Minneriya: Watching "The Gathering" of Elephants
Minneriya centres on an ancient reservoir, and in the dry season its receding waters draw huge numbers of elephants to the fresh grass at the tank’s edge. This seasonal spectacle is known as "The Gathering".
The Gathering
From around June to September, often peaking in August, September, hundreds of elephants can gather around the Minneriya tank at once, one of Asia’s great wildlife sights.
Where the herds are
Depending on rainfall and water levels, the elephants move between Minneriya, Kaudulla and Hurulu parks. Local drivers know which tank the herds have moved to.
Safari timing
Late-afternoon drives coincide with elephants coming out to graze and with softer light. Numbers vary year to year with the rains.
Base
Habarana and Sigiriya are the usual bases, putting the Cultural Triangle sites within easy reach too.
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