Description
Wilpattu National Park is the largest national park in Sri Lanka, located on the island’s northwest coast. It is known for its diverse ecosystems, including lakes, scrublands, and dense woodlands, providing a habitat for a wide variety of wildlife.
- Location: Wilpattu National Park is situated in the North Western Province of Sri Lanka, approximately 30 kilometers west of Anuradhapura and 26 kilometers north of Puttalam.
- Size: Covering an area of around 1,317 square kilometers, Wilpattu is the largest national park in Sri Lanka.
- Biodiversity: The park is renowned for its rich biodiversity, with diverse flora and fauna. It is home to a wide range of wildlife, including the Sri Lankan elephant, leopard, sloth bear, spotted deer, sambar deer, wild boar, and various species of birds, reptiles, and amphibians.
- Lakes and Villus: Wilpattu is characterized by a unique feature known as “villus” – natural, shallow water basins or lakes. These villus attract a variety of wildlife, especially during the dry season when water sources become limited.
- Leopards: Wilpattu is one of the best places in Sri Lanka to spot leopards. The park’s diverse landscapes, including thickets and open areas around the villus, provide suitable habitats for these elusive big cats.
- Bird Watching: The park is a paradise for bird watchers, with over 200 recorded bird species. Some of the notable birds include painted storks, white ibises, Asian openbills, and various species of eagles.
- Vegetation: The park’s vegetation includes dry zone tropical evergreen forests, monsoon forests, and scrublands, contributing to its ecological diversity.
- History and Culture: In addition to its natural wonders, Wilpattu has historical and cultural significance. The park contains ancient ruins, including the Kudiramalai point and several ancient stupas. The park’s name, “Wilpattu,” is derived from the “Villus” and the “Pattu” (meaning land) that form its landscape.
- Accessibility: The park can be explored through guided jeep safaris, providing visitors with the opportunity to observe wildlife in their natural habitats.
- Conservation: Wilpattu National Park has faced challenges such as illegal logging and poaching, but conservation efforts have been implemented to protect its unique ecosystems and biodiversity.
