Minneriya National Park

The Minneriya National Park is just one of the iconic nature reserves located near Sigiriya that provides spectacular safari experiences. During the dry season from August to September, around 300 Sri Lankan elephants converge at the watering holes in Minneriya to feed off the grass that grows there. Aptly called ‘The Gathering’, this phenomenon is believed to be the largest of its kind in the world.

The park is also famed for diverse and endemic animal species that thrive within its lush foliage. Animals known to dwell in the park are the Sri Lankan sloth bear, the Sri Lankan leopard, and the common Sri Lankan sambar deer. The park is home to several bird species, which makes bird watching a great activity to engage in here. You can also witness the habitats of other mammals, reptiles and amphibians.

Regardless of whether you come here only for ‘The Gathering’, or for the endemic flora and fauna, you will definitely enjoy a safari experience within the Minneriya National Park.