Wilpattu National Park: Wildlife park with lakes

Description

Wilpattu National Park is Sri Lanka’s largest and oldest national park, covering 1,317 km² in the northwest of the country. Known for its dense forests, grasslands, and natural lakes ("villus"), the park is a prime wildlife destination featuring leopards, elephants, sloth bears, crocodiles, and over 200 bird species. Unlike other parks, Wilpattu has fewer tourists, offering a more secluded and authentic safari experience.

Visitor Fee

• Foreign Adult: ~$12 USD
• Foreign Child (6-12 years): ~$6 USD
• Local Adult: ~$3 USD
• Local Child: ~$1.50 USD
• Jeep Safari (mandatory with a guide): ~$50–$80 USD per jeep (can fit up to 6 people)
• Entrance and service fees may apply

Transportation

• By Car/Taxi:
  • From Colombo (~4 hours, 180 km) via Puttalam Road.
  • From Negombo (~3.5 hours, 160 km).
  • From Anuradhapura (~1.5 hours, 50 km).
• By Bus:
  • Take a bus to Puttalam or Anuradhapura, then a tuk-tuk or taxi to the park entrance.
• By Train:
  • Nearest station: Anuradhapura, then a taxi or bus.

Things to Do

1. Leopard Safari – Wilpattu is one of the best places in Sri Lanka to spot leopards.
2. Bird Watching – Spot painted storks, eagles, and Sri Lankan junglefowl.
3. Wildlife Viewing – Observe elephants, sloth bears, crocodiles, spotted deer, and buffalo.
4. Explore Natural Villus (Lakes) – Visit the serene lakes where animals gather to drink water.
5. Camping & Eco-Tourism – Experience overnight stays in the wilderness with guided tours.

Why People Enjoy Coming Here

• Less crowded than Yala, offering a peaceful, intimate safari experience.
• One of the best places for leopard spotting in Sri Lanka.
• Diverse landscapes, from dense forests to open plains and beautiful lakes.
• Rich historical significance, with ancient ruins hidden within the park.

Age of Wilpattu National Park

• Declared a national park in 1938, making it over 85 years old.
• Historical evidence suggests human settlements dating back over 2,000 years.

List of Activities

• Jeep safaris
• Birdwatching tours
• Camping & nature photography
• Wildlife tracking
• Exploring hidden ancient ruins

Additional Nearby Attractions

1. Anuradhapura – A UNESCO World Heritage city with ancient temples and ruins (~1.5 hours).
2. Thanthirimale Temple – A historic rock temple with ancient carvings (~1 hour).
3. Kalpitiya Peninsula – Famous for dolphin & whale watching, kitesurfing (~2 hours).
4. Puttalam Lagoon – A scenic coastal area known for fishing and salt production (~1 hour).