Sri Lanka is a wildlife lovers paradise and one of the best places in the world to see elephants, leopards and rare species in their natural habitats. If you’ve ever dreamed of seeing these magnificent creatures up close, you’re in for an exhilarating journey. Well, lets take a deep dive into the best locations to catch these creatures!
Where to See Elephants in Sri Lanka
If you want to see elephants wandering around freely, Sri Lanka is the place to be. Udawalawe National Park is one the best places to see these gentle giants. Hundreds of wild elephants live in this park, and virtually whenever you visit, you’re almost guaranteed a sighting. Whether you take a jeep safari at sun-up or late in the afternoon, watching elephants meandering right across the vast landscapes is a sight to behold.
Another wonderful place is Minneriya National Park, known for the annual “Gathering,” one of the largest congregation of wild elephants in the world. Every year, between July and October hundreds of elephants come to drink water and socialize at the Minneriya Tank. It’s a breathtaking experience that you’ll not want to miss!
For somewhere more off-the-beaten-track, visit Wasgamuwa National Park. Far less crowded than other parks, Wasgamuwa provides an uncrowded environment where you can see elephants without the hectic pace of tourist-filled safaris. There are sloth bears and various exotic birds unique to the park, so it is also one of the best national parks for nature lovers.
How to See Leopards in Sri Lanka
If seeing a leopard is on your wildlife bucket list, Sri Lanka is one of the best places in the world to tick it off. Your number one stop will be Yala National Park, which has the highest concentration of leopards in the world. Although leopards are notoriously shy, early morning and late evening safaris give you a better chance at spotting one slinking through the grass or draped over a tree branch.
Wilpattu National Park is another excellent option, with a series of dense forests and secluded watering holes. Unlike their Yala counterparts, in Wilpattu leopards are rather spread out, resulting in less frequent but equally rewarding sightings. With plenty of lakes and sandy tracks, this safari adds an extra bit of adventure to the traditional safari landscape.
If your preference is for a quieter experience, Horton Plains National Park provides a separate sort of leopard-spotting adventure. And, while the chances of spotting a yak are almost nonexistent, the high-altitude landscape and foggy atmosphere give the district an air of steep mystery. And read: Glimpses of other beguiling beasts, like sambar deer and purple-faced langurs, abound.
How to Find Rare & Endemic Species
Sri Lanka is teeming with unique wildlife, including some species that exist in just one other place in the world. Sinharaja Rainforest is a paradise for bird watchers. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to more than 20 endemic bird species, such as the Sri Lanka blue magpie and red-faced malkoha. It’s also home to elusive mammals, including the rusty-spotted cat, one of the world’s smallest wild cats.
If you’re interested in seeing rare primates, you can’t miss the adorable red slender loris in Dambana. These night-loving animals also feature huge, shining eyes, and move slowly and cautiously. As they are nocturnal, a guided night tour is your best opportunity to spot them.
A place of awe is Bundala National Park, an unspoiled paradise for wildlife lovers. It’s an oasis for migratory birds, but you’ll also see saltwater crocodiles, sea turtles and even elusive fishing cats prowling the wetlands. Whether it’s the species of animals, the terrain or the weather, every safari in the park is a box of surprises thanks to the park’s rich variety of ecosystems.
Final Thoughts
Sri lanka is a Wild life wonderland waiting to be discovered. Whether you are following elephants converge at a waterhole, tracking a leopard through the jungle or catching a rare bird through a misty rainforest, every experience is magical.” So put your camera and safari book on and get ready for an unforgettable experience in the jungle!
