This busy market town serves as the main base for Yala visitors, with most guesthouses, restaurants, and tour operators concentrated along the main road. The town sits around an ancient tank (reservoir) system dating back 2,000 years, with several dagobas and ruins scattered throughout. Most safari jeeps depart from here for the 20-minute drive to Yala's entrance gates.
A practical rather than pretty town that comes alive in the early morning as safari jeeps prepare for game drives. The main street bustles with fruit vendors, safari operators, and travellers organizing their wildlife adventures. Evening brings the aroma of curry from small restaurants and the sound of generators powering budget guesthouses.
What It Feels Like
Tissamaharama is known for being the practical safari base with cheapest accommodation options.
Avoid if You want luxury amenities or scenic surroundings
What to Do
- Visit ancient Tissamaharama dagoba dating from 2nd century BC
- Walk around Tissa Wewa tank at sunset for bird watching
- Browse local market for tropical fruits and spices
Local tip Book your safari the evening before and negotiate price - competition keeps rates reasonable
See our best things to do in Yala or One Day in Yala.
Getting Here
In the centre of Yala.
Nearest transport: Main bus station in town centre with connections to Colombo and Matara.
More on Yala
Back to the main Yala page for costs, transport and the other areas.
We plan trips to Yala and the rest of Sri Lanka. Tell us your dates and we will put a route together. Our routes are on the tours page.
Where to eat and drink
New Cabanas Restaurant
Sri Lankan · Fresh fish curry and rice packets