History of Minneriya National Park has a rich history intertwined with Sri Lanka’s ancient civilization. The park’s centerpiece, the Minneriya Tank, was built in the 3rd century AD by King Mahasen, one of the island’s great monarchs. This reservoir was constructed to support agriculture by storing water during the dry season, showcasing advanced ancient engineering. Over centuries, the area around the tank evolved into a thriving ecosystem, attracting diverse wildlife. Declared a wildlife sanctuary in 1938, it gained national park status in 1997 to protect its rich biodiversity and the migratory corridors of elephants. Today, it’s a vital conservation area and cultural landmark.
Establishment and Historical Background
Minneriya National Park, located in the North Central Province of Sri Lanka, has a rich history rooted in ancient Sri Lankan civilization. The centerpiece of the park is the Minneriya Reservoir, built in the 3rd century CE by King Mahasen (274–301 CE) to irrigate the surrounding agricultural lands. This ancient reservoir has sustained the region for centuries and remains a key feature of the park. Originally declared a wildlife sanctuary in 1938, the area gained further protection when it was designated as a national park in 1997 to conserve its diverse ecosystems and wildlife.
Ecological Importance and Wildlife
Minneriya National Park spans approximately 88.9 square kilometers and boasts a variety of habitats, including grasslands, scrublands, and dense forests. It is most renowned for the “Minneriya Elephant Gathering,” a natural phenomenon where hundreds of wild elephants migrate to the reservoir during the dry season (June to October) in search of water and grazing grounds. The park is also home to a wide range of species, including leopards, sloth bears, and numerous bird species, making it a vital area for biodiversity conservation.
Tourism and Conservation Challenges
Minneriya National Park has become a popular destination for ecotourism due to its unique wildlife experiences and historical significance. Tourists flock to witness the elephant gathering, participate in jeep safaris, and explore the scenic landscapes. However, the park faces challenges such as habitat degradation, human-wildlife conflict, and the pressures of increasing tourism. Conservation efforts focus on balancing ecological preservation with sustainable tourism, ensuring the park remains a haven for wildlife and a cultural treasure for future generations.
Safari Packages
Private Afternoon Tour Itinerary
- 1.00 pm: Pick up from your hotel in the Minneriya area hotels (within 4km) and transfer to Minneriya National Park for Safari
- 1.30pm: Afternoon/Evening Minneriya Safari Tour you can Witness the breathtaking “Gathering” of elephants, along with other wildlife and birds like Peacock, Eagle, Pelicans, Parrot, Crane, Parakeet, Owl and many more. As well animals like Deer, Rabbits, Wild Boar, Grey Langers, Monkey, Water Buffaloes, Crocodiles etc.
- 4.30pm – Drop back to your hotel (within 4km)
NOTE: Time may be change depend on traffic and weather conditions.
Afternoon Tour Price
Rate – Adults Fee – Per Person
- Entrance ticket fee for Minneriya National Park Safari Tour & Jeep: Per Person Cost Price (min 2 Person) – US$ 75 / EUR 72 / GBP 60) per foreign adult and US$ 40 / EUR 36 / GBP 30 per foreign child of age 03 – 12 years are applicable.
What is Included
- Free pick up and drop will be provided free of charge only to main entrance (within 4km) Minneriya area hotels only.
- Private Jeep for your group and Professional Safari Driver
- Minneriya Safari Tour Entrance Tickets
- All applicable taxes.
- Hotel Pick up and Drop Off near Minneriya Park (within 4km)
Excluded
- Food & Drink
- Tips for Driver