Minneriya National Park

My Family and my cousin's family booked Minneriya National Park's 'Rambavila' Bungalow online on 12 April 2023 for a one night stay on 13 April 2023.

On the day I made the booking I contacted Mr. Nuwan through the general line to get some advice for our trip, especially regarding what to bring, what to expect and any expert advice on Safari Tours. At the very outset, he gave me the true situation at Minneriya - that is the tank was full of water and Elephants could not be seen. Yet he assured me that he will be there on the following day and the day after to help me with any support needed. Elephants present or not, I had made up my mind to go to Rambavila because I had made the payment and my family was eager to go. I made a plan B, which was to spend the night at Rambavila on 13th without a Safari and for the following day to go to Habarana Eco Park after checking out.

On the day of the trip, we got a little delayed and Nuwan telephoned me to check where we were. I said we were at Dambulla and will be there soon. We reached Minneriya Park Entrance at 3:00 pm. Nuwan greeted us warmly. He then accompanied us to Rambavila. We were so lucky, on our 9 KM journey to Rambavila, Nuwan helped us to spot the below animals;

Elephants (2) Pea Hen & Peacock (Several) Spotted Deer (Several) Grey Langur (Several) Painted Stork (Several) White Bellied Sea Eagle (1) Grey Headed Fish Eagle (1) Asian Opened Bill (Several) Great Cormorant (Several) Grey Heron (Several)

We were greeted warmly by Jagath & Ananda at the 'Rambavila' Bungalow. They showed the bungalow to us and inquired about what food / beverages they needed to prepare and we gave our rations and requirements.

Also, Nuwan helped us spot Golden Jackals (4) on our short trip to the Watch Tower from Rambavila.

Nuwan, Jagath & Ananda prepared the best food for us and were very courteous at all times. Despite it being their Festival, they were always joyful and served us with the brightest of smiles. From time to time, they inquired from us if we needed anything and if everything was ok.

It was one of the best experiences in our lives and our kids enjoyed the stay because of the tireless efforts of Nuwan, Jagath & Ananda of the Department of Wild Life. We owe them a BIG THANK YOU ! We sincerely wish them the best of the best in their careers. There is not the slightest doubt that they will hail Minneriya National Park's name in the highest possible place !

Looking forward to seeing them another day !

My advice to anyone visiting Minneriya National Park's 'Rambavila' Bungalow;

1. There are no fans and you will not be able to charge your phones & laptops. So take your portable fans and power-banks if you really need them.

2. There are no refrigerators ! If you need chilled / cooled food items or beverages, take a cool box with you. Stop at Dambulla to buy Ice Cubes and those food items & beverages.

3. Take plenty of Mineral Water for drinking & cooking. Taking fruit juices also is a good idea.

4. Take enough dry rations for your family & the staff at Rambavila too (additional 3 people). Always better to have a menu in mind and take the rations accordingly. Take spices / condiments i.e, cooking oil, chilli powder, table salt, onions, coconuts, tomatoes, curry powder, milk powder, sugar, tea leaves, coffee etc.

5. The weather is generally warm. Clothing like linen and pure cotton is ideal. Also, you will need a good shower / body wash. So take your shampoo, shower gel, soap, face wash etc etc.

6. Take Binoculars & Cameras to spot the Animals and take some great pictures.

7. The Bungalow Keepers / Staff leave behind their families to make you comfortable and happy. When you are with them, they treat you like family. Treat them with equal measure & respect which will make the stay a happy & memorable one for both parties. Always seek their advice. They know best !