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Located in the heart of Sri Lanka, Minneriya National Park spans over 8,800 hectares. The lush forests, wetlands, and grasslands are home to diverse flora and fauna. The park is famous for “The Gathering,” a seasonal congregation of wild elephants. It is an awe-inspiring wildlife spectacle to witness, especially around sunset. All this makes it a favourite and worthwhile destination for travellers exploring the wilderness of Sri Lanka. Let’s explore the wonders of Minneriya Park and discover how to make the most of your visit.
Location
Photo: Madhawa Dunuwila / Wikimedia Commons
Minneriya Park is situated in the North Central Province of Sri Lanka, about 182 kilometres northeast of Colombo. Nestled between the ancient cities of Polonnaruwa and Sigiriya, the park forms a part of the famed Elephant Corridor, along with Kaudulla and Wasgamuwa parks.
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How To Reach Minneriya National Park
Photo:Saqib Qayyum / Wikimedia Commons
Reaching Minneriya Park is relatively straightforward, with multiple options at hand. Visitors can get to the city by road, rail, and air from Colombo.
By Air: The nearest airport is Sigiriya Airport, which is 20 km away. However, if you are an international tourist outside Sri Lanka, you can fly into Colombo International Airport and then drive approximately 4 hours to the park.
By Train: The nearest railway station is in Habarana, the closest town to the park. You can hire a taxi or tuk-tuk for the remaining 7.5 kilometres to the park.
By Road: If you travel from Colombo, the easiest way is by car or taxi, which takes around 4 to 5 hours through the scenic routes along the A1 and A6 highways. Buses are also conveniently available from the major cities such as Colombo, Kandy and Trincomalee.
Places to Visit Around Minneriya National Park
The Minneriya National Park is a scenic destination popular among tourists and locals. Read on to find places to visit in and around Minneriya Park:
1. Sigiriya Rock Fortress (Lion Rock)
Photo:Sahan177 / Wikimedia Commons
Sigiriya is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Sri Lanka’s most iconic landmarks. Believed to be built by King Kasyapa in the 5th century, the ancient rock fortress rises 200 metres above the surrounding jungle. Visitors can climb to the top to enjoy the stunning panoramic landscape views. The beautiful gardens and frescoes in the vicinity add to the place’s charm. Another key attraction is the famous Lion’s Gate, which once stood as a massive stone lion symbol of the king’s power.
Timings: 5 am – 5 pm
Distance: 16 km from Minneriya Park
Entry Fee: LKR 11000
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2. Polonnaruwa
Photo:Simon Frost / Wikimedia Commons
Polonnaruwa is a historic city and another UNESCO World Heritage Site. It served as the capital of Sri Lanka from the 11th to the 13th century. The city has many archaeological treasures, such as the Royal Palace and the Quadrangle, with stunning temples. Another key attraction is the Gal Vihara, a rock temple featuring impressive Buddha statues. Visitors to Polonnaruwa get a fascinating glimpse into Sri Lanka’s rich history and cultural heritage by exploring these ancient monuments.
Timings: NA
Distance: 27 km from Minneriya Park
Entry Fee: NA
3. Kaudulla National Park
Photo: KR Chrutti / Wikimedia Commons
Located near Minneriya, Kaudulla National Park is another fantastic destination for wildlife enthusiasts. Much like Minneriya, Kaudulla is also known for its large elephant population. The park is also home to various other animals, such as deer, wild boar, and several bird species. Visitors often flock here to spot the wide range of wildlife, especially during the dry season when the animals gather around the Kaudulla Tank.
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Distance: 6 km from Minneriya Park
Entry Fee: LKR 6000 for adults, LKR 4500 for children
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4. Dambulla Cave Temple
Photo:Kaushiru90 / Wikimedia Commons
The Dambulla Cave Temple is another UNESCO World Heritage Site you should visit if you visit Minneriya. Also known as the Golden Temple of Dambulla consists of five caves lined with stunning Buddha statues, murals, and religious artefacts. Perched on a hill, the temple provides breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. Visitors can marvel at the intricate cave paintings and Buddha statues within this UNESCO World Heritage Site. The spiritual significance, combined with the enigmatic aura of the caves, makes Dambulla a charming destination.
Timings: 7 AM – 7 PM
Distance: 29 km from Minneriya Park
Entry Fee: LKR 1500 for adults, LKR 750 for children
5. Ritigala Forest and Monastery
Photo:Wanni / Wikimedia Commons
Ritigala Monastery is an ancient Buddhist monastery nestled in the dense forests of the Ritigala Mountain. Ritigala is the highest mountain in northern Sri Lanka at 766 metres above sea level. This gives the mountain a wet microclimate, contrasting the surrounding dry lowlands. Such unique climate makes it home to a diverse range of flora and fauna and an important biodiversity hotspot. Visitors can explore the ruins of the monastery while walking along the stone pathways or enjoy the peaceful vibes of the place through meditation and reflection.
Timings: 6 am – 6 pm
Distance: 37 km from Minneriya Park
Entry Fee: LKR 1500 for adults from SAARC countries
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Where To Stay
Photo:Boonkong Boonpeng / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
There is a wide range of accommodation options near Minneriya Park, from eco-resorts to budget-friendly guesthouses. Habarana is the most famous town for staying near the Minneriya Park, and the cities of Sigiriya and Polonnaruwa are also located nearby. Cinnamon Lodge and Habarana Village are great options for a luxury experience near the park. Sorowwa Resort & Spa and Habarana Eco Treehouse are good mid-range choices, whereas budget travellers can opt for cosy guesthouses like Sevanagama or Joes Habarana Village.
Where To Eat
Photo:Bawva / Wikimedia Commons
Habarana is the best city for ample eating options around Minneriya National Park. If you stay at a high-end resort, the in-house restaurants usually provide delicious buffets with a well-balanced mix of local and international dishes. Other regional eateries also serve authentic Sri Lankan cuisine, such as rice, curry, hoppers, and seafood.
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Best Time To Visit
Photo:Harshadewa Ariyasinghe / Wikimedia Commons
The best time to visit Minneriya Park is during the dry season, from May to October. The dry season also makes it easier to spot other wildlife as the animals gather around the water holes. The timings of the Minneriya Park are from 6 am to 6.30 pm; however, the best time for wildlife spotting is around sunrise and sunset.
Other Things To Consider
Photo:Yaroslav Shuraev / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Average Cost Of The Trip
The park’s entry fee is LKR 4500 per person for adults and LKR 2500 for children. Safari Jeeps can be hired at LKR 9000-15000 for a half-day tour and shared among six people. Accommodations are priced anywhere between LKR 6000-15000 per night, depending on the type of stay. Meals usually cost in the range of LKR 1500-6000 per meal. Overall, the estimated expense of a trip to Minneriya Park is LKR 30000-90000 per person for a two-day visit, including transportation, accommodation, park entry, and food.
Tips For The Travellers
- Maintaining a safe distance from animals and not feeding them.
- A knowledgeable guide can provide valuable insights into the park’s flora and fauna.
- To get a hassle-free experience, book a jeep safari in advance.
- Bring good cameras and binoculars along to enhance your chances of spotting wildlife.
- Light, breathable clothing in neutral colours is recommended. Avoid bright colours as they divert the attention of animals.
- Bring sunscreen, insect repellent, sunglasses, a hat, and plenty of water.
- The weather can be hot and humid, so staying hydrated is crucial.
- Take the necessary health precautions and carry basic first aid and personal medications.
- Always follow the park’s rules and guidelines to ensure your safety and harmony with the wildlife.
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Minneriya National Park in Sri Lanka allows visitors to connect with nature and witness some of the most impressive wildlife spectacles like “the gathering”. So pack your cameras and prepare to embark on an adventure like none other with TripXL and their expertise in curating the most memorable trips. Minneriya Park promises an unforgettable journey into Sri Lanka’s wild heart.
Cover Photo:Walter Gehr / Wikimedia Commons
