Starting today (1 January 2024), only guests accompanied by licensed safari jeep drivers will be permitted to enter the Yala National Park.
The Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA), in a notice, mentioned that safari jeep drivers with licences issued by the Department of Wildlife Conservation will be allowed to transport guests into the national park. The decision has been taken in a bid to improve wildlife tourism in the country.
The SLTDA further mentioned that the main road to the Yala National Park from Palatupana would remain closed until further notice, due to repairs. Accordingly, those who are visiting the national park are advised to use the Katagamuwa entrance, the notice further read.