The South - Sri Lanka - page 307

Sleeping
There has been no accommodation inside the park since the 2004 tsunami. However, there
are several top-end resorts off the 12km road that runs into the park from Yala Jct; some
are on the long untrodden beach.
One way you can sleep inside the park is on an organised camping trip . These can be
arranged with guides, as part of a package with a local guesthouse or simply by reserving
space in one of the often-luxurious campgrounds. One good organiser is Nandika ( 077
975 3203; [e-mail] ;camping packages from Rs 38,000 for two people) , a longtime
guide who provides tours, a BBQ dinner, breakfast, a tent and more. For extra fees, you
can get a tent that has its own attached private toilet. Another option is a night in a tree-
house (from Rs 22,000 for two), where you can spot animals wandering below.
Cinnamon Wild Yala LODGE
( 047-223 9449; www.cinnamonhotels.com ; r US$130-200; )
Near the park entrance, this lodge run by the noted Cinnamon hotel group offers the ulti-
mate in bush-chic accommodation. Rooms are in individual luxe bungalows. The hotel
runs on solar power, some of the waste water is recycled and there's a tree-planting
scheme. At night elephants often wander through the grounds. Breakfast and full-board
options are available.
Jetwing Yala RESORT
( 047-471 0710; www.jetwinghotels.com ;r US$100-200)
Only 4km from the park entrance, this posh new resort is set amidst the dunes near the
beach. What the modern design lacks in character, the staff makes up for in service. Ar-
range for a sunset picnic for two on the beach or go wild with all the animal spotting you
can schedule.
Information
The entrance fees for Yala National Park (adult/child US$15/8, jeep & tracker Rs 250, service
charge per group US$8, plus overall tax 12%; 5.30am-6pm mid-Oct-Aug) are payable at the
main office, which is near the west entrance. The only practical way to visit the park is as
part of a tour or safari ( Click here ).