Yala National Park , Sri Lanka

Yala to Ella Shared Shuttle Service

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About this experience

Get from Yala to Ella comfortably, conveniently, and affordably with our shared shuttle service, offering a cost-effective and time-efficient transfer solution. Departing at 10:30 AM from pickup locations including Yala National Park Main Entrance, Tissamaharama, and Kataragama areas, this service takes care of everything from your booking to boarding and arriving at your destination. You get to travel in air-conditioned vehicles, including Toyota Prius, Nissan Serena MPV, Toyota Commuter, or equivalent, with seating for up to 10 passengers, ideal for small groups, families, and solo travelers. Experienced drivers familiar with the quickest routes, a standard luggage allowance and optional infant seat, and flexibility to cater to specific needs within our scope make this shuttle a hassle-free, convenient, and reliable way to reach Ella from Yala.

Available options

Yala to Ella Shared Shuttle

Pickup included

What's included

Service of an Experienced Driver

One-way Ticket

Luggage Allowance

1 x Infant Seat

Hotel Pickup & Drop

What you'll see

Make your transfer from Yala to Ella simple and convenient with our Yala to Ella Shared Shuttle Service. Departing at 10:30 AM, you’ll be picked up from Yala National Park Main Entrance, Tissamaharama, and Kataragama areas, and if you’re staying at a hotel, simply wait at the lobby or reception area. Right after you book, you will receive your e-ticket via email after check-in, along with all pickup details—including vehicle number and driver contact—so you can easily identify your driver before departure. Your journey takes around 2 hours in an air-conditioned shared vehicle, guided by an experienced driver familiar with the most efficient routes. This shuttle offers well-maintained MPVs or commuter vans accommodating up to 10 people, a standard luggage allowance, and one infant seat, with the flexibility to accommodate specific needs upon request within our scope. For anyone seeking a reliable and budget-friendly transfer, this shuttle provides strong value for small groups like families and even solo travelers.

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Specialized infant seats are available

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Each passenger is allowed to take 1 x Small items of luggage & 1 x Backpack / Rucksack (Max. 100 Liters).

The pickup window is between 10.00 to 10.30 AM. Therefore, passengers are requested to be prepared for the departure within the pickup window. Since it's a shared shuttle, kindly do note that the maximum waiting time is 5 minutes and no refunds will be issued for "no-show" bookings.

Important notes

After the reservation is confirmed, a check-in email will be sent. Once the check-in is completed, the booking voucher e-ticket will be issued and should be presented to the driver at pickup.

About Yala National Park

Yala National Park is the most visited and second largest national park in Sri Lanka, renowned for its high density of leopards and diverse wildlife. It offers a thrilling safari experience through its varied ecosystems, including forests, scrublands, and coastal lagoons.

Top Attractions

Leopard Safaris

Yala National Park is famous for its high density of leopards. Jeep safaris offer the best opportunity to spot these elusive big cats in their natural habitat.

Wildlife 3-4 hours Moderate (Approximately LKR 3,500 to LKR 5,000 per jeep)

Kumana National Park

Adjacent to Yala, Kumana is a smaller park known for its birdwatching opportunities and scenic beauty. It's a great place to see migratory birds and other wildlife.

Nature Half day to full day Moderate (Approximately LKR 1,500 to LKR 3,000 per jeep)

Sithulpawwa Rock Temple

This ancient Buddhist temple is located within Yala National Park and is a significant religious site. It offers a glimpse into Sri Lanka's rich cultural heritage.

Historical 1-2 hours Free (Donations welcome)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Rice and Curry

A traditional Sri Lankan dish consisting of rice served with a variety of curries, including vegetables, meat, and fish.

Main Course Vegetarian and non-vegetarian options available.

Hoppers (Appa)

Bowl-shaped pancakes made from fermented rice flour and coconut milk, often served with an egg in the center.

Breakfast Vegetarian (can be made vegan).

Kottu Roti

A popular street food made from chopped roti dough, vegetables, and meat, stir-fried with spices.

Lunch/Dinner Vegetarian and non-vegetarian options available.

Popular Activities

Jeep safaris Hiking Birdwatching Boat rides Beach visits Nature walks Temple visits Festivals

Best Time to Visit

February to August

This is the best time to visit Yala National Park as the weather is dry and ideal for wildlife spotting. The park is open for safaris, and the chances of seeing leopards and other wildlife are high.

28°C to 32°C 82°F to 90°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Sinhala, Tamil
Widely spoken: English
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR)

Time Zone

GMT+5:30

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Yala National Park and its surrounding areas are generally safe for travelers. However, it's important to follow park rules and regulations, and be aware of your surroundings.

Important Precautions:

• Use licensed guides and operators for safaris.
• Agree on prices before starting your journey.
• Be cautious of your belongings in crowded areas.

Getting there

By air

Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport • 100 km (62 miles)

By train

Tissamaharama Railway Station

By bus

Tissamaharama Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Taxis are available for transport to and from the park but are not used for safaris within the park.

Taxis

Available • Apps: PickMe

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Tissamaharama Kataragama

Day trips

Bundala National Park

50 km (31 miles) • Full day

Bundala National Park is a wetland park known for its birdwatching opportunities and diverse wildlife. It's a great place to see migratory birds and other wildlife.

Morawewa Lagoon

30 km (19 miles) • Half day

Morawewa Lagoon is a scenic lagoon known for its birdwatching opportunities and peaceful atmosphere. It's a great place to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.

Festivals

Esala Perahera Festival • July or August (depending on the lunar calendar)

Pro tips

Book your safaris in advance, especially during peak season, to secure the best guides and jeeps.
Wake up early for your safaris to increase your chances of spotting wildlife, especially leopards.
Bring binoculars and a camera with a good zoom lens for the best wildlife viewing and photography experience.
Dress in neutral-colored clothing that blends in with the natural environment to avoid drawing attention to yourself.
Respect the park's rules and regulations, and follow your guide's instructions for a safe and enjoyable experience.