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Check prices for these dates

Tonight
19 Oct - 20 Oct
Tomorrow
20 Oct - 21 Oct
This weekend
23 Oct - 25 Oct
Next weekend
30 Oct - 1 Nov

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Our top choices for Yala hotels

A spacious indoor area with large windows, a pool table, and multiple seating arrangements.
A swimming pool with lounge chairs and umbrellas, surrounded by greenery and buildings.
A modern living room with a hanging wicker chair, a sofa, and a coffee table.
A bedroom with a four-poster bed, a sofa, a coffee table, and a view of the outdoors through large sliding doors.

1. Jetwing Yala

Jetwing Yala
Tissamaharama
Guest highlights
  • Beautiful large pool area
  • Quality buffet dining options
  • Packed breakfast and dinner buffets
AU$222
includes taxes & fees
21 Oct - 22 Oct
Jetwing Yala
A room with a wooden floor, a bed with a canopy, a bench, and a bathtub.
A couple dining on a wooden deck with a view of the Milky Way.
An elevated, circular structure with a thatched roof, surrounded by a wooden deck and seating area, set in a forested landscape.
A room with a wooden floor, a table, and a chair. There are windows with curtains, and a view of trees outside.

2. Yala Safari Camping

Yala Safari Camping
Kataragama
AU$363
includes taxes & fees
25 Oct - 26 Oct
Yala Safari Camping
A modern resort with multiple buildings, a central pool area, and surrounding greenery.
A rooftop terrace with outdoor seating and a view of a pool.
A modern hotel room with a large bed, a sofa, a dining table, and a telescope.
A modern restaurant with a long dining table, multiple seating areas, and a large window offering a city view.

3. Hilton Yala Resort

Hilton Yala Resort
Thissamaharama
Guest highlights
  • Lovely location with a small pool
  • Incredible value for the price
  • Very responsive and professional staff
AU$694
includes taxes & fees
15 Nov - 16 Nov
Hilton Yala Resort
A room with a glass table and two sofas facing a beach view through an arched window.
An outdoor swimming pool with a wooden deck, surrounded by trees and a clear view of the landscape.
A spacious lounge area with wooden furniture, a bar, and a view of the beach.
Two thatched-roof structures with outdoor seating areas, surrounded by greenery and a starry night sky.

4. Uga Chena Huts - Yala - All Inclusive

Uga Chena Huts - Yala - All Inclusive
Tissamaharama
Guest highlights
  • Beautiful location near Yesi Beach
  • Wonderful food that exceeded expectations
  • Professional and efficient staff service
AU$1,167
includes taxes & fees
20 Oct - 21 Oct
Uga Chena Huts - Yala - All Inclusive
An outdoor dining area with a table set for two, surrounded by chairs, overlooking a body of water.
An outdoor seating area with wooden furniture, a bar, and hanging light fixtures.
A modern building with a covered walkway, trees, and benches.
A restaurant with tables set for dining, hanging wicker pendant lights, and large windows offering a view of greenery.

5. Cinnamon Wild Yala

Cinnamon Wild Yala
Kirinda
Guest highlights
  • Delicious food and dining on offer
  • Inviting on-site swimming pool
  • Breakfast buffet is a must try
Cinnamon Wild Yala
A resort with a swimming pool, lush greenery, and a view of a large lake and mountains.
A restaurant with wooden tables and wicker chairs, large windows, and hanging light fixtures.
A modern hotel with a large outdoor swimming pool, a covered bar area, and a well-lit exterior.
A modern bar area with a wooden counter, bar stools, and a glass enclosure with a view of the outdoors.

6. DoubleTree by Hilton Weerawila Rajawarna Resort

DoubleTree by Hilton Weerawila Rajawarna Resort
Weerawila
Guest highlights
  • Beautifully maintained property
  • Inviting on-site swimming pool
  • Delicious food and dining on offer
AU$176
includes taxes & fees
2 Nov - 3 Nov
DoubleTree by Hilton Weerawila Rajawarna Resort
Front of property
Aerial view
Property amenity
Room

7. Laya Safari

Laya Safari
Thissamaharama
Guest highlights
  • Friendly and helpful staff
  • Inviting on-site swimming pool
AU$209
includes taxes & fees
19 Oct - 20 Oct
Laya Safari
A large bed with a white and black bedspread, two nightstands with lamps, a wooden chair, and a view of greenery through a sliding glass door.
A modern staircase with a glass balustrade leading to a covered outdoor area.
A modern bedroom with a large bed, a ceiling fan, and a TV on a cabinet.
A dining table with plates of food, including sausages, eggs, and toast. There are also condiments and a bottle of juice.

8. The Den at Yala

The Den at Yala
Kataragama
Guest highlights
  • Authentic Sri Lankan dishes served
  • Peaceful garden to explore
AU$249
includes taxes & fees
30 Oct - 31 Oct
The Den at Yala
A poolside area with lounge chairs and umbrellas, surrounded by trees and greenery.
A hotel room with a bed, bedside tables, a desk, and a chair.
A bedroom with a bed, a television, a wardrobe, a dining area with chairs, and a view of the outdoors.
A building with a covered patio area, a small garden with a trimmed bush, and a pathway leading to the entrance.

9. Grand Tamarind Lake

Grand Tamarind Lake
Kataragama
Guest highlights
  • Delicious food and dining on offer
  • Beautiful terrace with views
AU$128
includes taxes & fees
20 Oct - 21 Oct
Grand Tamarind Lake
A wooden deck with a table and chairs, a potted plant, and a view of a building and water.
A modern living room with a sofa, a dining area, and a view of greenery through large windows.
A spacious lobby with wooden furniture, large windows offering a view of the outdoors, and a ceiling with recessed lighting.
A lakeside hotel with outdoor seating, a large tree, and modern buildings.

10. EKHO Safari Tissa

EKHO Safari Tissa
Thissamaharama
Guest highlights
  • Breathtaking views of Tissa Lake
  • Good breakfast buffet with delicious options
  • Large, clean pool with great loungers
AU$152
includes taxes & fees
22 Oct - 23 Oct
EKHO Safari Tissa
A serene lakeside setting with lounge chairs and an umbrella, overlooking a calm body of water and distant mountains.
A beach with large boulders and a sunset in the background.
A pathway flanked by wooden posts and lush greenery, leading to a building.
A room with a patterned ceiling, wooden furniture, and a stone floor.

11. Thaulle Pure Ayurveda Resort - Yala

Thaulle Pure Ayurveda Resort - Yala
Thissamaharama
Guest highlights
  • Beautiful location near the beach
  • Competitively priced for the area
  • Responsive staff providing great service
Thaulle Pure Ayurveda Resort - Yala
A swimming pool with lounge chairs and a building in the background.
A symmetrical building with a central corridor flanked by rooms, a green lawn, and a mountain in the background.
A spacious lobby with a wooden floor, a reception desk, and potted plants.
A spacious dining hall with multiple tables set for service, wooden chairs, and a high ceiling with hanging decorations.

12. Mandara Rosen

Mandara Rosen
Kataragama
AU$181
includes taxes & fees
19 Oct - 20 Oct
Mandara Rosen
A swimming pool with a wooden deck and wicker furniture, surrounded by a building with large windows and outdoor lighting.
A spacious bedroom with a large bed, a wooden nightstand, a chair, and a view of the outdoors through a sliding door.
A restaurant with wooden tables and chairs, decorative panels, and potted plants.
A modern living room with a brick wall, a flat-screen TV, a sofa, and a dining table.

13. Wild Culture Yala

Wild Culture Yala
Yala
Guest highlights
  • Delicious meals at the restaurant
  • Beautiful property with modern rooms
  • Helpful and responsive staff
AU$206
includes taxes & fees
20 Oct - 21 Oct
Wild Culture Yala
A dining area with a view of a swimming pool and lush greenery.
A dining table set for four with chairs, plates, cutlery, and napkins.
A swimming pool with a wooden bench, a covered seating area, and a building with large windows and a balcony.
A hotel room with two beds, a green sofa, a ceiling fan, and a decorative wall piece.

14. Yala Hotel Elephant Eye

Yala Hotel Elephant Eye
Thissamaharama
Guest highlights
  • Easy walk to local shops
  • Friendly and hardworking staff
AU$53
includes taxes & fees
19 Oct - 20 Oct
Yala Hotel Elephant Eye
Outdoor pool
Balcony
Restaurant
Reception

15. Oak Ray Wild Yala

Oak Ray Wild Yala
Thissamaharama
Guest highlights
  • Gorgeous and meticulously maintained pool
  • Great restaurant down the street
  • Fabulous and very nice staff
AU$182
includes taxes & fees
1 Nov - 2 Nov
Oak Ray Wild Yala
A large, white building with multiple arched windows and a central courtyard with a pool.
A large, white building with a central courtyard and a swimming pool.
A modern lounge with curved seating and large windows offering a view of palm trees and buildings.
A hotel room with a bed, a desk, a chair, a telephone, and a painting on the wall.

16. Kynrock Hotels & Resorts

Kynrock Hotels & Resorts
Kataragama
Guest highlights
  • Large swimming pool with great size
  • Magnificent views from the property
  • Excellent team from check-in onwards
AU$125
includes taxes & fees
25 Oct - 26 Oct
Kynrock Hotels & Resorts
A hotel with a pool reflecting palm trees and a building with balconies.
A buffet with various dishes including salads, vegetables, and a variety of other food options.
A spacious lobby with high ceilings, a central seating area, and large windows providing natural light.
An outdoor dining area with a table set for breakfast, including fruits, pastries, and beverages, overlooking a swimming pool and lush greenery.

17. Kithala Resort

Kithala Resort
Thissamaharama
AU$144
includes taxes & fees
21 Oct - 22 Oct
Kithala Resort
A rustic outdoor area with thatched-roof huts, lanterns, and a pathway.
A hotel room with two beds, wooden flooring, and a large window with curtains.
Two people dining at an outdoor table with a thatched roof, surrounded by greenery and a night sky.
A restaurant interior with wooden tables and benches, a thatched roof, and hanging light fixtures.

18. Saffron Lake Yala

Saffron Lake Yala
Thissamaharama
AU$76
includes taxes & fees
2 Nov - 3 Nov
Saffron Lake Yala
A poolside area with lounge chairs and umbrellas, surrounded by buildings with balconies and a clear sky.
A spacious indoor area with high ceilings and columns, featuring a central open space with seating and plants.
An indoor dining area with wooden tables and chairs, a counter with a reflective surface, and pendant lighting.
A balcony with a view of a swimming pool, palm trees, and a stone wall.

19. Tamarind Tree Hotel

Tamarind Tree Hotel
Thissamaharama
Guest highlights
  • Great base for Safaris
  • Generally very good restaurant options
  • Awesome pool with Sun loungers
AU$124
includes taxes & fees
19 Oct - 20 Oct
Tamarind Tree Hotel
A swimming pool surrounded by lush greenery and stone seating areas.
A spacious indoor area with a high ceiling, concrete pillars, and seating areas with orange cushions.
A spacious room with a ceiling fan, a large window with metal bars, a green accent wall, and a seating area with cushions.
A room with wicker chairs, a small table, a plant, and a green wall.

20. My Village

My Village
Thissamaharama
AU$113
includes taxes & fees
18 Nov - 19 Nov
My Village
View all properties

Hotels recommended for families in Yala

A wooden deck with a railing, surrounded by trees and illuminated by hanging lanterns.
A cozy room with a curved wooden ceiling, a large bed with patterned pillows, and curtains.
A tented room with two blue chairs, a wooden table, a painting, and a small wooden table with bottles.
A treehouse with a wooden exterior and a metal roof, surrounded by dense forest.

Leopard Nest in Yala

Leopard Nest in Yala
Tissamaharama
AU$368
includes taxes & fees
18 Nov - 19 Nov
Leopard Nest in Yala
A spacious indoor area with large windows, a pool table, and multiple seating arrangements.
A swimming pool with lounge chairs and umbrellas, surrounded by greenery and buildings.
A modern living room with a hanging wicker chair, a sofa, and a coffee table.
A bedroom with a four-poster bed, a sofa, a coffee table, and a view of the outdoors through large sliding doors.

Jetwing Yala

Jetwing Yala
Tissamaharama
AU$222
includes taxes & fees
21 Oct - 22 Oct
Jetwing Yala
A large, white building with multiple arched windows and a central courtyard with a pool.
A large, white building with a central courtyard and a swimming pool.
A modern lounge with curved seating and large windows offering a view of palm trees and buildings.
A hotel room with a bed, a desk, a chair, a telephone, and a painting on the wall.

Kynrock Hotels & Resorts

Kynrock Hotels & Resorts
Kataragama
AU$125
includes taxes & fees
25 Oct - 26 Oct
Kynrock Hotels & Resorts
A traditional wooden door, two wooden chairs with cushions, a small table with a bowl and two pumpkins, and a window with a view of greenery.
A neatly made bed with white linens and two pillows, a fruit basket with various fruits and a rolled towel on a wooden table beside the bed.
A serene lakeside landscape with trees and a sunset.
A table with a plate of sliced fruits and two glasses of orange juice.

Wadula Safari Yala

Wadula Safari Yala
Kataragama
AU$68
includes taxes & fees
19 Oct - 20 Oct
Wadula Safari Yala
A swimming pool with lounge chairs and a building in the background.
A symmetrical building with a central corridor flanked by rooms, a green lawn, and a mountain in the background.
A spacious lobby with a wooden floor, a reception desk, and potted plants.
A spacious dining hall with multiple tables set for service, wooden chairs, and a high ceiling with hanging decorations.

Mandara Rosen

Mandara Rosen
Kataragama
AU$181
includes taxes & fees
19 Oct - 20 Oct
Mandara Rosen
A resort with a swimming pool, lush greenery, and a view of a large lake and mountains.
A restaurant with wooden tables and wicker chairs, large windows, and hanging light fixtures.
A modern hotel with a large outdoor swimming pool, a covered bar area, and a well-lit exterior.
A modern bar area with a wooden counter, bar stools, and a glass enclosure with a view of the outdoors.

DoubleTree by Hilton Weerawila Rajawarna Resort

DoubleTree by Hilton Weerawila Rajawarna Resort
Weerawila
AU$176
includes taxes & fees
2 Nov - 3 Nov
DoubleTree by Hilton Weerawila Rajawarna Resort
A swimming pool surrounded by lush greenery and stone seating areas.
A spacious indoor area with a high ceiling, concrete pillars, and seating areas with orange cushions.
A spacious room with a ceiling fan, a large window with metal bars, a green accent wall, and a seating area with cushions.
A room with wicker chairs, a small table, a plant, and a green wall.

My Village

My Village
Thissamaharama
AU$113
includes taxes & fees
18 Nov - 19 Nov
My Village
An outdoor seating area with stone tables and chairs, a pool, and a thatched roof structure.
A bedroom with a canopy bed, a round table, two chairs, and a view of the outdoors.
An indoor setting with a high, arched ceiling structure, stone flooring, and seating arrangements.
An outdoor seating area with wooden furniture and a thatched roof structure.

Wild Coast Tented Lodge - Relais and Chateaux - All Inclusive

Wild Coast Tented Lodge - Relais and Chateaux - All Inclusive
Tissamaharama
AU$1,402
includes taxes & fees
23 Oct - 24 Oct
Wild Coast Tented Lodge - Relais and Chateaux - All Inclusive
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Stay near popular Yala attractions

Patanangala Tsunami Memorial

6.0/10 (2 reviews)
You can find out about the history of Yala with a visit to Patanangala Tsunami Memorial. Amble around the area's parks or seek out its safari tours.
See properties

Learn more about Yala

Head to sights like Yala National Park and Patanangala Tsunami Memorial as you discover Yala.

See all hotels in Yala
A leopard sitting on a large rock surrounded by trees.
Photo by Olivia-Petra Coman

Top Yala Hotel Reviews

Recent Reviews in Yala

Kynrock Hotels & Resorts

Kynrock Hotels & Resorts

10/10 Excellent
"My dad and I spent two nights in this beautiful hotel. The staff were very friendly and helpful from the check-in to check-out. Property was very well maintained and conveniently located near Kiri vehera and Wadasity kanda. We had Sri Lankan style breakfast and it was delicious and came in generously large portions. Hotel arranged our Yala safari tour and were willing to pack our breakfast for the early morning trip. I highly recommend Kynrock hotel."
Shamal 2-night trip
Posted 2 weeks ago
Kynrock Hotels & Resorts
Yala Safari Camping

Yala Safari Camping

10/10 Excellent
"Our stay at Yala Safari Camping was absolutely amazing! The staff greeted us at the meeting point outside the park and organized a private ride to the glamping tents. When we arrived there was a home cooked Sri Lankan lunch waiting for us. Our room was very clean, air conditioned and equipped with everything we could need. It was also beautifully nestled into the jungle with amazing views and surrounded by wildlife. The safari tour was great, our guide was very helpful and made sure we had a great view of everything, we even saw a leopard! Thank you so much for making our stay so incredible and memorable!!"
Rachel 1-night trip
Posted 1 month ago
Yala Safari Camping
Saffron Lake Yala

Saffron Lake Yala

10/10 Excellent
"By far the most pleasant stay in Sri Lanka this far and considering the standard of hospitality in Sri Lanka this hotel was exceptional. The staff could not be more amazing. We stayed two nights and certainly wish we stayed longer. 10/ 10 would recommend"
Finn 2-night trip
Posted 1 month ago
Saffron Lake Yala
Hilton Yala Resort

Hilton Yala Resort

10/10 Excellent
"Amazing experience, 10/10 service highly recommend"
Sakib 2-night trip
Posted 2 months ago
Hilton Yala Resort
EKHO Safari Tissa

EKHO Safari Tissa

10/10 Excellent
"N"
MOHAMED AJAJ 2-night trip
Posted 2 months ago
EKHO Safari Tissa
Wild Culture Yala

Wild Culture Yala

10/10 Excellent
"This was such a peaceful relaxing place I extended my stay. Lovely tasty food and a great base for yala safari’s."
Danielle 2-night trip
Posted 2 months ago
Wild Culture Yala
Jetwing Yala

Jetwing Yala

10/10 Excellent
"Lovely resort! Anthony at the lounge bar is friendly and give top notch service. We had an amazing experience at the bach"
Audrey 2-night trip
Posted 3 months ago
Jetwing Yala
Wadula Safari Yala

Wadula Safari Yala

10/10 Excellent
"I had a wonderful stay. The surroundings are beautiful, with palm trees and a lake right in front of the room. It is the most beautiful location I have experienced so far in Sri Lanka. The hosts are incredibly kind and welcoming. They took me for a walk to the lake, organized a safari for me, and arranged a reliable driver at a very reasonable price. Everything was perfectly organized. The food was excellent. The curry was the best I have had in Sri Lanka, and the fresh breakfast was delicious. The room and bathroom are in a private little bungalow. Everything was spacious, spotless, modern, and very well maintained. The room had air conditioning, complimentary drinking water, shampoo, and a wide selection of toiletries. I highly recommend this place and would happily stay here again."
Deborah 1-night trip
Posted 3 months ago
Wadula Safari Yala
Jetwing Jungle Lodge, A Luxury Reserve

Jetwing Jungle Lodge, A Luxury Reserve

10/10 Excellent
"the hotel was simply wornderfull , peacefull , beatifull . the food was delicius and the landscape is incredible."
LUIS FELIPE 1-night trip
Posted 4 months ago
Jetwing Jungle Lodge, A Luxury Reserve

More cheap accommodation in Yala

River Shade Inn

River Shade Inn

522/D Gangasiripura Tissamaharama Southern Province
AU$21
19 Oct - 20 Oct
includes taxes & fees
8/10 Very good! (1 review)
River Shade Inn
Lavendish Tamarind Lifestyle

Lavendish Tamarind Lifestyle

Raja Mawatha Kataragama Uva
AU$66
19 Oct - 20 Oct
includes taxes & fees
7.2/10 Good! (5 reviews)
Lavendish Tamarind Lifestyle
yala caravan village

yala caravan village

No. 84 Gurugoda, Palatupana Thissamaharama
AU$78
30 Oct - 31 Oct
includes taxes & fees
yala caravan village
Rain Tree by Oak Ray

Rain Tree by Oak Ray

Sandugama Mawath, Tissamaharama Hambantota
AU$96
19 Oct - 20 Oct
includes taxes & fees
Rain Tree by Oak Ray
Ekho Safari Tissa Hotel

Ekho Safari Tissa Hotel

The Safari, Kataragama Road, TISSAMAHARAMA Thissamaharama Southern Province
AU$100
25 Oct - 26 Oct
includes taxes & fees
Ekho Safari Tissa Hotel
Art Yala

Art Yala

Court Road, Tikiriudanapura Thissamaharama Southern Province
AU$105
22 Oct - 23 Oct
includes taxes & fees
8/10 Very good! (12 reviews)
Art Yala

Find out more about Yala

Top reasons to visit Yala

  • Thrilling Safari Adventures: Experience the excitement of Yala National Park, renowned for its rich biodiversity and opportunities to see wildlife, including leopards and elephants.
  • Stunning Natural Landscapes: Enjoy the breathtaking scenery, from lush jungles to picturesque coastlines, perfect for nature lovers and photographers.
  • Cultural Exploration: Visit local temples and monasteries to immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and traditions of the region.
  • Outdoor Activities: Engage in various outdoor pursuits, such as hiking and birdwatching, catering to adventure enthusiasts.
  • Variety of Accommodations: Choose from luxurious resorts to unique safari tents, offering a comfortable stay amidst natural beauty.

Find great hotels near Yala

Discover a variety of accommodation options in Yala, Southern Province, Sri Lanka, where you'll find both hotels and safari tent lodgings to suit your preferences. Whether you seek a luxurious beachside resort or a unique safari experience, Yala offers top hotels equipped with essential services for business and leisure travellers alike. Embrace the natural beauty of the area while enjoying a comfortable stay tailored to your holiday needs.

  • Cinnamon Wild Yala: Nestled in the heart of nature, Cinnamon Wild Yala offers an exquisite blend of luxury and eco-friendly living with a guest rating of 9.0. Located 10km from Yala, this hotel is designed for travellers seeking an immersive experience in sustainable tourism. Featuring charming accommodations that seamlessly integrate with the surrounding environment, guests can enjoy amenities such as an outdoor pool, a spa, and guided wildlife safaris. Its commitment to eco-certification makes it an excellent choice for those prioritising sustainability while seeking a luxurious retreat.
  • Jetwing Yala: With a remarkable guest rating of 9.2, Jetwing Yala is a sanctuary for eco-conscious travellers, situated 10km from Yala. This hotel embodies a contemporary aesthetic infused with natural elements, offering a luxurious experience without compromising on sustainability. Guests can indulge in a range of amenities, including a stunning infinity pool, wellness treatments, and exceptional dining options that highlight local flavours. Its eco-certification and dedication to preserving the environment make it an ideal choice for both relaxation and adventure.
  • Wild Coast Tented Lodge - Relais and Chateaux - All Inclusive: Achieving a perfect guest rating of 10.0, Wild Coast Tented Lodge offers a unique experience for those seeking a beachside family holiday just 10km from Yala. This luxurious safari tent accommodation combines adventure with comfort, featuring direct beach access and a variety of family-friendly amenities, including a children’s club and games tailored for younger guests. With all-inclusive services, it provides an enchanting escape where nature meets luxury, ensuring an unforgettable stay.

Where to stay near Yala

Yala, nestled in Sri Lanka's Southern Province, offers an exhilarating escape for adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. With its proximity to Yala National Park, visitors can embark on thrilling safari experiences, explore the vibrant landscapes, and witness diverse wildlife. Beyond the park, the charming village of Yala serves as a gateway to stunning scenery and outdoor adventures, making it an ideal destination for those seeking both relaxation and excitement in the heart of nature.

  • Palatupana: Nestled approximately 11km from Yala, Palatupana is a charming village that offers a delightful blend of outdoor adventure and scenic beauty. With a moderately seasonal influx of visitors, the peak times in January and September to October attract nature enthusiasts seeking thrilling experiences. The village is ideally situated near a national park and stunning beaches, providing ample opportunities for exploration. Golf aficionados will appreciate the nearby golf course and private club, making it a fantastic spot for leisure and recreation amidst picturesque surroundings.
  • Galkaduwa: Located just 10km from Yala, Galkaduwa is another quaint village that draws visitors with its breathtaking views and outdoor activities. The travel experience here is enriched by the proximity to a national park and a family-friendly beach, perfect for those looking to unwind and connect with nature. Peak visitor seasons occur from December to February, attracting those eager for adventure and scenic landscapes. Galkaduwa's tranquil atmosphere makes it an ideal destination for families and solo travellers seeking a peaceful retreat.
  • Kirinda: Situated around 18km from Yala, Kirinda is a vibrant city that offers a range of outdoor and adventure activities year-round. With visitor numbers peaking in March to April and September, the city is not overly seasonal, allowing for a unique exploration experience at any time. Kirinda boasts a recreation park and educational venues, catering to both leisure and learning. The nearby national park and inviting beaches enhance its appeal, making Kirinda a perfect getaway for those looking to immerse themselves in nature while enjoying a lively atmosphere.

Things to do in Yala

Yala, located in the Southern Province of Sri Lanka, offers a perfect blend of outdoor and adventure activities. Visitors can indulge in thrilling safari excursions and wildlife tours, exploring the rich biodiversity of the region. For those seeking relaxation, there are also opportunities for golf at private country clubs. With organised tours available, Yala promises rewarding adventures amidst stunning scenery.

Shopping

For local crafts and souvenirs, visit the nearby Yala National Park gift shop, showcasing unique handmade items. If you're up for a drive, head to the bustling town of Tissamaharama, approximately 24km away, where you'll find vibrant markets and shops offering a variety of local goods and handicrafts.

Recreation

Experience tranquillity at the serene wellness retreats in Yala, offering holistic treatments amidst nature. Engage in rejuvenating yoga sessions, enjoy therapeutic spa treatments, and savour nourishing local cuisine, all while surrounded by the breathtaking landscapes of Sri Lanka's Southern Province.

Adventure

Explore Yala National Park on a thrilling safari, where you can encounter diverse wildlife, including leopards and elephants, in their natural habitat. For a unique experience, consider a guided night safari to witness the park's nocturnal animals and the enchanting sounds of the wilderness.

Nightlife

In Yala, enjoy a relaxed evening at a local beachside bar, where fresh seafood and tropical cocktails await. For a lively atmosphere, visit nearby towns, offering vibrant music and dance venues that showcase Sri Lankan culture, creating an unforgettable night out under the stars.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Yala

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Yala are May, July and September, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to February, April and December, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel in Yala is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Yala is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay in Yala is Wednesday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool enables you to specify your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can organise your results to display prices from lowest to highest, allowing you to identify the most affordable hotels right away. Furthermore, you have the option to refine your choices by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that are available for booking.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You may find it beneficial to save money by combining your hotel accommodation in Yala with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions near Yala

Yala, located in Sri Lanka's Southern Province, is perfect for those seeking adventure and scenic beauty. Visitors can explore the renowned Yala National Park, home to diverse wildlife, or visit local temples and monasteries to experience the rich culture. The area's stunning landscapes and outdoor activities cater to travellers looking for an unforgettable journey filled with natural wonders and cultural experiences.

  • Yala National Park: Located 6km from Yala, this national park is renowned for its diverse wildlife and dramatic landscapes. Embark on thrilling safaris to spot leopards, elephants, and various bird species amidst stunning scenery.
  • Kataragama Temple: Situated 18km from Yala, this sacred site is a melting pot of cultures, attracting pilgrims from various faiths. Experience the vibrant rituals and the serene atmosphere that envelops this spiritual haven.
  • Sithulpawwa Buddhist Monastery: Just 6km away, this ancient monastery offers a tranquil retreat with its rock-carved stupas and serene surroundings. Explore its rich history and enjoy the peaceful ambiance of this cultural gem.

Best time to go to Yala

The best time to visit Yala is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. May is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are moderately low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are moderately high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January79.0°F (26.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighAverage
February79.9°F (26.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighSlightly High
March81.5°F (27.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
April82.6°F (28.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
May82.9°F (28.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately LowSlightly Low
June82.8°F (28.2°C)No RainMostly SunnyModerately LowAverage
July82.8°F (28.2°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
August82.2°F (27.9°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
September81.9°F (27.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately LowSlightly Low
October81.3°F (27.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
November80.1°F (26.7°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
December79.3°F (26.3°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnyModerately HighSlightly High

Frequently asked questions

What is the best area to stay in Yala?
The best areas to stay in Yala are the immediate surroundings of the Yala National Park, particularly near the park's main entrance in Palatupana or further afield in Tissamaharama for more variety.For those prioritising proximity to the wildlife experience, staying in Palatupana, right on the edge of Yala National Park, is ideal. This area offers a range of luxurious safari lodges and tented camps that provide direct access to the park's entrance. Accommodations here often include all-inclusive packages with guided safaris, making for a seamless and exclusive wildlife adventure. It's superb for couples seeking an intimate and immersive nature retreat, with many lodges offering private plunge pools and views of the wilderness.Tissamaharama, often referred to as Tissa, is a larger town located about 30 minutes' drive from the Yala National Park entrance. It offers a broader selection of hotels and guesthouses, from upscale resorts to more budget-friendly options. The town is built around a large man-made lake, Tissa Wewa, which is a popular spot for birdwatching and scenic walks. This area is well-suited for families as it provides more amenities, local restaurants, and shops, offering a good balance between wildlife excursions and local culture.
When is the best time to go to Yala?
The best time to visit Yala National Park for optimal wildlife viewing is generally during the dry season, from February to September.During these months, especially from June to September, the water levels in the park's lagoons and watering holes recede. This forces animals, particularly elephants and leopards, to congregate around the remaining water sources, making them easier to spot. The weather is typically sunny and warm, with less rainfall, which also means the park's tracks are less muddy and more accessible for safari vehicles.For those looking for a comfortable experience, the shoulder months of February to May offer a good balance. The weather is pleasant, and while wildlife viewing is still excellent, the park might be slightly less crowded than during the peak dry period. This period is particularly good for families as the conditions are generally milder, making for more enjoyable safari drives.
Can I cancel my hotel reservation on Expedia?
You can cancel your hotel reservation on Expedia, though it depends on the cancellation policy of your booking. Most bookings are refundable if cancelled within 24-48 hours of the scheduled arrival. Be sure to check your booking confirmation for the exact cancellation policy. If free cancellation is available, you can cancel directly through your Expedia account by logging in, going to "My Trips", and selecting your reservation. To find flexible deals, filter your search by "Fully refundable property" for hotels in Yala.
How can I save on a hotel booking in Yala with Expedia?
One Key™—Expedia's free travel rewards program—gives you instant access to discounts with Member Prices on Yala hotels. Plus, you'll earn OneKeyCash™* on eligible bookings to use on future trips. Booking an Expedia hotel and flight package is another great way to save, where bundling can result in significant savings. *Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.
How much is the nightly rate for a hotel in Yala?
Prices for hotels in Yala often vary, but you can find a great deal from AU$21 on Expedia. All sorts of factors affect price, such as the time of year or the days of the week you choose for your stay. Find the best deals by being flexible with your dates, and sort search results by "Price: low to high" for our cheapest rates.

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