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This is leopard country, and they are the Lords of the Jungle! With a leopard density that's higher than anywhere else on this planet, these menacing predators prowl majestically in Yala, while elephants roam in their numbers with cautious deer scampering by their side

News| From the wild

4 Entry Points to Yala:

There are four Gates to the Park. Gates at Palatupana and Katagamuwa leading to Blocks 1 & 2 remain the most visited. However, the two Gates at Galge on the Buttala-Kataragama Road, covering Blocks 3 & 5 are becoming known among visitors who do not want to contribute to congestion. There are reports of frequent sightings of leopards on these routes, too.

Elephants on the Road:

If you are traveling on the Buttala-Kataragama Road, watch out for wild animals, especially elephants. This road literally runs through the park and some elephants are in the habit of soliciting fruits from motorists by standing across the road, allowing passage once appeased. However, elephants will give way when a vehicle approaches and are known to be well-mannered. Don’t assume every elephant venturing on to the road to be people-friendly. Drive cautiously; never alight your vehicle.

Area 378 sq miles
Location 260km South East of Colombo
Entry points Gate1: Katagamuwa Gate 2: Palatupana Gate 3 & 4: Galge
Aver.Temp 26.4 °C (79.5 °F)
Climate Dry most of the year
Nearest city Kataragama
Distance to nearest city 25km - 30 minutes drive
Best time to visit June to September
Open hours 6am to 6pm
Coordinates 6°22'22N 81°31'01E
Made a Park in 1st March 1938
Distance from Kataragama to: Katagamuwa Entrance: 14Km Palatupana Entrance: 41Km Galge Entrance: 18Km
Distance from Buttala to: Galge Entrance: 25Km
Nearest Hospital: Debarawewa Government Hospital
Head office: Open from 9am to 6pm

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THEIR LIFE
IS IN YOUR HANDS

ARE YOU A RESPONSIBLE VISITOR?

As the number of visitors to this world-famous park increases, so does its impact on nature. While the incredible world of wildlife must be experienced, you must take it to your heart that you cannot even leave your foot print behind. So let’s take a moment to understand what wildlife is all about and how you can confidently proclaim that you are a true lover of nature.