Yala National Park

Yala is Sri Lanka's most famous national park. Forming a total area of 1268 sq km of scrub, light forest, grassy plains and brackish lagoons, it's very rich in wildlife and you're virtually certain to encounter elephants, crocodiles, buffaloes and monkeys. Plan your trip carefully, however – such is Yala's appeal that the main tracks and viewing spots can be crowded.

Wild Spotted deer

Getty Images/iStockphoto

Book
Lonely Planet's Best in Travel 2026
Book

Lonely Planet's Best in Travel 2026

Shop $19.99 USD
Trip
14 Days in Sri Lanka: Lush Lands and Wildlife Corridors
14 days / 13 nights

14 Days in Sri Lanka: Lush Lands and Wildlife Corridors

App
Lonely Planet App on a phone
Brand New!

Get the Lonely Planet App

World Nomads travel insurance
Trusted Partner

Dreaming of Yala National Park? Protect your trip

Travel with confidence. Protect your trip and your wallet.

We don’t represent World Nomads, we receive a fee from quotes using this link. This is not a recommendation to buy travel insurance.

Book your Sri Lanka trip with Lonely Planet Journeys

See Sri Lanka how it's meant to be seen

Planned by local experts and tailored to you, Lonely Planet Journeys handles the logistics so you can just enjoy the trip. Tell us what you want and we'll build your Sri Lanka itinerary from scratch, or browse our bookable trips to get inspired.

in partnership with getyourguide

Book popular activities in Yala National Park

Lonely Planet may earn a commission from affiliate links on our site. All recommendations and reviews reflect our own independent opinions.