Minneriya National Park is one of the significant national parks out of the few present in Sri Lanka and has become a frequent place of visit by tourists and locals. This park for the wild was originated as one on the 12th August 1997. The main reason of making it a national wildlife sanctuary is because to protect the animals in the area and also to protect the Minneriya tank. This tank is with much historical importance which dates back to 3rd Century AD. That is when King Mahasen built this magnificent tank during his reign.After the war the park was visited by thousands of tourists and it earned revenue of 10.7 million in just six months during 2009. The Minneriya wild life arena is one of the frequent places visited by elephants residing in Polonaruwa, Matale and Trincomolee districts. You will come across many types of vegetation in Minneriya like Scrublands, chenas, wetlands, secondary forests and grasslands. Minneriya is situated in the dry area of Sri Lanka where the normal rainfall is around 1500 -2000 mm and the temperature ranging from 20.60C to 34. 50C. the tank is built from the rivers Elahera and Amban diverted to one spot. Sometimes the elephants in the park can get aggressive so it’s advised not to get closer or get off from your vehicle. There have been tragic incidents in the past to both elephants and humans so it’s wise to be careful at all times. According to research they have found 24 species of mammals, 75 species of butterflies, 160 species of birds, 25 species of reptiles, 26 species of fish and 9 species of amphibians in the forest.
You can see flocks of elephants around the reservoir during the dry season. The main reason for the visits of tourists is because of the elephants who visit the forest in large numbers during the dry season. You can choose one of the best Sri Lanka Boutique Hotels for your stay to have an unforgettable holiday in Sri Lanka. Maalu Maalu Resort & Spa is a great Sri Lanka Resort that you can try out while you are on vacation.
Thanuja Silva is a travel writer who writes under the pen name Auburn Silver. She has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
