Sri Lanka's largest national park: quiet jungle tracks between natural lakes, with leopards, sloth bears and far fewer jeeps than Yala.
Covering more than 1,300 square kilometres in the north-west, Wilpattu is the largest national park in Sri Lanka. Its name means "land of lakes", after the dozens of natural sand-rimmed lakes, called villus, scattered through the dense forest. Declared a national park in 1938, it was closed for years during the civil war, which helped its wildlife recover.
Why visit
Wilpattu feels wild and uncrowded. The forest is thicker than Yala's, so sightings take more patience, but you'll often have them to yourself. Look for:
- Leopards, often resting on the sandy tracks or by the villus
- Sloth bears, especially when trees are fruiting in June and July
- Elephants, spotted deer, sambar, water buffalo and mugger crocodiles
- Abundant birdlife around the lakes
Planning your safari
- The main entrance is at Hunuwilagama, about 45 minutes from Anuradhapura.
- A full-day safari gives the best chance of seeing leopards, as the park is large and tracks are slow.
- The tracks are sandy and bumpy; bring a cushion for the long day.
- Pack water, sunscreen, a hat and binoculars.
History and legend
On the coast, Kudiramalai Point is linked to the legend of Prince Vijaya and Kuveni, the founding story of the Sinhalese people.
Where to stay
Choose a lodge on the park's edge near Hunuwilagama, or stay in Anuradhapura and combine your safari with the sacred city.
