Overview, designation, area, and location of Minneriya National Park

Minneriya National Park, also known as Minneriya Safari Park Sri Lanka established on August 12, 1997 (Gazette Notification No. 988/4), is one of Sri Lanka's most visited national parks in Sri Lanka which is an ideal destination for wildlife holidays & family adventure trip in Sri Lanka. Minneriya National Park covers an area of 8,890 hectares including the former Minneriya - Giritale Sanctuary. Minneriya - Giritale Nature Reserve (Blocks I, II, III, and IV) and Sigiriya Sanctuary. Minneriya Nationa park located in the district of Polonnaruwa (Pulathisi Pura) of North Central Province Sri Lanka middle of Sri Lanka's cultural triangle, is well known for its amazing elephant gathering which is one of Asia's best animal experiences. Further Minneriya National Park is one of the 70 IBA - Important Bird Areas of Sri Lanka which is recommended place for bird watching tours in Sri Lanka. 

More crucially, this complex is one of the most important ecosystems in dry zone Sri Lanka for the long-term conservation of elephants (including displaced individuals) and associated flora and fauna, according to biodiversity conservationists. Furthermore, it is bordered by Wasgomuwa National Park, Riverine Nature Reserve, Flood Plains National Park, Kaudulla National Park, and Somawathiya National Park, giving enormous landscape - scale conservation prospects in the Dry Zone. The main entrance is located next to the Habarana-Polonnaruwa highway.

During the dry season, Minneriya National Park functions as a feeding place for elephants living in the Matale, Polonnaruwa, and Trincomalee districts' forests. If you visit during this season, you will have an unforgettable animal experience which make a remarkable wildlife holiday in Sri Lanka.

Minneriya is about 4 -5 hours drive from Colombo's main city and close to many  local attractions, For example, Polonnaruwa, a UNESCO world heritage site, is only 20 kilometers away, and Habarana and Sigiriya are also nearby, enabling you to combine your cultural trip and wildlife holiday into one trip. Scrub plains and mixed evergreen forests, as well as rocky outcrops and marshes, make up the park's topography, providing a diverse range of habitats for a variety of animals.

Elephant Gathering in Minneriya National Park

During the dry season of June to September, approximately 300 elephants gather in Minneriya National Park around the old Minneriya water tank This is only place where you can see this much of Asian Elephant heard (Elephas Maximum Maximus) in one location. This gathering is listed by Lonely Planet as among the Top Ten wildlife spectacles in the world and we recommend you encounter with this amazing live experience during your family adventure of wildlife holidays in Sri Lanka. 

Code of Conduct for Tourists at Minneriya National Park

• Do not feed animals or take any material from the park (including plant parts, bones, rocks etc.) 

• Observe strict silence at wildlife sightings.

• Do not leave your vehicle, lean out of the window or climb on the roof. 

• Do not throw rubbish out of your vehicle, please take all the garbage back with you. 

• Smoking inside the park is strictly prohibited. 

• Only four wheel vehicles are allowed inside the park and they have to maintain a maximum speed limit of about 25km/h.

• Slow driving enables you to observe small animals such as birds, reptiles and mammals.

• Please ensure that your driver does not obstruct other vehicles or interfere with animal movement.

FAQ – Minneriya National Park (Frequently Asked Question)

Is it worth to visit Minneriya National Park during my holiday in Sri Lanka?

Yes. Minneriya National Park is probably the most easily accessed national park from the cultural triangle. If you stay 1 – 2 nights in Dambuall , Sigiriya or Habarana area, it is strongly recommend to experience this best wildlife safari in Sri Lanka which you will have a long lasting memory. But if you are on your wildlife photography tour or Bird Watching tour in Sri Lanka, Minneriya National Park is a MUST. 

What is the best time to visit Minneriya National Park?

Minneriya National Park is 365 days safari park but May to September is a prime time to see largest Elephant gathering in Asia.  

How much is the Minneriya National Park Entrance fees ?

As per the latest revision of National Park entry fee (Amendment 2022 sep 1) following will be the Minneriya National Park latest entrance fee. For more details on the Sri Lanka National PArk entry fee amendment September 2022 (Latest update) go through  

• 1 Person     14,920.00 Rupees
• 2 Persons     25,080.00 Rupees
• 3 Persons    35,250.00 Rupees
• 4 Persons    45,400.00 Rupees
• 5 Persons    55,550.00 Rupees
• 6 Persons    65,720.00 Rupees
• 7 Persons    80,450.00 Rupees
• 8 Persons    90,610.00 Rupees
• 9 Persons    100,770.00 Rupees
• 10 Persons    110,930.00 Rupees

Special Note - These prices are as per the 2022 September 3 updated exchange rate (1 USD = 360 Rupees) and prices can be changed at any time without prior notice.  

Can I buy Minneriya Entrance Ticket online? 

Yes, this facility is now available and for more details Minneriya National Park entrance ticket online booking 

Can I pay in USD for Minneriya National Park Entrance Fees? 

No, you need pay in Sri Lanka Rupees and any international currencies are not accepted for National Parks of Sri Lanka for entrance fees. 

How much is the cost of safari jeep at Minneriya National Park? 

Approximate cost of half day safari Jeep at Minneriya National Park would be 40 - 45 $ 
Fully day safari jeep cost at Minneriya National Park 85 - 90 $ 
Better contact your travel agent in Sri Lanka to have a qualified driver and smooth jeep safari. 
Note - This price is based on 2022 January rates and the new prices may vary with fuel hikes / taxes etc

How many people can go in one safari jeep at Minneriya National Park? 

6 people can accommodate in 1 jeep but it’s comfortable for 3 – 4 people in 1 jeep.

Can I hire Toyota / Mitsubishi Jeep for Safari at Minneriya National Park?

Yes. Most of the Safari jeeps are Indian made but there are Japanese made Toyota / Mitsubishi as well. Price will be slightly higher than the Indian made jeeps. 

Do I get a tracker for my wildlife safari at Minneriya National Park?

Yes, Department of Wildlife provide wildlife tracker for each jeep free of charge subject to availability.

Do I need to tip for safari jeep driver & tracker?

If you satisfied with the service you received from them, recommend to pay a reasonable tip for tracker & jeep driver.  

What to bring for Minneriya National Park Sri Lanka?

1. Light costumes / recommended colors are Green, Beige, khaki, tan etc.

2. Sunblock / Sunglasses / Lip balm / hat 

3. Insect repellent

4. Binoculars are recommended to improve sightings 

5. Camera and accessories such as spare batteries, memory cards

6. Ceylon Expeditions will load required cool bottled water / soft drinks / snacks etc 

What are the other National Parks to see Elephants in Sri Lanka?

Yala / Wilpattu / Uda Walawe (Mainly) / Bundala / Wasgomuwa also best safari parks in Sri Lanka with Elephants and other wildlife species. 

How can I get water / soft drinks during the safari at Minneriya National Park?

Ceylon Expeditions exclusive jeeps are fully loaded with cool water / snacks / soft drinks etc. but if you are an individual traveler, better you check with your travel company or jeep provider. 

Am I allowed to walk around the national parks?

Not at all. You are not allowed to get down the Jeep and must be inside the vehicle unless otherwise instructed by the wildlife tracker. 

What if I have special dietary requirements?

Ceylon Expeditions generally check meal plan well in advance and arrange accordingly. If you are an individual traveler, better you check with you Travel agent in Sri Lanka. 

What travel documents do I need to visit Minneriya National Park Sri Lanka?

Only you will need a valid passport or National Identity Card to enter the national parks Sri Lanka. 

How far in advance do I need to book Minneriya National Park Safari?

If you are an individual traveler, you do not need an advance booking and you may obtain the ticket at the entrance gate. But if you travel through a Travel Company. Better you inform them well in advance to reserve the safari jeep and tracker other logistics arrangements. 

Minneriya National Park Contact Number 

Dialing from Sri Lanka local number 027 32 79 243
Dialing from an overseas telephone +94 27 32 79 243

How to get to Minneriya National Park?

From Colombo – Kuruneagala – Habarana – Minneriya 
5 Hrs journey 

Is the Minneriya National Park pet friendly?

No, Sri Lanka National Parks are not pet friendly. 

Can I do night safari in Minneriya National Park? 

No it’s banned to do night safaris / Infrared drives in Minneriya National Park Sri Lanka. 

How many National Parks in Sri Lanka? 

There are 22 National parks in Sri Lanka.

Famous National parks in Sri Lanka? / Most visited National Parks in Sri Lanka

Yala National Park / Wilpattu National Park / Minneriya National Park / Kaudulla National Park / Hurulu Eco Park / Bundala National park / Horton Plains National park / Wasgamuwa National park / Uda Walawe National Park. 

How can I get lunch during full day safari? 

Generally, travelers bring packed breakfast & lunch both but Ceylon Expeditions deliver fresh hot meal (Lunch) to inside the park during full day safaris on request. 

Is it safe to go on safari at Minneriya National Park?

Cannot give a Yes or No answer since you entering to the zone of the untamed wild animals. Department of Wildlife Conservation (DWC) has fully committed for the safety of the visitors. Code of conduct / rules for the safari jeep drivers are well in place. But make sure your own safety and always be inside the safari jeep and avoid unnecessary behaviors like feeding / shouting / selfie / high speed driving etc.

How do I plan a safari at Minneriya National Park? 

If you are a traveling your own, make sure to reserve a safari jeep well in advance to avoid last minute hassle at the entrance gate searching for jeeps which destroy you holiday. You can buy your entrance ticket at the gate. Keep water / camera / light dress / binocular ready. 

If you travel through a travel agency in Sri Lanka, they will organize all these well in advance. 

How do I make a jeep safari booking at Minneriya National Park?

eMail to holidays@expeditions.lk or SMS / WhatsApp / Viber to our hotline +94 717 88 44 99 

Can I pay Minneriya entrance ticket from my credit or debit card?

As of January 2022, this facility id not available.  

Can I hire a air condition safari jeep at Minneriya National Park?

Yes, possible but subject to availability. Make sure to inform your travel agent in advance.  

Are there lots of bugs inside the Minneriya National Park?

Since you are in tropical country, yes, bugs / mosquitoes are there but this wont affect your jeep safari 

Can I feed the animals at Minneriya National Park?

Not at all. You are not allowed to feed animals at any National Park in Sri Lanka. This is an offence. 

Can pregnant women go on safari at Minneriya National Park?

Yes, can but subject to medical advices. Ceylon Expeditions operate babymoon holidays in Sri Lanka including safaris with very comfortable spacious safari jeeps with very careful slow driving and with very special care. In this case you need to inform your travel agency in Sri Lanka. 

What kind of clothing should I pack for Minneriya National Park safari?

Casual, comfortable cotton clothing is suitable due to temperature and ideal colurs are Khaki, brown, white, green and beige.  Please note: brighter colours like blue or red are proven to attract insects. 

What happens if it rain during my Minneriya jeep safari, 

All jeeps are open, but tent is there to cover you if it rain. 

How long Minneriya National Park Jeep Safari?

Regular safari will take 3 – 4 hours but if you are on your wildlife holiday or bird watching tour in Sri Lanka, we recommend full day + half day safari since Minneriya is the largest National Park in Sri Lanka with high animal sightings. 

Can I stay in a luxury tented camp near Minneriya National Park?

Yes, there are few luxury tented camping operators in Minneriya and contact your travel agency in Sri Lanka or Ceylon Expeditions to go with a safest / luxury tented camp. 

Is Minneriya jeep safari escorted?

Yes these are escorted safari 

Can I use washroom / toilet at the entrance of Minneriya National Park?

Yes, toilets are available at the entrance premises.

What is the best time to see wildlife?

Early morning and the hours preceding sunset are ideal times to view wildlife.

Is there mobile phone reception in Minneriya National Park?

No mobile signals are available in Minneriya National Park. Signals are jammed purposely by the government to enhance the experience of the wildlife enthusiasts.

Any other details please contact,

Wildlife Tour Consultant of Ceylon Expeditions 
Wildlife Helpline of Ceylon Expeditions (Voice / SMS / WhatsApp / Viber +94717 88 44 99 or holidays@expeditions.lk 

Wildlife in Minneriya National Park

Elephants, Spotted Deer, Sambar Deer, Wild Buffalo, Wild Pig, Grey Langers, Purple-faced Leaf Monkeys, three types of Mongoose, Porcupine, and Indian Pangolin are among the park's 24 animal species. Over 170 bird species have been reported in Minneriya National Park. From migratory waders like Woodsand Pipers, Common Sandpipers, and Kentish Plovers to forest birds like Malabar-pied Hornbills, Rufus Woodpeckers, the globally endangered Lesser Adjutant, and endemics like Malabar-pied Hornbills, Rufus Woodpeckers, and endemics like Malabar-pied Hornbills, Rufus Woodpeckers, and endemics. Some of the highlights include the Sri Lanka Grey Horn-bill, Sri Lanka Green Pigeon, Brown-capped Babbler, and Sri Lanka Jungle Fowl. This impressive bird life enhances your wildlife tour experience. 

The rare and endangered Slender Wood Frog and the Common Tree Frog are two of the nine species of Amphibians found at Minneriya National Park. Eight of the park's 25 reptile species are indigenous, including the Red-lipped Lizard. There are also Water and Land Monitors in this area. Near the tank, a Mugger Crocodile can be observed. The Minneriya reservoir is home to a variety of freshwater fish.

Flora in Minneriya National Park

In the vicinity of the Minneriya tank, Terminalia arjuna, Manilkara hexandra, neem (Azadirachta indica), sacred fig (Ficus religiosa), and Piliostigma racemosum are common. The prominent plant species in Minneriya include Chloroxylon swietenia, Vitex altissima, Berrya cordifolia, Diospyros quaesita, and Drypetes sepiaria. In abandoned chena cultivations and scrublands, Randia dumetorum, crotons, and Calotropis gigantea are prevalent. Within the park, the Department of Forest Conservation has constructed eucalyptus and teak plantations. Bambusa bambos, Ceylon date palm (Phoenix pusilla), Imperata cylindrica, and Panicum maximum are monocots and grasses. The diversity of flora species adds more value to your wildlife photography tour. 

Climate and vegetation in Minneriya National Park

The park is located in the country's dry zone, with the dry season running from May to September. The rainy season lasts from October to January during the northeastern monsoon. Low - canopy montane forests, intermediate high-canopy secondary forests, scrublands, abandoned chena lands, grasslands, rocky outcrops, and wetlands are among Minneriya's principal habitats.

Physical Features of Minneriya National Park

Minneriya National Park topography is varied, with hills, patnas and talawas, and ranges in elevation from about 100 m to 500 m.  
Much of the area is included inside the lower peneplain, which is surrounded by rock massifs, the most prominent of which is the Sudukanda ridge. Minneriya is an ancient tank with a catchment area of 24,000 ha and a maximum size of 2,550 ha when full. The Highland Complex, or Khondalite group of rocks, is where the area is found geologically. Soils include reddish brown latosolic soils, reddish brown earths, low humic cleys, mountain regosols, and alluvium of varying texture and drainage from the Great Group Level.

References

Department of Wildlife Conservations of Sri Lanka (DWC)
Biodiversity Baseline Survey at Minneriya National Park
Image Credit - SLTDA / Daily FT / Sunday Times / Daily mirror