If you look at a map of Sri Lanka, you will see a massive green patch in the Southeast corner. Most people know the western side of this patch as Yala National Park the most famous, and crowded, safari destination in the country.

But there is an Eastern gate. A quieter, wilder, and more authentic side to the jungle.

Welcome to Kumana National Park.

Located just 45 minutes south of Arugam Bay, Kumana (formerly known as Yala East) is the perfect day trip for travelers who want to see wildlife without fighting through a traffic jam of 50 other jeeps.

If you love nature, hate crowds, and want a safari that feels like a real adventure, here is why you need to choose Kumana.

Kumana vs. Yala: What’s the Difference?

The biggest difference is the vibe.

In Yala (Block 1), sightings of leopards are frequent, but they often come with "jeep jams" where dozens of vehicles surround one animal. It can feel like a zoo.

In Kumana, you might drive for 20 minutes without seeing another vehicle. When you do spot an animal whether it’s a majestic elephant or a elusive bear you often have the moment entirely to yourself.

It is peaceful. You can hear the jungle. You can stop the engine and just watch. This is how a safari is supposed to feel.

The Birdwatcher’s Paradise (And It’s Not Just for Nerds)

Kumana is technically a bird sanctuary, and it is world famous for it. But don't let that bore you we aren't talking about tiny sparrows. We are talking about massive, dinosaur like birds.

The heart of the park is the "Kumana Villu," a massive 200 hectare natural swamp lake.

Between April and July, tens of thousands of migratory birds flock here. You will see massive flocks of Painted Storks, Pelicans, Spoonbills, and Ibises nesting in the mangroves. Watching a Pelican squadron land on the water is a sight that impresses even the most casual traveler.

Yes, There Are Leopards (and Bears)

A common myth is that Kumana is only for birds. This is false.

Kumana is connected to Yala. There are no fences. The animals roam freely between the two parks.

Leopards: Kumana has a healthy population of Sri Lankan Leopards. While they are slightly harder to spot here than in Yala (because the bush is denser), seeing one here is far more rewarding because you aren't fighting for a view.
Sloth Bears: This is actually one of the best places in Sri Lanka to see the shaggy, rare Sloth Bear, especially during the "Palu" fruit season (May - June).
Elephants: You are almost guaranteed to see wild elephants, solitary males and sometimes herds, roaming the open plains.

Best Time to Visit

For Birds: April to July is the absolute peak season. This is when the migration is in full swing and the swamp is teeming with life.

For Leopards & Mammals: May to September (The Dry Season). As the smaller waterholes dry up, the big animals are forced to come to the main lakes to drink, making them much easier to spot.

Time of Day: Just like any safari, the animals are most active in the early morning (6:00 AM - 9:00 AM) or late afternoon (3:00 PM - 6:00 PM). The midday heat sends them deep into the shade.

How to Plan Your Safari

Getting There: You can hire a safari jeep directly from Arugam Bay. The drive to the park gate takes about 45 minutes to 1 hour.

The Cost:

Jeep Hire: A private jeep from Arugam Bay usually costs between 12,000 – 18,000 LKR ($40 - $60 USD) for a half-day tour. This can be split between up to 6 people.
Park Entrance: The entry fee for foreigners is roughly $30 - $35 USD per person (paid at the gate in LKR).

What to Pack:

Binoculars (Ask your driver if they have a spare pair).
A zoom lens for your camera.
Snacks and water (There are no shops inside).
A scarf or mask (It gets dusty!).

Final Verdict

If you want a guaranteed leopard sighting to tick off a list, go to Yala (and brave the crowds).