Minneriya National Park

Minneriya National Park

Minneriya National Park is one of the best places in the country to see wild elephants, which are often present in huge numbers. This national park is located 182 km away from Colombo, in the North Central Plains of Sri Lanka. The area was designated as a national park on 12 August 1997, having been originally declared as a wildlife sanctuary in 1938. The reason for declaring the area as protected is to protect the catchment of Minneriya tank and the wildlife of the surrounding area.

The tank is of historical importance, having been built by King Mahasen in third century AD. The park is a dry season feeding ground for the elephant population dwelling in forests of Matale, Polonnaruwa, and Trincomalee districts. This tremendous place could nestle over 24 species of mammals and 170 species of birds have been recorded in here. Not even that this amazing place recorded over 25 species of reptiles in here. Not even elephants, Leopards are other animals can sight in here. Visiting Minneriya National Park is one of more tremendous and amazing experience for the guests. Also, it is the best place for wild photography because can reach amazing moments.