Tissamaharama
Southern Province
Tissamaharama, usually called Tissa, is a lakeside town in the south-east and the main base for Yala National Park. It is also close to the sacred pilgrimage town of Kataragama and to Bundala, a wetland that is a haven for birds.
Most visitors come for an early-morning or afternoon safari in Yala, and return to a guesthouse or lodge in town. Boat trips on the lake, the old white stupa in the centre and the shrines at Kataragama fill the rest of the day.
Trips to Tissamaharama
Getting to Tissamaharama
Private car and driver from the airport or your hotel. Fixed airport fares are on our airport pages; other trips are quoted.
Get a quote on WhatsAppTissamaharama: questions
Why stay in Tissa rather than at the park gate?
The town has the widest choice of places to stay, restaurants and jeep operators, and it is a short drive from the Yala entrance.
Is Tissamaharama close to Mattala airport?
Yes. It is one of the nearest towns to Mattala (HRI), so you can be on safari the same or the next day.
Can you arrange transport to Tissamaharama?
Yes. Message us on WhatsApp with your dates and pick-up point and we will quote a private car and driver to Tissamaharama.