagles, kingfishers, and Sri Lankan endemics such as the junglefowl and grey hornbill.
- Reptiles: Monitor lizards, mugger crocodiles, and freshwater turtles often bask in the sun near lakes and lagoons.
Best Time to Visit Yala via Palatupana Entrance
The best months to explore Yala are from February to July, during the dry season. Water sources become limited, drawing animals into open areas for easy viewing. The park usually closes in September for annual maintenance and wildlife breeding periods.
Morning safaris are particularly rewarding for spotting big cats and active predators, while afternoon safaris are ideal for birdwatching and catching elephants bathing in the lagoons at sunset.
Booking and Entrance Information
When entering through the Palatupana gate, every visitor must have an official permit, which includes entrance fees, jeep fees, and DWC charges. Pigeon Island Tours handles all these arrangements for you, so you can relax and enjoy your experience without worrying about paperwork or queues.
Tour prices vary depending on group size, season, and safari duration. You can get a full quotation in advance by contacting Pigeon Island Tours directly via WhatsApp or email.
How to Book Your Yala Palatupana Safari
Booking your Yala safari with Pigeon Island Tours is simple and secure. You can contact the team through:
Phone / WhatsApp: +94 713 227 050
Email: (Insert your email here)
Company: Pigeon Island Tours Pvt Ltd
The company also arranges transport to Yala from popular destinations like Trincomalee, Colombo, Kandy, or Ella. Whether you need one-way transfers or a full Sri Lanka round tour, all logistics can be managed for you.
Experience the Magic of Yala with the Right Team
Every safari in Yala is different. Some days you might see a leopard at sunrise; other days you might witness herds of elephants crossing the plains or a sloth bear wandering through the forest. Nature is unpredictable—but with Pigeon Island Tours, your odds of enjoying a successful and meaningful experience are higher than ever.
Choosing an experienced, ethical, and dedicated operator ensures not just a better safari, but a deeper appreciation of Sri Lanka’s natural beauty and wildlife heritage.
Book Your Adventure Now
If you dream of seeing leopards in the wild, photographing elephants at sunset, and feeling the true heartbeat of Sri Lanka’s wilderness, don’t wait. Book your Yala National Park safari via Palatupana Entrance with Pigeon Island Tours today!
Contact us at +94 713 227 050 and begin your unforgettable Yala adventure.
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