Wilpattu National Park

A brief look

It is Sri Lanka's largest and oldest national park, and its name derives from the many 'villus' or natural lakes that dot the landscape. The park has an area of 1317 square kilometers. Wilpattu is located in the country's North Central Province, near to the heritage city of Anuradhapura. And, if you're wondering how to travel to Wilpattu National Park from Anuradhapura, it's only 30 kilometers west of town. Hunuwilgama is the park's primary entrance. It is one of the greatest sites in the world to watch leopards, elephants, and sloth bears. The region is covered with saltgrass meadows and lush monsoon rainforest, with characteristic red dirt on the ground. The safari jeep tour in Wilpattu National Park is the greatest method to see the entire area.

Popular Tourist spots

Mammals

The park is home to over 31 creatures, including the leopard, elephant, sloth bear, barking deer, spotted deer, water buffalo, and wild boar.

Birdlife

Wilpattu is a bird sanctuary, with lakes maintaining an abundance of them. It is home to several wetland bird species, indigenous birds, and birds of prey.

Reptiles and Amphibians

The Monitor Lizard, Mugger Crocodile, Common Cobra, Rat Snake, Indian Python, Pond Turtle, and Soft Shelled Turtle may all be found here.

Flora

Dry zone tree species including Palu, Weera, Milla, Wewarna, Satin, and Ebony are plentiful in the park but nearly extinct elsewhere on the island.

Palace of Kuveni

When Prince Vijaya arrived in Sri Lanka, he saw Kuveni, queen of the Yaksha tribe, weaving cotton. Her palatial ruins may be seen inside Wilpattu.

Thanthirimale Rajamaha Vihare

The Sri Maha Bodhi, which arrived from India, was once protected for a night by this old 3rd BC temple. There are several ruins in the region.