Minneriya National Park, located in the North Central Province of Sri Lanka, is a stunning natural reserve that epitomizes the country’s rich ecological heritage. Spanning approximately 88.9 square kilometers, the park was declared a wildlife sanctuary in 1938 and later elevated to national park status in 1997. The park’s centerpiece is the ancient Minneriya Tank, a reservoir constructed by King Mahasen in the 3rd century AD, which plays a crucial role in sustaining the park’s diverse ecosystems.

One of Minneriya’s most famous attractions is “The Gathering,” an annual event recognized as one of the greatest wildlife spectacles in the world. During the dry season, from July to September, hundreds of Asian elephants migrate to the park, drawn by the receding waters of the Minneriya Tank, which expose fresh grasslands. This gathering of elephants, sometimes numbering over 300, is one of the largest in Asia and offers an unparalleled opportunity to observe these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. The sight of so many elephants, including playful calves, against the backdrop of the ancient tank, is truly mesmerizing.

Beyond elephants, Minneriya National Park is a haven for a wide variety of wildlife. The park is home to sambar deer, leopards, sloth bears, and a rich diversity of bird species, including endemics like the Sri Lanka grey hornbill. The park’s diverse habitats, ranging from dry tropical forests and grasslands to wetlands, support this incredible range of fauna. The flora of the park is equally diverse, with evergreen shrubs and ancient trees dotting the landscape.