Located in the scenic North Central Province of Sri Lanka, lies the captivating Minneriya National Park. This extraordinary landscape was officially declared a national park in August 1997, following its initial recognition as a wildlife sanctuary way back in 1938.

 

Today, Minneriya National Park stands as a vital dry season sanctuary for the majestic elephants inhabiting the forests of Matale, Polonnaruwa, and Trincomalee districts. Furthermore, this incredible park has earned the distinction of being one of Sri Lanka’s esteemed 70 Important Bird Areas (IBAs), highlighting its immense ecological importance. Located at a distance of approximately 182 kilometers (113 miles) from the bustling city of Colombo, Minneriya National Park awaits with its natural wonders and breathtaking beauty.

 

Spanning approximately 8,889 hectares, Minneriya National Park is one of the largest parks in Sri Lanka. Its diverse ecosystems, including dry mixed evergreen forests, grasslands, and wetlands, provide a home to a wide variety of plant and animal species. The park’s centerpiece is the Minneriya Tank, a vast reservoir built by King Mahasen in the 3rd century AD, which not only sustains the park’s wildlife but also adds to its scenic beauty.