Chitral Jayatilake, a passionate wildlife enthusiast and acclaimed nature photographer, never anticipated becoming a leading figure in Sri Lanka’s ecotourism industry. However, with his deep love for wildlife and the nation’s emergence as a global biodiversity hotspot, Jayatilake has found himself perfectly positioned to showcase the country’s natural wonders. When he’s not capturing breathtaking photographs for publications like National Geographic or assisting the BBC with their acclaimed Planet Earth series, Jayatilake leads groups of adventurous travelers on immersive journeys into the wilds of Sri Lanka.
Despite its small size, Sri Lanka’s 25,300 square miles are teeming with abundant wildlife set against some of the world’s most captivating landscapes. It’s no wonder that esteemed publications worldwide have recognized Sri Lanka as a top-tier tourism destination. Forbes recently included the country in its esteemed list of “The 23 Best Places To Travel Around The World In 2023,” while The Independent named it one of the best destinations to explore this year, praising its lush natural beauty, diverse wildlife, and thriving independent hotel and tourism scene. Even CNN hailed Sri Lanka’s capital, Colombo, as one of the must-visit destinations.
Jayatilake graciously shared a mesmerizing overview of Sri Lanka’s wildlife wonders. The country boasts an impressive population of leopards, potentially the densest in Asia. Jayatilake emphasizes the enchanting Yala National Park as the perfect place to observe these majestic felines, as they effortlessly go about their business, seemingly unfazed by the presence of onlooking jeeps.
With around 6,000 elephants roaming freely, Sri Lanka astounds with its ability to accommodate such a significant number of these gentle giants. Jayatilake explains that ancient reservoirs, created by the country’s former kings to capture rainwater, have inadvertently fostered areas rich in fresh grass and water. Consequently, elephants gravitate towards these regions, resulting in remarkable congregations like the one at Minneriya National Park. Lonely Planet even ranked it as the sixth greatest animal gathering in the world. Starting with 30-40 elephants in May, the gathering reaches its peak in August, attracting around 200 elephants.
ri Lanka is not only a paradise for land-dwelling creatures; it is also a haven for avian enthusiasts, boasting approximately 500 bird species during migratory seasons. Additionally, the country offers breathtaking whale-watching opportunities, with pods of blue whales and sperm whales gracefully traversing its coastal waters. In fact, the allure of these magnificent marine creatures enticed the filming of BBC’s Planet Earth II, narrated by the legendary David Attenborough.
While recent years have seen Sri Lanka face political and economic challenges, the resilience of its tourism industry has remained unscathed. The country is now regarded as one of the safest destinations to explore. In 2022, Germany’s DerStandard ranked Colombo as the second safest city for solo female travelers, and WorldPackers.com listed Sri Lanka among the safest countries to visit.
Jayatilake eloquently sums up the advantages of Sri Lanka’s compact size and diverse ecology, stating, “It’s a small island, very easy to get around. You’re looking at a three to four-hour drive from one part of the island to another, transitioning from arid jungles to elevations of 6,000 feet above sea level. Sri Lanka is the perfect island safari.”
Embark on a remarkable Sri Lankan adventure, where nature’s splendors await at every turn. From close encounters with leopards and elephants to awe-inspiring birdwatching and captivating whale sightings, this enchanting island promises an unforgettable vacation. Discover the vibrant tapestry of Sri Lanka’s wildlife, immerse yourself in its breathtaking landscapes, and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Source: LA WEEKLY
