Probably, not many. Sri Lanka is one of those few places in the world with a breathtaking array of landscapes and wildlife packed into a relatively compact area.
The island, of just under 66,000 square kilometres, is unusual Contrary to expectations of island bio-geographic theory, it has large mammals. It is the
best place in Asia to see the Asian Elephant, the largest terrestrial mammal on the Asian continent. Visit, Uda Walawe National Park and one is virtually
guaranteed to see elephants. During September and October, the 'Gathering' takes place. An annual migration of elephants to the receding shores of the Minneriya National Park. At times, up to three hundred elephants may be present on the exposed lake bed, by now a verdant meadow of lush grass.
best place in Asia to see the Asian Elephant, the largest terrestrial mammal on the Asian continent. Visit, Uda Walawe National Park and one is virtually
guaranteed to see elephants. During September and October, the 'Gathering' takes place. An annual migration of elephants to the receding shores of the Minneriya National Park. At times, up to three hundred elephants may be present on the exposed lake bed, by now a verdant meadow of lush grass.
Sri Lanka also has another eco-tourism trump card, the Leopard. Yala National Park has one of the highest densities of leopard anywhere in the world. The leopard is also the top predator on the island. This lends it an air of confidence, which together with the open nature of the park's terrain, allows for some fine Leopard watching.
Tree Frogs are an image most associated with Costa Rica. However, Sri Lanka
may challenge that perception. Ongoing research shows that Sri Lanka may emerge as the frog capital of the world, as a result of a unique species radiation which has been recently discovered by researchers. Many other species of animals await discovery in the biodiversity rich rainforests in the south west of the island.
The island's mountainous core, is topped with cloud forests. This harbours
unique animals such as the Dwarf Lizard, which has a prehensile tail and an adaptation to give birth to live young.
unique animals such as the Dwarf Lizard, which has a prehensile tail and an adaptation to give birth to live young.
The island has one of the highest species densities for some faunal groups
(including reptiles and birds) per 10,000 square kilometres. However, its claim
to be a top destination for eco-tourism lies in a blend of attributes; rich
biodiversity, compactness, a good infrastructure of hotels and roads and wide
understanding of English.
(including reptiles and birds) per 10,000 square kilometres. However, its claim
to be a top destination for eco-tourism lies in a blend of attributes; rich
biodiversity, compactness, a good infrastructure of hotels and roads and wide
understanding of English.
A complementary attraction in Sri Lanka is that the cultural sites are also good for eco-tourists. Many of the archaeological reserves double up as nature reserves, attracting birdwatchers and naturalists. The medieval capital of Polonnaruwa is worth a visit for seeing its ancient stupas and sublime stone sculpture. Birders may also see over a hundred species of birds, in a day, and mammal enthusiasts will find one of the richest densities of primates (monkeys) in the world. Other key cultural sites such as Anuradhapura and Sigiriya also have good forest cover around them. This fantastic combination of culture, nature, relatively good logistics and a friendly people, endow Sri Lanka with all the ingredients to be one of Asia's and indeed one of the world's top eco-tourism destinations.
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