Wilpattu National Park

About Wilpattu National Park

Wilpattu National Park (Willu-pattu) Located in the Northwest coast lowland dry zone of Sri Lanka. The “Willus” (Natural lakes) in this park are a unique feature. Which are Natural, sand-rimmed water basins or depressions that fill with rainwater. The park is located 30 km west Anuradhapura and located 26 km north of Puttalam (approximately 180 km north of Colombo). 131,693 hectares make up the park, and it ranges from 0 to 152 meters above sea level. Approximately sixty lakes (Willus) and tanks are spread throughout Wilpattu National Park.

Importance

Wilpattu is one of the oldest and largest National Parks in Sri Lanka. The Leopard (Panthera pardus kotiya) population in Wilpattu is renowned worldwide, making it one of the top national parks. The recent research studies have found that Wilpattu has one of the highest leopard densities on earth. Additionally, the high number of individuals recorded (313 independent individuals and dependents) and a healthy sex ratio, all recorded during a relatively short study period, is indicative of a healthy breeding population of leopards, and this population should serve as an important source for adjacent protected areas. Furthermore, Apart from Sri Lankan Leopard, Wilpattu is one of the best places to spot the Sloth Bear.

History

This region of Sri Lanka is associated with legends and history, and it’s known to have been the site of many ancient settlements. Believed to be the landing place of Prince Vijaya, founder of Sinhala civilization, this region lies in close proximity to Anuradhapura, one of Sri Lanka’s ancient capitals with numerous sites of archeological importance and ancient irrigation tanks that reflect our proud heritage of engineering knowledge.

Biodiversity in Wilpattu National Park

The Annual Rainfall is about 1000mm and the annual temperature is about 27.2 degrees. The inter-monsoonal rains in March and the northeast monsoon from December to February are the primary causes of rainfall.

45 mammal species  (4 which are endemic) have been identified within Wilpattu national park. The Sri Lankan Elephant (Elephas maximus), Sloth Bear (Melursus ursinus), Sri Lankan Leopard (Panthera pardus kotiya), and Water Buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) are identified as threatened species living within the Wilpattu National Park.  Sambhur Deer, Spotted Deer, Mongoose, mouse and shrew are more of Wilpattu’s residents.

Wilpattu is home to 253 Bird species including some endemic species. Some of the birds that you can spot; Sri Lanka Jungle fowl – (E), Sri Lankan Green Pigeon – (E), Sri Lanka Grey Hornbill – (E), Sri Lanka Brown-capped Babbler – (E), Green Imperial Pigeon, Pacific Golden-Plover – (M), Pin-tailed Snipe – (M), Wooly-neck Stork, Grey-headed Fish Eagle, Crested Serpent-eagle etc.

Best season

• Anytime of the year

Highlights

• The grassland rings the Villu pool, which is the most unique and attractive feature of Wilpattu. Natural, circular depressions in the ground collect water and have a very low gradient, making them devoid of an inlet or outlet. This will provide an excellent opportunity to enjoy the beauty of the ecosystem and explore the various animal behaviors and feeding. Visitors come to Wilpattu to spot the elusive Sri Lankan Leopard and Sloth Bear leisurely.

What we offer

• General guided safaris
• Guided bird watching tours
• Guided mammal tours
• Qualified and experienced naturalist
• Binoculars, guide books & check lists
• Refreshments and pack lunch (Pack lunch for full day safari)

IMPORTANT FACTORS

• Clients should carry their personal effects for Warm/Windy/Rainy conditions.
• Recommendations include the use of insect repellent, sunburn lotion, etc.
• Special dietary requirements should be notified in advance.
• Clients must have good pair of Shoes/boots, long sleeve t-shirts and pants.
• The experienced and well-trained guide would take every precaution to ensure the safety and wellbeing of all guests on tour as your safety is our prime concern. However, Paradise Island Safari or its employees do not accept any liability for death, injury or illness of guest while on tour caused by any animal, reptile, insect, and events of nature or any type of accident.