Minneriya National Park, Sri Lanka’s Elephant Gathering Haven in Minneriya

Minneriya National Park, located in the North Central Province of Sri Lanka, is renowned for its remarkable seasonal gathering of elephants and its diverse wildlife. Established in 1997, this 8,889-hectare park is centered around the Minneriya Tank, an ancient reservoir built by King Mahasen in the 3rd century AD. The park is particularly famous for the “Great Elephant Gathering” that occurs between July and October, when hundreds of elephants converge around the reservoir during the dry season. The park’s varied ecosystems, including grasslands, forested areas, and wetlands, support a rich array of flora and fauna, making it a popular destination for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers.

Highlights:

• Elephant Gathering: Witness the extraordinary spectacle of the Great Elephant Gathering, where large herds of elephants come together around the Minneriya Tank.
• Wildlife Viewing: Spot other wildlife species such as leopards, sloth bears, water buffalo, and numerous bird species in their natural habitats.
• Scenic Landscapes: Enjoy the park’s diverse landscapes, including wetlands, grasslands, and forested areas, which provide stunning backdrops for wildlife photography.
• Birdwatching: Observe a variety of bird species, including migratory birds, in the park’s diverse environments.

Location: North Central Province, Sri Lanka. Minneriya National Park is located about 180 kilometers (112 miles) from Colombo and approximately 30 kilometers (19 miles) from the town of Habarana, making it accessible by road and a popular destination for safaris and wildlife tours in Sri Lanka’s cultural triangle