Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
DON'T MISS
THE GATHERING
One of Asia's great wildlife spectacles occurs at Minneriya National Park in August and
September. Known as 'the Gathering', 200 or more elephants gather for several weeks in
one concentrated spot. Long thought to be driven by thirst during the dry season, only re-
cently has it been learned that the natural factors behind the Gathering are much more
complex.
The elephants surround the Minneriya Tank, the huge reservoir first built in the 3rd cen-
tury AD. It was assumed that they were there for the water, as it remains wet even when
smaller water holes dry up. However, biologists have discovered that the water's retreat
from the land is what really lures the elephants. As the tank shrinks, it leaves behind vast
swaths of muddy earth that are soon covered in rich, tender grass. It's a tasty feast for
the elephants and they come in droves.
Unfortunately, recent actions by the water authority (which manages irrigation for local
farmers) have threatened the Gathering in recent years. When the tank is full, new
grasses won't emerge. The result can be a lot of elephants standing around looking for
their food. Other pressing issues include illegal encroachment inside the park and the
poaching of wildlife.
Kaudulla National Park
This park stands on the fringe of the ancient Kaudulla Tank. It established a 66.6-sq-km
elephant corridor between Somawathiya Chaitiya National Park and Minneriya National
Park. Just 6km off the Habarana-Trincomalee road at Gal Oya junction, it is also a popular
safari tour from Polonnaruwa and Habarana because of the good chance of getting up
close and personal with elephants. In October there can be up to 250 elephants in the park,
including herds of juvenile males. There are also leopards, fishing cats, sambar deer, en-
dangered rusty spotted cats and sloth bears. The best months for a visit are October to
March.
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