Wilpattu Sanctuary was declared a National Park in 1938. Wilpattu National Park is located on the west coast close to the historical city of Anuradhapura. The dry zone jungle is thickly grown. Wilpattu National Park is home for many natural lakes which dot the landscape. These lakes contain rainwater and are important for resident and migratory water-birds and other wildlife.
The history of the park is also of interest for ancient ruins having been discovered in Wilpattu National Park. A queen named “Kuweni” (considered to be the mother of the Sinhala race) is said to have lived in the place known as Kalli Villu. Historical evidence also shows the fact that Prince Saliya, son of King Dutugemunu lived in Wilpattu over 2,000 years ago.
Jeep Safaris in Wilpattu National Park
Jeep Safari is the regular norm in exploring the Wilpattu National Park. While leopards, elephants, sloth bears, deers and endemic birds can be sighted easily during a half day safari, ofcourse the full day safari at this National Park gives greater joys with wildlife. During the safari, you are not supposed to get off the jeep at the tracks of the wild animals and expose yourself to the possible encounters in the wilderness. With the rangers at the Wilpattu National Park guiding the wildlife safaris, the visitors are always safe though in the thick of wilderness.
Night Safari - After daylight is gone, we can take you to a another unique experience, which is spotting night wildlife, such as Fishing Cats and Jungle Cats. Fishing Cats and Jungle Cats cannot be seen at day time because these animals start their hunts at night time. Around 7:30pm the Night Safari will start and this will be a 2hrs Game Drive.
