In the following article, we’ll share everything you need to plan your adventure in Yala and nearby areas: 10 must-do activities, the best accommodation options for all budgets, how to get there, and our favorite places to eat in the area. Let’s dive into the wilderness!
Don't skip this place when having a road trip in Sri Lanka
Kandy
Sigiriya
Yala Park
Ella
Trincomalee
Mirissa
.jpeg)
Unawatuna
Galle
Negombo
1. Go on a Jeep Safari in Yala National Park
The ultimate reason to visit the area: a thrilling jeep safari in Yala National Park. This park is world-famous for having one of the highest leopard densities on the planet. You can also spot elephants, crocodiles, wild boars, and exotic birds.
Location: Yala Block 1 Entrance, near Tissamaharama
Price: $40–60 USD per person (including jeep, entrance fee, and guide)
Tip: The early morning safari (around 5:00 AM) offers the best wildlife sightings. Book your tour in advance or through your hotel.
2. Relax at Kirinda Beach
Kirinda Beach is a quiet and less-visited beach near Yala, with golden sands and a serene vibe. It’s also home to a small rock temple with views over the sea. A perfect escape after a dusty safari.
Location: Kirinda village, about 12 km from Tissamaharama
Price: Free
Tip: Visit during sunset for beautiful lighting and fewer visitors.
3. Walk around Tissamaharama Lake
This picturesque lake, locally called “Tissa Wewa,” is ideal for a morning or evening walk. The calm waters reflect the sky, and it’s a great place to see local fishermen, pelicans, and storks.
Location: Tissamaharama town
Price: Free
Tip: Bring insect repellent if visiting around dusk. There’s a small paved path around the lake for easy walking.
3 weeks itinerary Sri Lanka
Famous train ride in Ella
Discover the south Coast of Sri Lanka
Visit the iconic Sigiriya rock
4. Visit the Tissamaharama Raja Maha Vihara
This ancient Buddhist temple is a spiritual and historical site built over 2,000 years ago. The massive white stupa is one of the oldest in Sri Lanka and still actively used for prayer.
Location: Tissamaharama town
Price: Free (donations welcome)
Tip: Dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered) and remove shoes before entering the temple area.
5. Discover Bundala National Park
If you’re a bird lover or prefer a quieter alternative to Yala, head to Bundala National Park. It’s a designated Ramsar wetland and home to flamingos, storks, and even elephants.
Location: About 30 km from Yala, near Hambantota
Price: Around $35–50 USD per person (including jeep and entrance)
Tip: Great for photography and birdwatching, especially from November to March.
6. Climb the Sand Dunes of Palatupana
This hidden gem lies near the beach entrance of Yala. The large, golden dunes offer a unique, desert-like landscape with beautiful ocean views.
Location: Palatupana, just before the main Yala entrance
Price: Free
Tip: Bring water and go early or late in the day to avoid the heat. It’s a great spot for photos.
7. Visit Kataragama Sacred City
A multi-religious pilgrimage site revered by Buddhists, Hindus, and Muslims alike. It’s one of the holiest places in Sri Lanka and comes alive with rituals and temple ceremonies.
Location: Kataragama town, about 18 km from Yala
Price: Free (donations welcome)
Tip: Visit in the evening to witness the Puja ceremony. Respect local customs and dress appropriately.
8. Tree of Life and Giant’s Bath
This mystical place near Kataragama is home to an ancient water structure known as the “Giant’s Bath” and a massive sacred tree, believed to hold healing powers by locals. A spiritual yet lesser-known stop.
Location: Kataragama area
Price: Free
Tip: Ask locals for directions or visit with a guide to understand its full cultural meaning.
9. Enjoy Birdwatching at Debarawewa Wetland
A peaceful wetland area ideal for spotting birds, especially in the early morning. It’s less touristy than the big parks and offers a chance to observe nature quietly.
Location: Debarawewa village, close to Tissamaharama
Price: Free
Tip: Bring binoculars and come early morning for the best variety of species.
10. Visit a Local Village for Traditional Cooking
Some eco-lodges and homestays near Tissamaharama offer village tours where you can learn to cook traditional rice and curry over wood fires and taste homegrown jackfruit or lotus root.
Location: Varies (ask your guesthouse)
Price: Around $10–$20 USD per person
Tip: Book in advance and bring your curiosity and appetite!
Where to Stay in Yala / Tissamaharama
We’ve carefully selected a mix of accommodation options to suit all budgets and comfort levels:
Nature Resort - Yala Safari Village ($) – Budget-friendly safari village accommodations
Lake Edge Safari Resort ($) – Budget-friendly rooms near the lake with great safari packages
Thaulle Resort ($$) – Beautiful lake views, spa services, and nature-focused design
Cinnamon Wild Yala ($$) – Mid-range resort inside Yala buffer zone, often visited by wildlife
Jetwing Yala ($$$) – A luxury resort on the beachfront with a pool, top dining, and safari access
How to Visit Yala National Park
Yala is typically the third or fourth stop on a classic Sri Lankan itinerary, following Ella or the south coast. You can access the park via several transport options:
By private car or driver
Price: $60–100 USD from Ella or Mirissa
Duration: 2–4 hours depending on start point
Tip: This is the most convenient and flexible way, especially if planning a morning safari.
By train
There’s no direct train to Yala. You can take a train to Matara or Ella and continue by taxi.
Price: $1–5 USD (train) + $30–50 USD (taxi)
Duration: Varies depending on your combination
Tip: Book second or third class in advance if coming from Colombo or Ella.
By bus
Frequent buses run to Tissamaharama from major towns like Ella, Matara, or Colombo.
Price: $1–3 USD
Duration: 4–6 hours
Tip: It’s budget-friendly but expect crowded and slower rides.
By group shuttle or tour
Many hotels and hostels arrange shared transfers or full safari packages including transport.
Price: $30–60 USD
Tip: Ask in advance and confirm if entrance fees are included.
Where to Eat in Yala / Tissamaharama
Sri Lankan food here is flavorful and often home-cooked. Try local dishes like dhal curry, coconut sambol, and crispy hoppers. Here are our top picks:
Refresh Restaurant – Local rice & curry buffet, affordable and authentic
Calorian Restaurant [VEG] – Vegetarian-friendly and lots of Sri Lankan dishes
Chef Lady Restaurant – Cozy place for a family-style lunch or dinner
Yala Waves Restaurant [VEG] – Near the beach, great for curries and fresh juices
Tissa Inn Restaurant – International options plus Sri Lankan staples
Smoky Kitchen [VEG] – Vegan and veggie-friendly with roti, lentils, and fresh salads
Hotel Chandrika Restaurant – More upscale, good for a relaxed dinner post-safari
