Minneriya reservoir and its surrounding wetland habitat is inhabited by a large number of a aquatic bird species in addition to elephants. Early morning and late evening are the optimum observation times of the day for resident and migratory birds. Flock of about 2000 little cormorant (Phalacrocorax niger) diving in the waters of Minneriya reservoir is not a rare scene. In addition painted strokes (Mycteria leucocephala), Great white pelicans (Pelicanus anocrotalus), Ruddy turnstones (Arenaria interpres) and Grey herons (Ardea cinerea) too can be seen.
The best season to view the large Elephant herds gathering at the banks of the water reservoir is the dry season from June to Sept. Sambar and Spotted deer are other wild animals roam the park.
The park covers an area of approximately 8900 Ha.
The Minneriya National Park is located in the north–central plains (North-East Province) Sri Lanka, 20 km from Polonnaruwa. From Colombo is about 182 km journey.
After the Minneriya National Park in 1938 was advertised as a nature reserve, he offered in 1997 to the National Park.
Even though it is one of the smallest national parks in the country for only 8,889 acres, it is a paradise with many natural wonders.
Minneriya National Park are for current counts for about wild elephants have found a home.
The Minneriya National Park consists of mixed evergreen forest and scrub, and is home to sambar deer, leopards and elephants.
But the central feature of the park is the ancient Minneriya tank (built in the 3rd century. BC. King Mahasena).
During the dry season (June to September), this tank is the place that serves the animals as a water source to which the elephants come to bathe and browse.
Huge flocks of birds (cormorants and storks, to name a few), there are also a.
Besides the many elephants are especially monkeys, leopards, deer and bears in this area.
Getting to the Minneriya National Park
The main entrance to the Minneriya National Park is located opposite Habarana – Polonnaruwa road (A11).
From Colombo: Habarana junction via Kurunegala, Dambulla (A1, A6), turn right towards Habarana Polonnaruwa.
10 km towards Polonnaruwa to Minneriya National Park.
The distance from Colombo is about 182km and about 4-5 hours drive.
Weather and Season
The best months to visit Minneriya National Park are the dry months ago by June to September.
Hundreds of elephants are in the vicinity of the Minneriya Lake, which is transformed into a green grass landscape, tightened.
To visit the Minneriya National Park should be scheduled at least 2-3 hours.
