YALA OFF-GRID ADVENTURES

Beyond The Safari

Curated Off the Beaten Track Escapes

Featuring the best Yala off-grid adventures, go beyond the Safari and explore Yala’s hidden gems. Couples can uncover hidden treasures and unexplored gems. From sacred jungle sites to peaceful natural pools, here's a glimpse into some off-the-beaten-track attractions awaiting couples to explore while in Yala.

Kirinda Rajamaha Viharaya

Just a 10-minute drive from Yala's Palatupana Gate lies Kirinda Rajamaha Viharaya, a captivating temple perched atop a rocky mountain. This unique location provides breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, including the mesmerising sand dunes that fringe Sri Lanka's southern coast.

Legend tells the story of the brave and resourceful Queen Vihara Maha Devi, who gave her life to save her countrymen by asking her father to cast her off as a means of appeasing the raging sea. She is said to have landed in Kirinda and was met by King Kavantissa, who subsequently made her his queen.

This ancient and captivating tale adds an extra layer of mystique to the temple's cultural significance, making it an intriguing stop for those seeking a connection to Sri Lanka's ancient heritage.

Weheregala Reservoir

While Yala Park is always the highlight, there are many more opportunities and places to explore beyond the more trodden path. If capturing stunning photography is your obsession, then we recommend a hidden gem within Yala’s Block 5 at the Weheragala Reservoir.

A stunning and serene beauty here offers a postcard-perfect scene, making it ideal for photographers. The glistening clear waters, the blue skies, and the lush greenery combine to set a fascinating photography experience. Beyond the photo op, Weheragala is also a marvel of modern engineering, serving a dual purpose. Its expanse provides water for the Hambantota region's agriculture, as well as feeding the wildlife parks, rivers, and streams with abundant water for the wildlife to thrive.

Yala Beach

This stunning coastline is conveniently situated by the Palatupana entrance, but get ready for a bumpy jeep ride to reach the Yala beach shores. Many safari drivers who venture with guests into the Yala park stop here to allow guests to stretch their legs and enjoy the beauty of the secluded beach and its surroundings. This brief interlude will enable you to recharge and appreciate Yala National Park's diverse wonders and capture some jungle beach photographs for your collection!

Note: The Beach here is unsafe for swimming due to strong currents and hazardous conditions.

Manik River Natural Pool

Nestled along the scenic Buttala-Kataragama road lies Manik Ganga, as it’s popularly known. Ganga meaning river in Singahelse. A natural river pool, this is one of the southern region's best natural swimming spots, a tranquil oasis offering a refreshing escape for visitors. Surrounded by ancient trees, the pool exudes an air of serenity, inviting you to relax and unwind amidst nature's embrace.

The pool is popular on weekends with the locals, but it remains largely uncrowded during weekdays. Ensure that you travel here with a local guide, as it is also on the border of Yala National Park. Furthermore, the pool has submerged stones that locals are aware of and can advise you on the safest areas to swim.

Kirinda Beach

Kirinda Beach, located near a local fishing village, provides a serene escape just a short walk from the Kirinda Buddhist Viharaya. The beach is popular among locals for strolls and leisure; however, swimming is not recommended due to the strong currents. Most visitors appreciate the tranquil coast and capture photographs of the landscape and ocean.

Conclusion

Enjoy off-the-beaten-track adventures in Yala, going beyond the safari and featuring sacred temples, photography gems, and beautiful beaches.

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