Visit the largest nature sanctuary Sri Lanka has to offer, the expansive wilderness of the Wilpattu National Park is home to some of the famous and thrilling animal species on the island! Head out into the bush and observe the magnificent sights of vast elephant herds, while away the time as you watch the playful antics of resident macaque troops, and if you’re lucky, catch a glimpse of the elusive leopard as it stalks its prey when dusk approaches. There are so many thrills and spills to be had out here!
Sri Lanka has often been cited as one of Asia’s premier safari destinations and locations like Wilpattu are a prime example of this. First established as a sanctuary over a century ago, the vast stretches of scrubland, forest and signature villus make a perfect refuge for all manner of interesting creatures. While it’s home to the popular animals like leopards and elephants, you’ll also meet some of Sri Lanka’s more peculiar wildlife here as well, for example, the curious sloth bear and the shy slender loris.
Wilpattu is a paradise for birdwatchers as well, with a remarkable array of avifauna – both local and migratory – nesting within the park’s premises. Some notable varieties include the vibrantly painted stork, the endemic Sri Lankan jungle fowl and the black-headed Ibis. All in all, a trip to Wilpattu is likely to be an adventure you won’t soon forget!
