Sri Lanka is an island of contrasts. Ancient sites and golden beaches, urban landscapes and natural wilderness all contribute to making this the resplendent isle. For wildlife enthusiasts and nature conservationists there is an abundance of Wildlife parks and nature reserves from which to enjoy all that nature has to offer. In the south of Sri Lanka, the Yala National Park, which is considered one of the best wildlife destinations in Asia, is a frequent Safari favourite due to its high density in leopards.
The island is home to a wide range of rich and absorbing wildlife, including Sri Lanka’s big five: the Elephant, Leopard, Sloth Bear, Blue Whale, and the Sperm Whale. Our forests are a treasure trove of bird species and Sri Lanka is among the countries that possess the highest endemism in the world.
The Central Highlands rise to over 2,500m above sea level with damp evergreen forests, cool uplands and high rainfall. Within 100kms there are the dry coastal plains and sandy beaches. Nowhere else in the world, would you be able to even dream of seeing the world’s largest sea mammal the Blue Whale in the morning and later sight the largest land mammal the Sri Lankan Elephant, in the evening.
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The Uda Walawe National Park has the reputation of being one of the best places in the country to spot elephants. With nearly 600 elephants in the park as well as crocodiles, buffaloes, deer and snakes it is certainly worth the journey.
Kumana in the south-east is the leading bird sanctuary in the country with a total of 255 species of birds from the Black Necked storks to Eurasian spoonbills.
The awe-inspiring Horton Plains National Park is on the highest plateau in the island and home to a diverse array of wildlife as well as beautiful scenery.
The country has also been recognized as a valuable location for wildlife conservation with Anawilundawa Bird Sanctuary being named the 2nd RAMSAR wetland site in Sri Lanka and the Sinharaja Rainforest a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Biosphere Reserve.
