Minneriya National Park
The amazing Minneriya National Park is renowned for its elephant populations and beautiful scenery. Enjoy a safari drive in search of the Asian elephant, a highlight for many during their tour through this fascinating teardrop isle.
Area
Ancient Cities
Type
Wildlife & Nature
Grade
Luxurious
Who
Adults
Teens
Difficulty
Moderate
Duration
Half Day
Minneriya National Park is situated in the North Central Province of Sri Lanka. The park affords the opportunity to sight herds of elephants throughout the year however August and September are the best time to view the famous gathering of the wild elephants, the largest known meeting place of Asian Elephants in the world. There are also monkeys, deer, and lots of different bird species.
As Minneriya is pretty much the only national park you can visit without having to stay there, it does mean it can get busy, and it also means the jeeps and guides are not as polished or professional as you may find in the other parks.
Recommended Hotels Nearby
A selection of luxury hotel options in the area, handpicked and recommended by our travel specialists.
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View AccommodationCinnamon Lodge
Cinnamon Lodge is a series of small chalet-style buildings dotted around a 27-acre wooded area and next to a lake. The two-storey chalets have recently been refurbished and the property is well-located for exploring the Cultural Triangle.
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View AccommodationRoo Mansala
A boutique retreat in Sigiriya’s Cultural Triangle with six personalized rooms, dramatic views of Sigiriya and Pidurangala, refined dining, and lush natural surroundings. Perfect for couples, culture lovers, and nature seekers alike.
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View AccommodationUga Ulagalla
Set in Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle, Uga Ulagalla blends restored heritage with contemporary and sweeping reservoir views, a serene sanctuary where culture, nature, and authentic experiences unfold at your pace.
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View AccommodationAliya Resort & Spa
Aliya Resort and Spa is a modern property with stunning views of the majestic Sigiriya Rock Fortress, one of the most important landmarks in the Cultural Triangle. Aliya is surrounded by greenery and the design is inspired by the Asian elephant.
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View AccommodationWater Garden Sigiriya
Water Garden Sigiriya is an oasis of natural beauty in the heart of The Cultural Triangle, inspired by the ancient water gardens of Sigiriya. Expect luxury in a very open and natural setting with the mountainous Sigiriya Rock Fortress as your backdrop.
More Experiences in This Area
Discover more things to do in the area and chat to our specialists about crafting these experiences into your tailor-made holiday.
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View ExperienceDambulla Buddhist Caves
Dambulla is an ancient historical site set on a large granite outcrop. The caves at Dambulla are famous for their temples and have been repainted several times in the 11th, 12th and 18th centuries with secular and Buddhist scenes.
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View ExperienceAnuradhapura Ancient City
Anuradhapura dates from the sixth century BC and is one of Buddhism's holiest sites, containing the 2,200 year old Sri Maha Bodhi tree, grown from a cutting of the Indian tree beneath which Buddha found Enlightenment.
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View Experience
Visit an Elephant Conservation Center and Guided Safari in Wasgamuwa National Park
A rewarding day which combines a safari exploring Wasgamuwa National Park, one of Sri Lanka’s most ancient forests, and a visit to a conservation center specializing in reducing human-elephant conflict.
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View ExperienceSinhalese Village and Farm Experience
Slow down and immerse yourself in the traditional rural Sinhalese way of life near Habarana. Accompanied by a farmer, spend time learning about paddy cultivation, watch birdlife on a lake and enjoy a multi-course home cooked lunch in a family home.
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View ExperiencePolonnaruwa Ancient City
The ancient city of Polonnaruwa dates from the 10th century AD. Originally planned as an expression and statement of imperial power, the city was eventually abandoned in 1288. Many of the remains are still in excellent condition.
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View ExperienceA Community Beekeeping Experience
Step beyond Sri Lanka’s well-trodden paths with Buzz & Bloom, a community-led experience near Anuradhapura that offers an authentic glimpse into rural village life. Meet the inspiring women transforming their futures through ethical beekeeping.
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View ExperienceSigiriya Rock
The Sigiriya rock rises majestically from the jungle floor. It is famous for its ‘mirror wall’, so called because of its highly polished surface. Half-way up there are galleries with frescoes in brilliant tempera. Sigirya dates from the 5th century AD.
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View ExperienceSpiritual journey with Hermit Monks
Enjoy an insider's tour of the birthplace of Buddhism and engage in meaningful interactions with a resident monk, and conclude with experiencing herbal tea and traditional snacks.
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View ExperienceSafari Jeep to Minneriya National Park
Enjoy a jeep safari to Minneriya Nataional Park , famous for its wild elephants.
Call us on 212 372 7009 to start planning