Explore The Beauty Of Minneriya National Park

Plan your visit to Minneriya National Park

About

Minneriya National Park is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts planning a trip to Sri Lanka. Located in the North Central Province, this park is renowned for its diverse vegetation and captivating wildlife. The park is home to a vast expanse of lush forests, grasslands, and wetlands, creating a perfect habitat for a wide range of flora and fauna. Visitors can expect to encounter various species of animals, including elephants, leopards, deer, and numerous bird species. To make the most out of your visit, it is advisable to bring sunscreen, insect repellent, and comfortable shoes. Also, carrying a pair of binoculars will enhance your wildlife spotting experience. Additionally, it is recommended to visit during the dry season, between June and September, when the animals gather around the Minneriya Tank, providing a spectacular opportunity to witness the famous elephant gathering. Plan your trip accordingly and immerse yourself in the natural wonders of Minneriya National Park.

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History of the National Park

Minneriya National Park is a national park located in the North Central Province of Sri Lanka. It was originally declared as a wildlife sanctuary in 1938. It was designated as a national park on August 12, 1997, to protect the catchment of the Minneriya tank and the wildlife of the surrounding area.

Vegetation of the park

The park is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna. The main habitats of Minneriya are of several types, including low-canopy montane forests, intermediate high-canopy secondary forests, scrublands, abandoned chena lands, grasslands, rocky outcrops, and wetlands.

Wildlife of the park

It is a dry season feeding ground for the elephant population dwelling in the forests of Matale, Polonnaruwa, and Trincomalee districts. The park’s faunal species include 24 species of mammals, 160 species of birds, 9 species of amphibians, 25 species of reptiles, 26 species of fish, and 75 species of butterflies. The park is inhabited by elephants, leopards, sloth bears, spotted deer, sambar deer, wild buffalo, wild pig, grey langurs, purple-faced leaf monkey, three species of mongoose, porcupine, and Indian pangolin.

When to visit

The best time to visit Minneriya National Park is during the dry season from May to September when the animals are drawn outside towards the water hole. However, if you want to witness the elephant gathering, it would be from the end of July to September when many of the elephants also migrate from the nearby areas making it a remarkable experience.

How to get there

The park is situated 182 kilometres (113 miles) from Colombo. To get to Minneriya National Park, you can take a taxi or a bus from Colombo. The journey takes approximately 4 hours by car.

How to get prepared

To prepare for a safari in Minneriya National Park, it is recommended to wear comfortable clothes and shoes, a hat, and sunglasses. It is also advisable to carry sunscreen and insect repellent. Also, take a binocular and a camera to see the wildlife closer. To get the best experience hire a guide/driver with a safari jeep.

Accommodations

Minneriya National Park is surrounded by a variety of accommodations that cater to different preferences and budgets. Whether you are looking for luxury resorts, comfortable hotels, or rustic guesthouses, there are options available to suit every traveler's needs. Some of the accommodations offer stunning views of the park, allowing you to witness the wildlife from the comfort of your room. Others provide easy access to the park entrance, making it convenient for early morning or late evening safaris. Additionally, many of these accommodations offer amenities such as swimming pools, spa facilities, and on-site restaurants, ensuring a pleasant and relaxing stay. With a wide range of choices available, visitors to Minneriya National Park can find the perfect place to unwind and immerse themselves in the beauty of nature.

Recommended places to stay

Several accommodations around Minneriya National Park cater to wildlife enthusiasts. Some of the recommended places to stay are:

Cinnamon Lodge Habarana: A luxury hotel located in Habarana, which is 15 minutes away from Minneriya National Park.
Jetwing Vil Uyana: A luxury eco-resort located in Sigiriya, which is 30 minutes away from Minneriya National Park.
Elephant Corridor Hotel: A luxury hotel located in Sigiriya, which is 30 minutes away from Minneriya National Park.

Please note that the above list is not exhaustive and several other accommodations are available in the area.

Location

Address

Minneriya National Park, Sri Lanka

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