Minneriya National Park, in Sri Lanka's North Central Province, is renowned for its large elephant populations, particularly during the dry season when they gather at the Minneriya Tank. The park was established in 1997, originally as a wildlife sanctuary in 1938, with the goal of protecting the catchment area of the Minneriya Tank and its surrounding wildlife. The Minneriya Tank, built by King Mahasen in the 3rd century AD, is a vital part of the park's ecosystem, attracting elephants and various bird species.
Key Features and Attractions:
Elephant Gathering:
The park is famous for its large herds of elephants, which can reach hundreds during the dry season (May to September). The Minneriya Tank serves as a crucial feeding ground and water source for these animals.
Minneriya Tank:
This ancient reservoir, built by King Mahasen, is the park's centerpiece and a major attraction for both elephants and visitors.
Fauna and Flora:
Besides elephants, the park supports diverse wildlife, including sambar deer, toque macaques, various bird species, and even the rare leopard and sloth bear. The park's habitats range from low-canopy forests to scrublands, grasslands, and wetlands.
Historical Significance:
The park's origins are linked to the historical Minneriya Tank and its role in irrigating surrounding agricultural lands.
Important Bird Area (IBA):
Minneriya is one of Sri Lanka's Important Bird Areas, attracting a wide variety of avian species, both resident and migratory.
Elephant Corridor:
The park is part of the elephant corridor, connecting it to other parks like Kaudulla and Wasgomuwa, allowing for the movement of elephants.
Dry Season:
The dry season (May to September) is the best time to visit for the "Gathering" of elephants, as the water levels in the tank recede, exposing more vegetation for grazing.
Key Features and Attractions:
Elephant Gathering:
The park is famous for its large herds of elephants, which can reach hundreds during the dry season (May to September). The Minneriya Tank serves as a crucial feeding ground and water source for these animals.
Minneriya Tank:
This ancient reservoir, built by King Mahasen, is the park's centerpiece and a major attraction for both elephants and visitors.
Fauna and Flora:
Besides elephants, the park supports diverse wildlife, including sambar deer, toque macaques, various bird species, and even the rare leopard and sloth bear. The park's habitats range from low-canopy forests to scrublands, grasslands, and wetlands.
Historical Significance:
The park's origins are linked to the historical Minneriya Tank and its role in irrigating surrounding agricultural lands.
Important Bird Area (IBA):
Minneriya is one of Sri Lanka's Important Bird Areas, attracting a wide variety of avian species, both resident and migratory.
Elephant Corridor:
The park is part of the elephant corridor, connecting it to other parks like Kaudulla and Wasgomuwa, allowing for the movement of elephants.
Dry Season:
The dry season (May to September) is the best time to visit for the "Gathering" of elephants, as the water levels in the tank recede, exposing more vegetation for grazing.
