Sri Lanka is a paradise for nature enthusiasts, offering lush rainforests, dry zone jungles, wetlands, and highland sanctuaries – all packed with rich biodiversity. If you’re planning to explore the island’s wild side, here are the top national parks in Sri Lanka that should be on your itinerary.

1. Yala National Park – Best for Leopards
Yala is the most visited national park in Sri Lanka and famous for having one of the highest leopard densities in the world. Alongside leopards, you’ll spot elephants, sloth bears, crocodiles, and an incredible variety of birds. Jeep safaris here are thrilling and full of surprises.
Location: Southeast coast
Highlight: Leopard sightings & coastal lagoons

2. Udawalawe National Park – Elephant Haven
If you’re dreaming of seeing elephants up close in the wild, Udawalawe is your go-to park. It’s home to hundreds of elephants, especially around the reservoir. The open grasslands also attract water buffalo, deer, jackals, and birds of prey.
Location: South-central
Highlight: Massive elephant herds year-round

3. Wilpattu National Park – The Land of Lakes
Wilpattu is Sri Lanka’s largest national park, known for its “villus” – natural sand-rimmed lakes. It’s less crowded than Yala, offering a more peaceful safari experience. You might spot leopards, sloth bears, and barking deer in this lush, mysterious forest.
Location: Northwest coast
Highlight: Remote wilderness and tranquil jeep safaris

4. Minneriya National Park – The Elephant Gathering
Each year, between July and September, Minneriya hosts “The Gathering” – the world’s largest meeting of Asian elephants. As dry season sets in, elephants from nearby forests migrate to the Minneriya Tank, offering an unforgettable spectacle.
Location: North Central Province
Highlight: Over 200 wild elephants in one place!

5. Horton Plains National Park – Misty Highlands
For scenic beauty and hiking, Horton Plains is unbeatable. Home to cloud forests, rare flora, and the dramatic World’s End cliff, this high-altitude park is ideal for those who enjoy walking trails and birdwatching.
Location: Central highlands
Highlight: World’s End viewpoint and Baker’s Falls

6. Bundala National Park – Birdwatcher’s Paradise
Bundala is a Ramsar Wetland and a haven for migratory birds. It’s the best place in Sri Lanka to see flamingos, storks, pelicans, and many water birds. You’ll also find crocodiles and elephants in the area’s lagoons and scrub forests.
Location: Southern coast
Highlight: Over 200 bird species including flamingos

7. Gal Oya National Park – Boat Safaris and Hidden Gems
Gal Oya is unique for offering boat safaris – a rare experience in Sri Lanka. Explore the Senanayake Samudraya reservoir and watch elephants swim between islands. It’s off the beaten path and ideal for adventurous souls.
Location: Eastern Sri Lanka
Highlight: Boat safaris and untouched wilderness