Discover the Untamed Beauty of Wilpattu National Park
Explore the wild heart of Sri Lanka in Wilpattu National Park, where nature and adventure await amidst stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife.
A brief summary to Wilpattu National Park
Wilpattu National Park is one of Sri Lanka's most enchanting natural reserves, known for its vast wilderness and vibrant ecosystems. Spanning over 131,693 hectares, this national park is characterized by its unique villus—natural, shallow lakes that attract a diverse array of wildlife. Visitors can embark on thrilling safaris to witness the park's resident leopards, elephants, and an impressive variety of birds, making it a paradise for wildlife photographers and enthusiasts alike. The park's diverse landscape ranges from dense forests to open grasslands, providing a stunning backdrop for exploration. Each visit reveals a new aspect of its natural beauty, from the serene lakes dotted with lotus flowers to the majestic trees that provide shelter for countless species. Birdwatchers will be particularly delighted by the opportunity to spot endemic species, as well as migratory birds that visit during certain seasons. For those looking for an authentic experience, guided tours offer insights into the park's rich biodiversity and ecological significance. With its remote location, Wilpattu National Park is less crowded than other tourist spots, allowing for a more intimate connection with nature. The tranquility and untouched landscapes make it an ideal escape for those seeking adventure away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Local tips
- Plan your visit during the early morning or late afternoon for the best wildlife sightings.
- Bring binoculars and a camera to capture the breathtaking scenery and wildlife.
- Wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of water, as exploring the park can be physically demanding.
- Consider hiring a local guide to enhance your experience and provide valuable insights about the park's ecology.
- Respect wildlife and maintain a safe distance from animals to ensure your safety and their wellbeing.
Getting There
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Car
To drive from Minneriya National Park to Wilpattu National Park, start from the main entrance of Minneriya National Park. Head west on the A6 road towards Habarana. Continue on the A6 for approximately 23 kilometers until you reach Habarana Junction. At the junction, turn left onto the A12 road towards Anuradhapura. Stay on the A12 for about 35 kilometers, and then take a right turn onto the A10 road toward Wilpattu National Park. Follow the A10 for about 12 kilometers until you reach the entrance of Wilpattu National Park. The entire journey takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.
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Public Transportation
To reach Wilpattu National Park from Minneriya National Park using public transportation, first, you need to take a bus from the nearest bus station in Habarana. From Minneriya, travel to Habarana by either a local bus or taxi (about 10 kilometers). At Habarana, find a bus heading towards Anuradhapura and get off at the Wilpattu junction. From there, you can take a tuk-tuk or taxi to the entrance of Wilpattu National Park, which is about 12 kilometers away. The total traveling time may take around 2.5 to 3 hours, factoring in waiting times and transfers. The bus fare from Habarana to Wilpattu junction is approximately 100 LKR.
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Taxi or Ride-Hailing Service
For a more comfortable and direct route from Minneriya National Park to Wilpattu National Park, you can hire a taxi or use a ride-hailing service like PickMe or Uber (if available in the area). Arrange for a taxi from your accommodation in Minneriya or at the park entrance. This option will take you directly to Wilpattu National Park, and the journey should take about 1 hour and 30 minutes. Expect to pay around 5,000 to 7,000 LKR depending on the negotiation and time of day.
Attractions Nearby to Wilpattu National Park
- Thekkam river dam ( Wilpattu national park)
- Manawila Wildlife Department Bungalow
- Palace of Queen Kuweni
- View place viyagadikkulam
- Viyadi Kulam
- Aaththukkuly Kulam
- Kibulwala
- Modaragam aru beach
- Wilpattu national park entrance - Hunuwilagama
- Wilpattu Safaris
- Dilum wilpattu safari jeep service
- Wilpattu Safari jeep
- Karadikkuly beach side
- Hunis Nagar Land Marks
- Adhitya Herbal Estate and 'Wedha-Gama'
Landmarks nearby to Wilpattu National Park
- Lunuwewa Wildlife Bungalow
- Talai Villu
- Wilpattu Asinka Safari
- Wilpattu Tree House Hotel
- Wilpattu Safari Camp
- Leopards Track In Wilpattu National Park
- Wild Edge - Wilpattu
- Nirvaan Safari Lodge
- Wilpattu Blue Sapphire
- Camp In Eleena- Wilpattu
- Wilpattu Wildhideaway
- Thamaravila Wilpattu - Luxury Tented Safari Chalets
- Wilpattu Lake Nest Resort
- Visit Wilpattu
- Leopard Lakes Wilpattu