by Nabeel Barry
Minneriya National Park, a cherished conservation of Sri Lanka, is honored with a unique philatelic collection that highlights the park’s imperative cultural, historical, and ecological significance. This series of stamps aims to underscore the national park’s pivotal role in wildlife conservation and its deep connection to Sri Lanka’s history. This move comes at a time when conservation efforts are of importance in the face of climate change.
10 stamps, 10 Miniature Sheets, 10 First Day Covers (FDC) and 10 Miniature Sheet First Day Covers (MSFDC) were released at a modest event at Department of Wildlife Conservation auditorium on 26th June 2025. The stamps were designed by taking pictures captured by Roshana Prasad, Asela Karunarathna and pictures from Department of Wildlife Conversation. Painting depicted were by Wasantha Perera.
10 Miniature Sheets released for the series
Located in the North Central Province of Sri Lanka, Minneriya National Park was originally declared a wildlife sanctuary in 1938 and later designated as a national park on August 12, 1997. Spanning across approximately 8,889 hectares, the park encompasses the Minneriya tank, a monumental reservoir dating back to the 3rd century AD. The tank was constructed by King Mahasen, one of Sri Lanka’s most notable monarchs, and is an extraordinary feat of ancient engineering that continues to support both human and wildlife populations today.
Minneriya National Park is best known for its remarkable role as a dry-season feeding ground for Sri Lanka’s iconic wild elephants. During the dry months, hundreds of elephants congregate around the Minneriya tank, a spectacle that draws both tourists and wildlife enthusiasts from across the globe. The park is also home to a wide variety of other species, including sloth bears, leopards, and numerous birds, making it an essential part of Sri Lanka’s biodiversity.
The launch of the Minneriya National Park stamp collection is not only a celebration of its ecological importance but also a recognition of the enduring legacy of its cultural heritage. Each stamp in the collection is designed to showcase different facets of the park:
The stamp collection not only serves as a tribute to the wildlife and historical importance of Minneriya National Park but also as a tool for conservation advocacy. This collection of stamps,, will additionally help educate the public about the significance of preserving natural habitats, highlighting the delicate balance between human activities and wildlife conservation.
10 First Day Covers released for the series
Minneriya National Park, along with the nearby Kaudulla and Girithale parks, forms one of Sri Lanka’s 70 Important Bird Areas (IBAs), making the preservation of this park a critical step in safeguarding the region’s birdlife diversity. The new stamp collection aims to bring global attention to these conservation efforts, encouraging both local and international visitors to appreciate the park’s beauty and its role in the natural world.
As Sri Lanka’s elephant population faces mounting threats from habitat loss and human-wildlife conflict, Minneriya National Park stands as a crucial sanctuary. The park continues to serve as an essential refuge for the country’s elephants, particularly during the dry season when other food sources become scarce. With the support of conservation efforts, both locally and globally, Minneriya can continue to thrive as a vital piece of Sri Lanka’s ecological framework.
10 Miniature Sheets First Day Covers (MSFDC) released for the series
In conclusion, the philatelic collection dedicated to Minneriya National Park will not only commemorate the park’s incredible history and wildlife but will also foster a greater appreciation for the ongoing efforts required to protect it. As Sri Lanka celebrates its natural heritage, these stamps serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of safeguarding our planet’s biodiversity for future generations.
For stamp collectors, nature enthusiasts, and anyone passionate about wildlife conservation, this new series promises to be a valuable addition to any collection.
Details of the release and link to buy them online:
SRI LANKAN SLOTH BEAR – Buy Stamp Buy Miniature Sheet
INDIAN PANGOLIN – Buy Stamp Buy Miniature Sheet
BLACK NAPED HARE – Buy Stamp Buy Miniature Sheet
SRI LANKAN JACKAL – Buy Stamp Buy Miniature Sheet
SRI LANKAN ELEPHANT – Buy Stamp Buy Miniature Sheet
ASIAN OPENBILL – Buy Stamp Buy Miniature Sheet
BRAHMINY KITE – Buy Stamp Buy Miniature Sheet
INDIAN STAR TORTOISE – Buy Stamp Buy Miniature Sheet
PAINTED STORK – Buy Stamp Buy Miniature Sheet
YELLOW-STRIPED CHEVROTAIN – Buy Stamp Buy Miniature Sheet
