Best Places to See Leopards in Sri Lanka

a Sri Lankan Leopard on a Tree in Yala National Park

Are you looking for the for the best places to see leopards in Sri Lanka? If yes, here is the guide you must read until the end.

Sri Lanka is a beautiful island in the Indian Ocean with rich and amazing wildlife. There, you can see many national parks on this tiny island with abundant wild animals. One of the coolest animals here is the Sri Lankan leopard (Panthera pardus kotiya), a solitary hunter with a spotted coat. Seeing a leopard in the wild is something you’ll never forget, and Sri Lanka has several national parks where these big cats roam free.

This guide will tell you the best places to see leopards in Sri Lanka, perfect for tourists who want to catch a glimpse of these amazing creatures.

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1) Yala National Park: The Top Spot to See Leopards in Sri Lanka

Yala National Park is the king when it comes to finding best places to see leopards in Sri Lanka. It is also the second-largest national park in Sri Lanka, and it is located in the southern province of the island. Nicknamed “the land of the leopard,” Yala has the most leopards of any place on Earth! The park has different landscapes, from dry scrubland to green forests, giving leopards a great place to live. Experts say there are 60–70 leopards in Yala, so you have a good chance of seeing one. You can go on jeep safaris with experienced guides who know the park’s five sections. Block 1 is especially famous for leopard sightings. Yala is also full of other wildlife, like elephants, sloth bears, crocodiles, and many kinds of birds.

Best time for leopard safaris in Yala: May to September, during the dry season. The fewer plants there are, the easier it is to spot these shy cats.

Read more about: Safari to Yala National Park

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2) Wilpattu National Park: Leopards of the Land of Lakes

Wilpattu National Park, on Sri Lanka’s northwest coast, is another amazing place to see leopards in Sri Lanka. It is the largest national park in Sri Lanka. Unlike Yala’s many landscapes, Wilpattu has big, open plains with lots of lakes (Wilpattu means “land of the lakes” in Sinhala). These lakes and seasonal wetlands make a perfect hunting ground for leopards. Leopards aren’t quite as common here as in Yala, but Wilpattu offers a different kind of safari experience. Wilpattu has the most leopards per square kilometer in Sri Lanka, so any sighting is special. You can also see elephants, sloth bears, and cool birds like pelicans and flamingos here.

Best time for leopard safaris in Wilpattu: May to September, during the dry season.

Read more: Safari to Wilpattu National Park

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3) Secret Leopard Spots: Beyond the Usual Parks

Sri Lanka has more parks than just Yala and Wilpattu where you can see leopards, although they might be harder to find. Here are two hidden gems to try:

  • Horton Plains National Park: Up in the mountains in central Sri Lanka, Horton Plains National Park is famous for its breathtaking views, like World’s End, a cliff with an amazing view. Most people wouldn’t think of leopards here, but this park gives them a quiet place to live at higher altitudes. With a good guide on a jeep safari or hike, you might just spot a leopard in the lush green mountains.

  • Kaudulla National Park: This park in north-central Sri Lanka is a paradise for wildlife lovers. The grasslands and scattered lakes here create a perfect home for leopards. While sightings aren’t as frequent as in Yala or Wilpattu, Kaudulla offers a peaceful and less crowded safari experience. You might also see elephants, wild boars, and many kinds of birds here.

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Tips for the Best Leopard Safari

  • Timing is everything: The dry season in Sri Lanka, from May to September, is the best time to see leopards. There are fewer plants then, making it easier to spot these shy cats.
  • Go with a guide: An experienced guide is your best friend on a safari. They know the park’s layout and how animals behave, which greatly increases your chances of seeing a leopard.
  • Respect the wild: Remember, you’re a visitor in the leopard’s home. Stay at a safe distance, don’t make loud noises, and only use flash photography with permission.

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See a Sri Lankan Leopard: An Unforgettable Adventure

Seeing a Sri Lankan leopard in its natural habitat is a memory that will last a lifetime. Whether you see a majestic male leopard checking its territory or a mother leopard caring for her cubs, the sight is sure to amaze you. So pack your bags, pick your favorite national park, and get ready for a thrilling leopard safari in Sri Lanka!

If you need to plan a safari to see Sri Lankan leopards, then contact Mahaweli Tours and Holidays. As a leading tour agency on the island, we are here to fulfill your requirements.

call/whatsapp: +94777 111553 or email: info@mahaweli.lk

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(Cover image Credit: Dinupa De Silva)

Discovering the Wonders of Negombo Lagoon: A Sri Lankan Oasis

Embark on a scenic voyage through Negombo Lagoon, a captivating haven between bustling Negombo town and the azure Indian Ocean. Spanning 35 square kilometers, this estuarine gem invites adventurers and nature enthusiasts to explore its serene waters, rich biodiversity, and cultural tapestry. Whether you seek thrilling boat rides, wildlife encounters, or a glimpse into traditional fishing communities, Negombo Lagoon promises a special experience.

 

Embarking on a Scenic Voyage

Glide on traditional wooden boats, feeling the gentle breeze amid lush mangrove forests. Witness exotic birds like herons, egrets, and kingfishers. Keep an eye out for playful otters, water monitors, and crocodiles on the muddy shores. Boat tours navigate through fishing villages, offering insights into age-old traditions.

 

Diving into the Thrilling Realm of Negombo Lagoon’s Wildlife

A haven for diverse creatures, Negombo Lagoon hosts migratory birds, including flamingos. Encounter mugger crocodiles in mangroves and dolphins frolicking in open waters. Explore bird sanctuaries during boat tours, witnessing conservation efforts for these feathered wonders.

 

Experiencing the Pulse of Fishing Villages

Immerse yourself in the lives of skilled fishermen. Visit bustling fish markets, taste fresh seafood, and learn unique fishing techniques. Witness traditional “katumaram” boats sailing at dawn, a captivating sight reflecting the area’s vibrant culture.

 

Unwinding in Tranquility 

Beyond excitement, Negombo Lagoon offers moments of serene peace. Enjoy a boat ride under the warm sun, indulge in a picnic on a deserted island, and witness a breathtaking sunset. Let the serenity linger, creating memories of nature’s wonders.

 

Planning Your Adventure

Easily accessible from Colombo and Bandaranaike International Airport, Negombo Lagoon offers various boat tours catering to different budgets. Be a responsible tourist, respecting the local environment and culture. Pack your bags for an unforgettable Sri Lankan adventure at Negombo Lagoon.

Walawe River Safari: A Journey into Southern Sri Lanka’s Natural Splendor

Walawe River Safari

Embark on an unforgettable adventure with the Walawe River Safari, a captivating boat tour that winds its way through the picturesque landscapes of the southern province of Sri Lanka. This immersive experience is renowned for its diverse wildlife, breathtaking scenery, and community-driven tourism initiatives.

 

What Awaits You:

As you navigate the gentle waters of the Walawe River, a panorama of nature unfolds before your eyes. Encounter an array of wildlife, from playful monkeys and elusive crocodiles to serene water buffaloes. The skies come alive with the fluttering wings of eagles, herons, kingfishers, and the majestic display of peacocks. The riverbanks are adorned with lush vegetation, featuring mangroves, tropical trees, and the intricate nests of various bird species.

 

Essential Tour Details:

  • Duration: Approximately 1.5 hours.
  • Timings: Safaris operate from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with the early morning and evening slots offering optimal wildlife viewing.
  • Location: Typically starting from Ambalantota in the Hambantota district, some operators in Tangalle may provide convenient pick-up and drop-off services.
  • Price: Prices range from Rs. 2500-3500 per person for a standard boat ride, varying among operators and packages.
  • Special Offerings: Tailor your experience with options like extended safaris, wildlife photography tours, or engaging cultural interactions with local communities.

 

Practical Tips:

  • Be prepared for a slightly bumpy ride, especially if the river is choppy.
  • Sun protection and insect repellent are advisable, particularly in the afternoon.
  • Dress comfortably, wearing attire that can withstand a splash or two.
  • Consider bringing binoculars for an enhanced birdwatching experience.
  • Show respect for the wildlife and the local environment, adhering to responsible tourism practices.

 

Additional Insights:

The allure of the Walawe River Safari extends beyond the diverse fauna and captivating landscapes. Birdwatchers will delight in the sightings of herons, kingfishers, eagles, parrots, and the intriguing nests of weaver birds. The journey also unveils the scenic meeting point where the river gracefully merges with the ocean, offering breathtaking views, especially during the enchanting evenings.

The biodiversity of the area is astounding, housing 52 fish species, 72 bird species, 28 mammal species, and 38 varieties of plants and trees. The presence of monkeys adds an extra layer of uniqueness to this immersive experience.

Operating from dawn till dusk, the Walawe River Safari recommends early morning or evening slots for the best encounters with wildlife. Witness the skies painted with the hues of sunset as birds flock in preparation for the night, creating a spectacle that lingers in your memory.

Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a wildlife lover, or someone seeking a peaceful escape, the Walawe River Safari promises an enriching journey into the heart of Southern Sri Lanka’s natural wonders.

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(Cover Image Credit: Walawe HN River Safari from FB)

Ridiyagama Safari Park: A Wildlife Odyssey in Sri Lanka’s Southern Gem

Nestled in the southern reaches of Sri Lanka, the Ridiyagama Safari Park emerges as a wildlife haven, captivating visitors with its diverse ecosystems and the enchanting beauty of the island’s flora and fauna. Located near the historic town of Hambantota, this safari park unfolds as a testament to Sri Lanka’s commitment to wildlife conservation and eco-tourism.

 

A Gateway to Wilderness:

Ridiyagama Safari Park, sprawling across acres of natural landscapes, serves as a gateway to the wilderness that defines the southern regions of the island. Opened to the public in 2016, the park swiftly became a prominent destination for those seeking an immersive and ethical safari experience.

 

The Majestic Fauna:

One of the key draws of Ridiyagama Safari Park is its impressive array of wildlife. The park is home to a variety of species, both endemic and exotic. Elephants, majestic and gentle giants, roam freely in expansive enclosures, allowing visitors to witness these creatures in a setting that closely mimics their natural habitat. The park also houses a collection of captivating species, including leopards, deer, giraffes, zebras, and many more.

 

Avian Wonders:

For bird enthusiasts, Ridiyagama Safari Park is a paradise. The park boasts a vibrant avian population, with numerous species of birds gracing the skies and trees. From colorful parrots to stately peafowls, the air resonates with the melodies of these winged inhabitants.

 

Eco-Friendly Safari Experience:

Ridiyagama Safari Park places a strong emphasis on eco-friendly practices, ensuring that the well-being of the animals is prioritized. The park’s design incorporates natural features, providing a more holistic and enriching experience for both wildlife and visitors. Safari tours are conducted with the utmost respect for the animals’ natural behaviors, allowing guests to observe them in a setting that prioritizes their comfort and freedom.

 

Conservation and Education:

Beyond providing a thrilling safari experience, Ridiyagama Safari Park actively engages in conservation efforts and educational programs. Visitors have the opportunity to learn about wildlife conservation, environmental sustainability, and the importance of preserving natural habitats. The park’s initiatives contribute to raising awareness about the delicate balance between humans and the animal kingdom.

 

Safari Options and Adventure:

Ridiyagama Safari Park offers various safari options, allowing visitors to choose the experience that suits their preferences. Safari jeep rides provide an up-close encounter with the wildlife, while guided tours offer valuable insights into the behaviors and habitats of the park’s inhabitants. The adventure extends beyond the safaris, with walking trails and picnic spots inviting visitors to connect more intimately with nature.

 

Cultural Integration:

The park seamlessly integrates Sri Lanka’s rich cultural tapestry into the safari experience. The thematic designs of enclosures and the overall park layout often reflect elements of the island’s heritage, providing a unique blend of wildlife exploration and cultural immersion.

 

Accessibility and Visitor Facilities:

Ridiyagama Safari Park’s strategic location in Hambantota ensures accessibility for both local and international visitors. The park is well-equipped with visitor facilities, including information centers, rest areas, and dining options, enhancing the overall safari experience.

 

Conclusion:

In essence, Ridiyagama Safari Park stands as a testament to Sri Lanka’s dedication to wildlife conservation and sustainable tourism. It beckons visitors to embark on a journey of discovery, where the thrill of encountering majestic creatures harmonizes with the principles of ethical and eco-friendly tourism. As the sun sets over the picturesque landscapes of the southern horizon, Ridiyagama Safari Park invites all to witness the enchanting beauty of Sri Lanka’s wildlife in a setting that reflects the island’s commitment to preserving its natural treasures.

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(Cover Image Credit: Dilshan Randika from Facebook)

Minneriya Safari Tour

Minneriya Safari Tour

A Day with Elephants, Safari Tour at Minneriya

Minneriya is one of the most admired national parks in Sri Lanka. Our Minneriya safari tour is a private tour that is uniquely designed to give you an astounding safari experience in Sri Lanka. You or/and your group will be accommodated comfortably in a vehicle according to the size of the group, and we will be providing a well-informed guide to take you through the safari. Language-specific guides can be arranged on request as we are well equipped with excellent tour guides. You will be given a brief overview of the country and the Minneriya safari tour.

About Minneriya National Park

Minneriya is ideal for all nature lovers to spend some quality time in the wilderness, witnessing the marvelous miracles of nature. It is a world-renowned wildlife spot where people from all over the globe come to see it. It is indeed an experience worth having! Between July and September, Minneriya holds one of the largest gatherings of elephants, numbering over 300 in number.

Minneriya National Park is situated in the North Central Province of Sri Lanka and is full of mighty elephants enjoying the tropical nature while breathing all the fresh air from the Minneriya Reservoir. The tour includes a safari ride across the park, with an extensive idea of the park and its elephants. Even though the elephants take most of the focus, Minneriya is home to numerous endemic animal species. The park has over 160 kinds of birds, endemic sloth bears, leopards, and many more! We make certain that you receive the best service possible by informing you about wildlife in Sri Lanka and how it is protected.

Sri Lanka is one of the most blessed islands in the whole world in terms of nature, animals, and weather. Nature has covered and protected Minneriya. Your queries regarding elephants and other animals that have occupied the park will be answered by our excellent tour guides. Minneriya is protected by the Wildlife Reserve because of its countless animals and trees. The park oversees the largest reservoir to be built by King Mahasena in the 3rd Century AD.

Watching these mighty, yet gentle elephants is a must-see as they interact with their own kind so beautifully and wander on the soil of Sri Lanka. You will see them spending time on the water, mothers washing their sons and enjoying their company. It is amazing to see what they do as animals in such harmony. Because of its forest-covered atmosphere, the cooling breeze goes back and forth throughout the day, and it makes the safari even more relaxing.

One of the best!

For those of you who need to experience the wildlife at its best, the Minneriya Safari Tour is the best of choices! Your safari will be a memory to cherish all your life. It is also very informative and interesting. Come and enjoy the bountiful Safari Tour at Minneriya with us, experiencing the largest gathering of elephants in the whole of Asia. You will be surprised! Make sure to take as many pictures as you can, so you can later see what a wonder it really is.

Minneriya Safari Tour with Mahaweli Tours & Holidays

Possible Starting / Pick-up Locations :
Colombo, Negombo, Sigiriya, Dambulla, Kandy, Polonaruwa, Anuradhapura, Trincomalee, Nilaveli, Pasikudah  (You can let us know your exact location for us to check and confirm the possibility)

Duration : Safari Tour will take around 3 ½ on average.

Tour Type : A private tour. Vehicle and the Guide / Chauffer guide are dedicated to you / your group. Minneriya safari tour will be done by an off road vehicle and traveling to the starting point and back will be done by Comfortable Car / Van / Mini coach.

(Featured Image Credit: Chathura Buddhika)

Safari Tour at Yala National Park

Yala Safari Tour Highlight in Sri Lanka

Yala Safari Tour will take you on a thrilling wildlife adventure in Sri Lanka!

Are you an adventurous person who loves to travel? or are you a person who admires nature? Yala Safari Tour will fulfill all of these requirements.

This Yala Safari Tour is particularly designed to provide the best safari experience to our clients. You will be accompanied by our well-knowledgeable guides who are proficient in English. If you require language-specific guides, that can be arranged upon request. You will get an unforgettable experience in the wilderness while breathing in the freshest air from the forest around.

 

About Yala National Park

Yala National Park is an enormous area of lush forests, green pastures, and scattered pools bordering the Ocean. Out of all the national parks in Sri Lanka, Yala is one of the biggest and most condensed ones. It is full of everything Sri Lanka’s nature has to offer.

Geographical location and history of Yala National Park

Yala National Park is situated in the Southeast part of Sri Lanka, neighboring an ancient Buddhist Monastery and old rock painting. This is an added advantage for its value and it adds depth to its history. It is surrounded by pilgrimages and brings a lot of devotees to the site, apart from the tourists. The endless flora and fauna on the premises are astounding and it is very pleasant to the eye to see the coordination between animals and trees. Nature is wonderful!

One of the biggest wildlife sanctuaries

Yala is a huge area of forest and wildlife on one soil. It is considered one of the world-renowned national parks because of its diversity. The area is filled with numerous species of animals and trees. The park also has lakes, streams, and lagoons. It is home to most of the species on the entire island. Yala has been admired and loved by locals and foreigners from the beginning of time. The greatest attraction of the premises is the animals in their natural element.

If you are up to challenging, adventurous, yet satisfying visitations, Yala is a must-go. It will allow you a lifetime to embrace everything the island offers in one tour. Come and marvel at the elephants bathing in the lakes and streams with their babies, breathe the lung-refreshing air, be amazed at the leopards, listen to the endless singing of the birds, and many more. It is indeed a treat of a lifetime.

 

Come and experience this unforgettable Safari Tour to Yala National Park

For your entire globetrotter who loves adventures, this Yala Safari Tour will give you one of the best memories to cherish. It is nothing but pure tranquility and peace from nature. If you are someone who inhales nature and admires its miraculous wonders, Yala has it all! Make sure to come with your cameras because you won’t want to miss out on peacocks dancing, herds of elephants wandering, leopards hiding behind bushes, sloth bear waiting for prey, and the pure breeze of nature. Click as many pictures and selfies as you want because Yala Safari Tour will be the most highlighted destination of your entire itinerary. You will not be disappointed. All you ever wanted to see in the wilderness will be displayed in their best element.

Grab your smartphones, cameras, and water bottles, and get ready for this amazing tour with us to one of the most beloved national parks on the island!

 

Yala Safari Tour by Mahaweli Tours & Holidays

Possible Starting / Pick-up Locations :
Yala, Thissamaharama, Galle, Matara, Tangalle, Dikwella, Mirissa, Unawatuna, Udawalawa, Ella, Badulla, Bandarawela, Haputhale, Arugambay

Duration: Our Yala safari tour will take around 3 ½ on average.

Tour Type: A private tour. Vehicle and the Guide / Chauffer guide are dedicated to you / your group. The Yala safari tour will be done by an off-road vehicle and traveling to the starting point and back will be done by a Comfortable Car / Van / Mini coach.

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Read More about our other wildlife tours;

Wilpattu Safari Tour

Wasgamuwa National Park Safari Tour

 

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(Yala Safari Caver Image Credit: Pip Jones from Twitter)

Madulsima Mini Worlds End

Madulsima Mini Worlds End Sri Lanka

The Madulsima Mini Worlds End is a fabulous place to visit in the Badulla District. It is situated in the Madulsima area at an elevation of 1357m. The place has recently become popular among many local travelers. But it is an unknown place for most. You can observe a large portion of the eastern province from here. The view is absolutely mind-blowing, and it is fantastic for a photographer.

Location

Madulsima Mini Worlds End is situated in the village of Pitamaruwa. It is a small village which is situated 60km away from Badulla City. The distance to the place from Passara is 42km and from Madulsima, a small town, is 18km. Anyhow, the location is 290km away from the capital, Colombo.

Public transport is available to the Madulsima from Passara or Badulla. But it is perfect if you can use a private vehicle. Road conditions are poor in some parts. Therefore, it’s better if you can also use a 4-wheel vehicle or a bike. The surroundings of the route are very scenic with the greenish tea plantations. That will add additional beauty to your trip. The last part of the trip should be done by foot.

More facts about Madulsima Mini Worlds End

The mini worlds end is situated on the edge of the Roeberry Tea Estate. However, it is managed by the tourist board of the Uva Province. You are allowed to go camping in the area. But you should also consider the heavy wind. The panoramic view will definitely amaze anyone. Such a fantastic place to fly a drone and observe it from a bird’s-eye view.

The fog will cover the place on most occasions. The average temperature is around 18 °C and the annual rainfall is around 2000 mm. You should consider the weather before you go here. This is another place rich in leaches. So, please bring leech protection.

What can you observe from the Madulsima Mini Worlds End ?

The morning picture is wonderful with the sunrise. You can see clouds under you in most of the early mornings. The view is clear if the mist doesn’t affect it.

Mahiyangana, Sorabora Wewa, Senanayaka Tank, Ampara, Bibile, Kokagala, Mahaoya, Monaragala, etc. are some of the clearly visible places.

Final Words

Madulsima Mini Worlds End is a nice place to visit in Badulla. You can observe a beautiful picture from there. Aradunu Ella is a scenic waterfall you can go in the Pitamaruwa Village. DS Rock is another attractive mountain which you can observe during the trip.

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(Featured Image Credit: A w e s o m e from Facebook)

Safari Tour at Kumana National Park- Your best tropical dream!

Kumana National Park Safari

With natural beauty, ancient value and modern adventures, Sri Lanka is a finest destination in South Asia. Travelers can easily reach the island from any part of the world as it locates in the middle of the Indian Ocean and it is well known as Pearl of the Indian Ocean. 

If you are a lover of safari tours, there are many places to visit in Sri Lanka. Yala National park, Wilpaththu, Udawalawa and Kumana are some of them. 

The Background Story

Kumana National Park is the most popular bird sanctuary in Sri Lanka and it is located in southeast coastal line in Sri Lanka. Actually, it is a part of Yala National park and earlier it was known as Yala East National Park.

The park has an ancient historical value also that it becomes a part of an ancient civilization belonged to 3rd century BC. When we consider the most recent history, it was closed from 1985 to 2003 due to the civil war in Sri Lanka. Not only was that but the park affected by Tsunami also in December 2004

Things to do

As a huge national park and there are plenty of wilderness and natural beauty, Safari tour at Kumana National park is the ideal option to do. However, you may wonder what is the best season to visit there? As there is no hard a strict rule to visit that this is the best month, you should be careful on the rainy season. It will disturb your entertainment and you may miss the beauty of wildlife. Therefore February to July is the best time to visit. From April to July you can watch many species of birds that they are nesting and breeding during this period. 

There is a private safari tour dedicated to you or your group where will be allocating a comfortable vehicle depending on the size of the group. Accordingly, you can enjoy Wildlife safari, Full day safari, Private safari or a Jeep safari. You can decide the time of your safari whether it is morning or afternoon depending on what types of animals and birds you need to watch.

Only thing you should do is book your tour in advance. It is better to accompanied by a guide also, because there are several obstacles in the park. More tricky roads may confuse you and without the knowledge and experience of them, you may not spot the birds and animals as you wish. 

You can see birds like pintail snipes waterfowl and wading birds, storks, moorhens, ducks, and ibis. During the nesting season, they migrate from all over the world. Therefore bird watching is a major activity. At the same time, this is a home for turtle, otters, crocodiles, elephants, wild boars, peacocks and many more species.

There are few camping sites are also available in the park. 

During your visit to this place always be quiet and patient to enjoy the maximum and for the safety, because you are entering a world of wildness. And do not forget your camera.  

Kumana National Park Safari with Mahaweli Tours & Holidays

Possible Starting / Pick-up Locations:
Arugambay, Ella, Thissamaharama, Udawalawa or any other nearby location. (You can let us know your exact location for us to check and confirm the possibility)

Duration: Safari Tour will take around 3 ½ on average.

Tour Type: A private tour. Vehicle and the Guide / Chauffer guide are dedicated to you / your group. Safari tour will be done by an off road vehicle and traveling to the starting point and back will be done by Comfortable Car / Van / Mini coach.

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Read More:

Ella City Tour with Mahaweli Tours & Holidays

(Kumana National Park Cover Image Credit: Surf Ali on Instagram)