Minneriya National Park

Minneriya National Park, located in the North Central Province of Sri Lanka, is renowned for its rich biodiversity and historical significance. Covering an area of approximately 89 square kilometers, the park is centered around the ancient Minneriya Tank, a reservoir built by King Mahasen in the 3rd century AD. The park is most famous for the “Gathering,” an annual event where hundreds of Asian elephants congregate around the Minneriya Tank during the dry season, making it one of the largest elephant gatherings in the world. In addition to elephants, the park is home to a variety of wildlife, including leopards, sloth bears, and a diverse array of bird species, making it a popular destination for wildlife enthusiasts and bird watchers. The park’s landscapes range from wetlands and grasslands to dense forests, providing a picturesque setting for eco-tourism and nature photography.