Minneriya safari

By / August 9, 2024

Table of Contents

“Under the guidance of their mothers, thus, frisky baby elephants engage in mud and sand play, while other large jumbos graze and move into the pool of water in the park.” The preceding narrative illustrates a typical occurrence that may be encountered during a safari in Minneriya National Park. Thus, Minneriya National Park Safari offers an opportunity to observe untamed elephants in the midst of crumbling historical monuments. It is one of the most exceptional programs available for booking from Sigiriya and Dambulla.

Safaris in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka safaris have become the standard for the majority of travelers in Sri Lanka. Thus, Sri Lankan wildlife excursions have gained popularity among foreign travelers. A significant number of wildlife excursions are available in Sri Lanka, which boasts two dozen wildlife parks. Nevertheless, a handful of national parks, including Wilpattu, Minneriya, Yala National Park, and Udawalawe, have emerged as the most popular destinations for Sri Lanka safari excursions.

Safari in Minneriya National Park

Each and every day, a significant number of enthusiastic travelers gather at the entrance of Minneriya National Park to complete the necessary procedures prior to commencing their safari. The majority of them are tourists who are embarking on Sri Lankan tours, such as the five-day cultural triangle tour. The majority of visitors to the Cultural Triangle include a tour of Minneriya National Park in their itinerary, as the park is situated within the Cultural Triangle.

What is the rationale behind selecting the Minneriya national park safari?

Wildlife watching is one of the most poluar things to do in Sri Lanka. More than a dozen of National Parks In Sri Lanka such as minneriya are been used for waldlife tours in sri Lanka. There is no other wildlife reserve on the island that is more suitable for observing untamed elephants than Minneriya National Park. Minneriya National Park is home to a substantial number of wild elephants, which enables visitors to observe numerous wild jumbos and things to do during the safari. Thus, the safari is an excellent choice for travelers who are embarking on a cultural triangle tour of Sri Lanka to visit the ancient monuments. Visiting Minneriya National Park during the cultural triangle excursion is a highly convenient option due to its location in the heart of the Sri Lanka cultural triangle.

Vegetation of Minneriya National Park

The national park is primarily composed of trees, plants, and fissures that are part of the evergreen dry-zone forest. The forest contains a number of highly valuable and durable timbers, including Weera and palu. In Minneriya National Park, there is an extensive distribution of thrown bamboo, which is regarded as somewhat detrimental to the park due to its ability to impede the development of grass and plants beneath the bamboo. Thorn bamboo covers approximately 12% of the forest’s surface. The park administration conducts the clearing of these plants on an annual basis due to the rapid development of the forest.

Observing untamed elephants in Minneriya National Park

Elephant sightings are common at Minneriya Lake in Minneriya National Park because of the vast expanse of open grassland surrounding it. Elephants are most likely to be observed in the open area and Minneriya Lake in Minneriya National Park. Your safari driver is aware of this fact and will undoubtedly transport you to these locations. Each and every day, a significant number of untamed elephants congregate to obtain water and food in the grassland. In certain instances, hundreds of elephants congregate here and there, totaling over 300 elephants. The Sri Lankan rainforests are home to a substantial population of wild elephants. Previously, the wild elephant population was estimated to be around 5000. However, recent statistics from the Department of Wildlife indicate that the number of wild elephants will exceed 7,000 in 2022

What is the best time to visit the Minneriya National Park Safari?

I must inform you that the optimal time of year to visit a national park is the arid season. In order to graze on grass, the vast population of wild elephants, which number in the hundreds, congregates on the shore of Minneriya Lake. Thus, the lake experiences a significant decrease in water level during the dry season, which results in an increase in the availability of fertile land for the cultivation of vegetation. A significant number of untamed elephants and other grass-fed animals congregate to consume the fresh, tender grass as the grass surface expands around the lake.

Subsequently, you may be contemplating the potential consequences of the rainy season. During the monsoon season, the number of elephants in the national park decreases. The vegetation surface surrounding the lake is significantly depleted, making it difficult for wild animals, including elephants, to locate grass when it rains. Additionally, the lake captures additional land around its water surface. Consequently, the elephant primarily migrates to other national parks, such as Kaudulla, an eco-park, where it can consume grass and other foliage more easily.

Consequently, the optimal period for a safari in Minneriya National Park is from April to November, which coincides with the southwest monsoon. From October to January, the park is submerged in the Northeast monsoon. The forest is particularly difficult to traverse during this period due to the muddy surface, and there are not many untamed elephants to be observed.

What is the expense of a safari in Minneriya National Park?

The cost of a safari tour in Minneriya National Park is contingent upon the starting location of the tour. This is a result of the fluctuation in the expense of Jeep rental. If the safari commences in Minneriya, the tourist will be required to pay 9000 LKR. If it commences in a hotel in Sigiriya, the cost will be approximately 15000 LKR. Thus, the entrance fees to Minneriya National Park are comparable to those of other destinations, including Yala and Udawalawe, which is approximately.

The entrance fee to Minneriya National Park is contingent upon the number of individuals in the group, as indicated below:

  • $95.00 for one Adults
  • $150.00 for two Adults
  • $210.00 for three Adults
  • $280.00 for four Adults
  • $530.00 for five Adults
  • $420.00 for six adults

Observe twin newborn calves during a safari in Minneriya National Park.

A very rare incident in the elephant world has once again brought Minneriya National Park of Sri Lanka to the forefront in May 2020. The national park of Minneriya has witnessed the birth of twin elephant babies, a highly uncommon occurrence among elephants. Concurrently, this is the second instance of this nature that has been documented on the island, as the first twin newborn elephant was observed in the Maduru Oya National Park in 2010. In April 2020, wildlife conservationists in Africa saw another twin elephant.

The COVID-19 lockdown has been lifted, and visitors to Minneriya National Park are now able to observe the two identical infant calves and interact with their mother. Two infants are continuously cuddling each other together, Thus, both are sucking milk from their mother at the same time. As per an elephant researcher, Smith Pilapitiya, who works with the Department of Wildlife Conservation (DWC) to conduct research on Asian elephants (Elephas maximus Maximus), he initially observed the twin infants.

Nevertheless, Tharaka Prasad, the chief veterinary surgeon of the DWC, has informed us that the Sri Lankan wildlife department has observed and confirmed that the DNA tests for the mother and the two infants are identical.

History’s decaying monuments and wild elephants in Minneriya

Most travelers to Sri Lanka have a priority list that includes to visit historical monuments. I believe that a visit to Sri Lanka is incomplete without experiencing the island’s rich historical heritage, and the cultural triangle is the ideal location to do so.

When the Minneriya jeep safari is announced, the majority of travelers are taken aback, as they do not anticipate the possibility of encountering untamed animals during their visit to the cultural triangle.

Jeep safari is a by-product of the cultural triangle of Sri Lanka, which includes Dambulla, Sigiriya, Polonnaruwa, and Minneriya National Park, where the majority of travelers visit the historical sites. Minneriya National Park is situated within the cultural triangle, which enables visitors to explore the park without sacrificing their valuable time.

Habarana Jeep Safari, also known as Minneriya National Park Safari, is a highly sought-after and captivating activity in the vicinity of Sigiriya. Habarana Safari is another name for Minneriya Safari, as the Jeep Safari commences at Habarana Junction, a small community.

The Minneriya National Park Safari is an unanticipated activity for the majority of travelers, particularly those who are foreign. In fact, the majority of travelers are unaware of the possibility of participating in a safari in the cultural triangle. While learning about the island’s rich historical past, you will have the opportunity to experience the fauna of Sri Lanka by incorporating Minneriya National Park into your tour itinerary.

Explore four tourist destinations during the cultural triangle itinerary

A safari in Minneriya National Park provides an opportunity to observe a significant number of untamed animals, with elephants being the most prevalent. Minneriya, located in the central province of Sri Lanka, is one of the most suitable locations to observe untamed elephants. The opportunity is less for observing leopards and bears in comparison to that of Yala and Wilpattu national parks during the Minneriya safari.

The Minneriya National Park Safari is not available as a standalone tour from remote holiday destinations and west coast beach resorts like Negombo and Bentota. However, it is included in round-trip itineraries that encompass a cultural triangle. Tourists who are lodging at hotels along the western and southern coasts frequently visit Udawalawe National Park and Yala National Park for wildlife exploration in Sri Lanka

Safari to Minneriya National Park from the eastern coast

However, Minneriya can be easily accessed from beach holiday destinations such as Nilaweli, Kalkudah, Pasikudah, and Batticaloa. Minneriya is approximately 85 km from the beaches of the east coast of Sri Lanka, which is why travelers who opt for a beach hotel on the east coast can reach Minneriya within a two-hour package. Consequently, a safari in Sri Lanka and a beach vacation can be combined by selecting a beach resort on the east coast travel and leisure in Minneriya National Park.

There has been a significant increase in the number of hotels that have been constructed along the eastern coast of Sri Lanka. As a result, travelers can readily locate accommodations in these regions. In reality, the East Coast offers the most ideal conditions for beach vacations from April to November as a result of the monsoon’s influence on the West and Southern Coasts.

A significant number of jeeps congregate at the entrance of Minneriya National Park early in the morning and late in the evening, like in some other national parks, such as Udawalawe and Yala. The entrance to Mineriya National Park is extremely congested during the early hours and afternoons due to the large number of tourists who opt to exit from safari. After visiting the historical monuments in the cultural triangle, some of them are returning to their base in Habarana, Dambulla, or Sigiriya. Others are taking an additional journey from their hotel in the vicinity to explore the Sri Lankan wildlife during their free time during their Sri Lanka road trip.

The History of Minneriya National Park

Minneriya was designated as a sanctuary in 1938 and a national park in August 1997. Since 1998, the national park has been accessible to the public. Minneriya National Park is the most prominent national park in the North-central Province and the Polonnaruwa district. Minneriya national park encompasses an area of 8000 hectares and offers a secure and protected environment for wildlife. Minneriya National Park is situated on the Colombo-Polonnaruwa main route, approximately 182 kilometers from Colombo. However, the park is accessible by a mere 10-kilometer journey for tourists who are visiting Sigiriya, Dambulla, and Habarana.

During the Minneriya national park safari, you will have the opportunity to observe a significant number of untamed elephants. Crocodiles, primates, monitors, and jackals are among the numerous animals that can be observed in addition to the elephant. Sloth bears and leopards are also visible in this location; however, the likelihood of observing them is exceedingly unusual. A significant number of wild elephants migrate from neighboring wildlife sanctuaries, including Sasgamuwa, Mmaduru Oya National Park, Somawathiya, and Galoya Sanctuary, to Minneriya National Park, which is highly sought-after for its wild elephant population.

It is widely believed that the wild elephants at Minneriya are more docile than those in other national parks in Sri Lanka. Nevertheless, it is crucial to exercise caution when interacting with these wild jumbos.

Minneriya wildlife reserve and vegetation

Rare tree species that yield valuable woods, including Halmilla, Weera, Palu, and Milla, are frequently observed in this arid zones park. The dusty track in the park is flanked by maana, a type of grass that can develop to a height of 30 cm.

The majority of jeep divers in the park possess well-trained eyes and a keen eye for identifying animals. Consequently, they are able to identify wild animals more readily than foreigners. Consequently, it is highly advisable to enlist the assistance of a jeep driver who has experience conducting safaris in Minneriya National Park in order to ensure the most enjoyable places in the safari experience.

Wasp nests, which are large shell-shaped objects that hang from the branches of gigantic trees, may be observed. Wasp nests are frequently observed in this region of Sri Lanka. Wasp nests and wasp assaults are noteworthy features of Sigiriya rock fortress. Every year, numerous wasp attacks are reported from the Sigiriya, which is a World Heritage Site. Thus, the leeward side of the Sigiriya rock fortress is home to a substantial number of wasp nests, which are constructed in a manner that protects them from the strong breeze.

Several iron cubicles, which are supposed to provide protection in the event of a wasp attack, can be observed at the adjacent popular tourist attraction, Sigiriya rock fortress, near the lion’s paw. Nets are in place to protect the cubicles. Although no wasps were recorded in Minneriya National Park, it is evident that the following advice should be followed: refrain from approaching the nests, avoid disturbing them, and reduce the volume of commotion Thus, visitors are prohibited from disembarking from the jeep in the park, with the exception of a few designated popular locations.

The park is a sanctuary for wild elephants, as it is dotted with a plethora of vegetation that they relish and a vast expanse of open grassland in close proximity to the Minneriya reservoir. The park is characterized by a combination of scrubland, grassland, and forest vegetation. Elephants are fond of the vegetation and flatland landscape of Minneriya Park. Udawalawe National Park, an additional wildlife reserve with substantial populations of untamed elephants, also exhibits comparable geographical conditions and vegetation.

Minneriya Tank

The primary source of water in the national park is the Minneriya reservoir. This man-made tank, which is over 2500 years old and remains in excellent condition, is responsible for the irrigation of over 8,000 hectares of paddy fields. The tank is a critical source of life for the local community as well as for the creatures in the park. The Minneriya tank, which was constructed in the 3rd century BC, is one of the earliest man-made tanks in Sri Lanka. It was erected during the reign of King Mahasen. The primary catchment area of the reservoir is the Minneriya jungle. The reservoir covers an area of 4,500 acres when it is fully filled with water.

The Padupola viewing point and the Rmbawewa viewing point are the two observation platforms in the national park. Typically, visitors are prohibited from exiting the vehicles during the safari; however, travelers are permitted to step off at these viewing points. The two viewing points are situated on a higher elevation in the park, providing a panoramic and expansive view of a significant portion of the National Park. So, be sure to descend to these viewing points and observe the elephants that are prevalent throughout the national park.

What is the unique quality of Minneriya in terms of observing untamed elephants?

The Minneriya Lake distinguishes the national park from the other national parks in Sri Lanka. The lake ensures an uninterrupted water supply to the grasslands surrounding the lake, which is why it is feasible to observe well-growing grassland in the park at any time of year, with the exception of the inundation season. Minneriya National Park is one of numerous national parks in the region that lacks a guaranteed water supply. Wild animals are selecting Minneriya National Park as their refuge due to the abundance of water, even during the arid season.

What species of animals can be observed in Minneriya National Park?

The park is home to 24 species of mammals, 160 species of birds, 25 species of fish, and 75 species of invertebrates. The park is home to 15 endemic butterfly species and six endangered butterfly species. A frequent sight in the water resources of this region is the painted stork, a large bird with a long mandible that is standing in the water. They can be observed in the park at any time of the year in significant quantities. Another frequently observed species in the park’s water resources is the great white pelican. Endemic bird species, including the Sri Lanka hanging parrot, jungle fowl, and grey hornbill, can be observed in this location. The red-lipped lizard, an endangered and endemic species, is observed in this location and is one of the reptile species that inhabit the park.

The leopard is a sub-species of the common leopard and is the largest carnivore animal in Sri Lanka. The Sri Lanka leopard is reported in numerous national parks and in the hill country of Sri Lanka. Sri Lankan Leopards are typically observed in numerous national parks throughout Sri Lanka, with Wilapptu and Yala being the most frequently visited. Leopards are also visible in Minneriya national park, despite its reputation for untamed elephants.

Elephants of considerable size are congregating in the vicinity of Minneriya Lake

The most optimal location to observe a significant number of wild elephants is the open grassland adjacent to the Minneriya reservoir. Animals congregate here daily as dusk approaches to satisfy their water and sustenance needs. Elephants are particularly fond of the delicate vegetation that grows along the bank. Elephants of all sizes and shapes can be observed in this location. A total of 400 untamed elephants have been referenced in this context. Here, it is very common to observe numerous populations of wild elephants lumbering along the bank.

During the dry season, the number of untamed elephants in Minneriya National Park can be remarkably low, with only approximately twelve of them present. During droughts, the majority of elephants relocate to adjacent wildlife reserves in search of water. If that is the case, you may need to select Kauduall or Eco-park as the location for your safari. The elephants migrate between the national parks in the region and select the most suitable location for their stay based on the availability of sustenance and water. They traverse from one location to another on foot, as elephants are exceptional walkers and can cover up to 400 kilometers per day.

The park is inundated with torrential rainwater during the monsoon season, which spans from October to March. The region experiences dry weather with extremely low rainfall for the remainder of the year. Although the tank is utilized to retain water during the rainy season, it also supplies the entire region with water during the drought.

Therefore, the Minneriya national park safari is an invaluable resource for individuals who encounter the cultural triangle of Sri Lanka. Most Sri Lankan round-trip beach holiday itineraries include the Cultural Triangle as a standard option. Therefore, it is imperative that you take the time to investigate this national park in the arid zone, as it is a unique opportunity to accumulate an infinite number of breathtaking wildlife memories.

Accommodations situated in close proximity to Minneriya National Park

Minneriya is a rocky outcrop that is remote and has thick vegetation in the arid terrain. Minneriya is situated on the Habarana-Matara highway in the North-central province of Sri Lanka.  The Minneriya National Park and the historical Minneriya reservoir are the primary attractions of Minneriya, where the National Park occupies the majority of the land. Consequently, the region is home to a mere handful of families, and travelers are unable to locate accommodations in Minneriya. Tour operators in Sri Lanka do not provide any renowned hotels or other accommodations in Minneriya. However, there are numerous opportunities to locate lodging in adjacent cities, including Habaran, Polonnaruwa, and Sigiriya. Any of the cities previously mentioned is only a few minutes’ drive from Minneriya National Park.

Udawalawe or Minneriya

If you are uncertain about which national park to visit for an elephant safari—Minneriya or Udawalawe—I must inform you that both are identical. I have visited both locations on numerous occasions Thus, the fauna and flora that are present in both locations are largely consistent. Elephants are the primary attraction in both national parks, but visitors will also observe a variety of other animals, including buffaloes, deer, and crocodiles, as well as avian fauna species.

Minneriya National Park is situated in the north-central province of Sri Lanka, while Udawalawe National Park is situated on the west coast of the country. Both national parks are situated in the arid zone of Sri Lanka. Ella Udawalawe National Park is the optimal location for your safari if you are situated on the west and south coast. If you are residing in the cultural triangle, it is recommended that you visit Minneriya for an elephant safari.

Safari in Minneriya National Park: Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the location where I can rent a 4×4 for the Minneriya national park safari?

A 4×4 can be rented from any of the hotels in Sigiriya, Dambulla, Habana, and Polonnaruwa. If you are not lodging at a nearby hotel, you can easily locate a jeep for the safari at Habarana junction, which is located directly in front of the petrol station. A significant number of Jeep owners are awaiting customers to call on their doors.

2. What is the cost of the Minneriya national park safari?

The cost of a Minneriya safari is contingent upon the number of participants. Typically, the cost per person is approximately US$ 50 for two individuals and US$ 40 for four individuals. As the number of passengers increases, the entrance fee decreases. Simultaneously, the cost of hiring a jeep decreases when it is shared among multiple travelers. For instance, the cost of a three-hour safari in a jeep ranges from 4,000 to 5,000 rupees, and the vehicle can accommodate up to six passengers.

3. Where can I acquire the entrance permits for the Minneriya National Park tour?

There is only one location where entrance permits can be obtained: the ticket counter at the entrance of Minneriya National Park.

4. What is the cost of admission for the Minneriya National Park safari?

$ 15 per person, $ 8 per child, $ 8 service charge, 15% tax, and 250 rupees for the jeep. Don’t neglect to bring Sri Lankan rupees with you, as entrance fees can only be paid in local currency.

5. What is the duration of the Minneriya national park tour?

The Minneriya safari typically lasts approximately two hours, during which time travelers can visit the majority of the animal-viewing areas. However, there are instances in which you may spend three to four hours in the park. All of this is contingent upon the Jeep driver and the guide. The majority of drivers and guides are eager to provide their visitors with the most exceptional safari experience. Consequently, they strive to exhibit as many animals as possible to the travelers, which results in a slightly extended stay in the park.

6. What is the optimal period to visit the Minneriya National Park safari?

The Minneriya safari is to commence at approximately 6:00 a.m. before the sun comes out or in the afternoon. Animals are readily identifiable during the early morning hours prior to the sun’s complete illumination. The difficulty of identifying animals in the park increases as the temperature rises, as they migrate to shaded areas to escape the heat. The afternoon Minneriyaa safari is scheduled to commence at approximately 2:00 p.m. as the sun sets, the temperature in the park decreases, and the animals begin to emerge once more.

7. What are the hours of operation for Minneriya Park?

Daily safari excursions are available at Minneriya National Park from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Reasons to select Seerendipity Tours for a tour of Minneriya National Park

Seerendipity Tour is a travel company that is wholly locally owned and has its headquarters in Colombo. Seerendipity Tours’ most significant asset is its exceptionally knowledgeable local personnel, who are capable of organizing your ideal Sri Lankan vacation.

Guaranteed to be the most competitive pricing for your Sri Lankan itinerary

By booking a tour with Seerendipity Tours, you are directly contacting the local company, ensuring that there are no intermediaries and that you receive the most competitive price. Please do not hesitate to contact us and inform us of your travel plans and preferred experiences.

Plan the most memorable excursion to Sri Lanka with the assistance of an expert

Our staff develops a customized itinerary for you, which you may modify until you identify the optimal Sri Lanka trip package. You may also consult our current tour packages for inspiration (www.sirilaktours.com). All of our pre-made tour packages are adaptable and can be customized to satisfy your specific requirements. Please contact us at admin@seerendipitytours.com or by phone. 0094-77-440977, WhatsApp: 0094-77-4440977

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