Half Day Minneriya National Park Safari from Dambulla

Anuradhapura , Sri Lanka

Half Day Minneriya National Park Safari from Dambulla

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For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

This half-day Minneriya National Park safari will give you the opportunity to witness a large numbers of Sri Lankan elephants who are attracted to grass fields on the edges of the reservoir during the dry season. The Minneriya tank contributes to sustain a large herd. Elephants gathered here is numbering around 150-200. Some reports account the number of elephants to as high as 700. They migrate here from Wasgamuwa National Park and benefit from food and shelter of the park's forest. Tourists visit Minneriya largely because of elephants, especially in the dry season.

Available options

Pick up from Dambulla

Pick up and drop off will be provided from most closely located hotels in Dambulla.<br/>Pickup included

What's included

All government taxes.

Refreshments and water bottles during the safari.

Cost of the safari jeep.

Hotel pick up and drop off to most closely located hotels in Dambulla.

Pick up and drop off will be provided by a safari jeep.

Detailed itinerary

You will be picked up from Sigiriya by our jeep driver and taken to enjoy an adventurous half-day safari at Minneriya National Park.

On arrival at the park, you will be able to enjoy a memorable 3 hours jeep safari with our team. Minneriya National Park is reported as the Largest known wild Asian Elephant Gathering at one place in the World. The national park's faunal species include 24 species of mammals, 160 species of birds, 9 species of amphibians, 25 species of reptiles, 26 species of fish, and 75 species of butterflies. This half-day Minneriya National Park safari mainly gives you the chance to spot 100 of wild elephants at once.

After the safari, you will be taken back to your hotel in Dambulla.

What's not included

Entrance fees to Minneriya National Park US$ 25.00 per person (Approximately).

Gratuities.

Anything not mentioned in inclusions.

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

4 reviews

5★

4★

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1★

Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Please be ready at the hotel lobby 15 minutes before the pick up time.

Please bring valid passports for entering to the national park.

Please come with a comfortable attire for a safari.

Please note that since elephants are shifting from one park to another, the safari will be conducted in the relevant park at the time of the tour. It will be Minneriya, Kawdulla or Hurulu Eco Park.

Meeting point

Hotels in Dambulla.

About Anuradhapura

Anuradhapura is a major city in Sri Lanka, famous for its well-preserved ruins of an ancient Sri Lankan civilization. It is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city is a pilgrimage site for Buddhists and offers a rich cultural and historical experience.

Top Attractions

Sacred City of Anuradhapura

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Sacred City of Anuradhapura is home to ancient stupas, temples, and ruins that date back over 2,000 years.

Historical Full day Free

Ruwanwelisaya Dagoba

One of the tallest stupas in the world, this iconic structure is a significant pilgrimage site for Buddhists.

Religious 1-2 hours Free

Sri Maha Bodhi

A sacred fig tree that is said to have been propagated from the original Bodhi tree under which Buddha attained enlightenment.

Religious 30 minutes to 1 hour Free

Jethawanaramaya Dagoba

The tallest stupa in Anuradhapura, known for its impressive size and historical significance.

Historical 1 hour Free

Isurumuniya Temple

A beautiful temple known for its rock carvings and serene atmosphere.

Religious 1-2 hours Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Kottu Roti

A popular Sri Lankan dish made with chopped roti, vegetables, and meat or seafood, cooked on a hot plate.

Dinner Can be made vegetarian or vegan.

Hoppers

Bowl-shaped pancakes made from fermented rice flour and coconut milk, often served with eggs or sambal.

Breakfast Vegetarian.

Rice and Curry

A staple Sri Lankan meal consisting of steamed rice served with a variety of curries.

Lunch/Dinner Can be made vegetarian or vegan.

Lamprais

A Dutch-influenced dish consisting of rice, meat, and vegetables cooked in banana leaves.

Lunch/Dinner Contains meat.

Popular Activities

Hiking in Mihintale Exploring Ritigala Forest Monastery Tea tasting Visiting temples Exploring ancient ruins Attending religious ceremonies Witnessing the Esala Perahera festival

Best Time to Visit

January to March

This is the best time to visit Anuradhapura as the weather is pleasant and dry, making it ideal for exploring the ancient ruins and enjoying outdoor activities.

28-32°C 82-90°F