Wilpattu National Park
Wilpattu National Park in the North West of Sri Lanka is less visited than other National Parks in Sri Lanka.
Located north of Colombo along Sri Lanka's dry lowland North West Coast, Wilpattu National Park is one of Sri Lanka's oldest and largest National Parks but was for many years off limits due to the conflict in the north of Sri Lanka.
Thankfully with the conflict over, this stunningly beautiful region of Sri Lanka has re-opened to visitors who are now slowly rediscovering this scenic park and haven for Sri Lankan wildlife.
Much of Wilpattu is covered by dense forest and scrub vegetation, meaning around a quarter of the park is accessible for visitors.
Best Time to visit Wilpattu
The best time to visit Wilpattu is between February and October although the park can be visited all year round.
September to December and March to May can see some rain but Wilpattu is in the "Dry Zone" of Sri Lanka.
Between September and December the lakes (villus) fill up, and fringed by colourful purple "Horse-fly" flowers are magnets for migrating wading birds.
Safaris in Wilpattu
Tracking wildlife in Wilpattu also requires a bit more skill here, which is why having quality guides is essential.
Driving in Wilpattu means negotiating quiet sandy trails that snake under a canopy of thick, dense jungle.
Wilpattu is stunningly beautiful though, particularly at dawn as sunbeams filter through the jungle illuminating a leopards footprint or catching the wings of colourful butterflies.
Water holes, fringed by white sand are found throughout the park and of course are attractive to the game. The water holes are often the best spots to see a leopard basking lazily in the amber evening light.
Wildlife in Wilpattu
Wilpattu National Park is most noted for the presence of Sri Lankan Sloth Bears and of course the Sri Lankan Leopard.
Sloth Bear
There are said to be as few as 1,000 sloth bears remaining, so to see a sloth bear in Wilpattu is a special and memorable experience.
Sri Lankan Leopard
Leopards in Wilpattu aren't as numerous as Yala National Park but the sightings are more exclusive as the park is less visited than Yala.
Other Mammals
Amongst other mammals often sighted in the park are Mouse Deer, Barking Deer, Spotted Deer, Sambhur Deer.
Birdlife
Diverse birdlife in Wilpattu includes various raptors, migrants, shore birds and waders.
Kulu Safaris
Explore Wilpattu National Park with Kulu Safari’s – a family run operation with a unique insight into Sri Lankan wildlife.
Stay in a comfortable bungalow on the border of Wilpattu and enjoy tailor made safaris in Wilpattu.
Game drives are undertaken in customised Toyota jeeps lead by English-speaking naturalists who are dedicated to helping guests seek out even the most hard to find wildlife in the parks.
Guides are experts in their fields and are more than willing to impart their knowledge on wildlife and photography.
In addition to comfortable accommodation and expert guides, expect a high quality of al fresco wining and dining.
The experience includes all accommodation, meals and snacks, drinks from the international bar, two game drives per day, national park fees, and taxes.
We often include a Safari in Wilpattu as part of a longer tailor made Sri Lanka holiday - so just let us know your interests in Sri Lanka and let us design your perfect Sri Lanka trip.
