Best Places to Visit in Wilpattu National Park | Travel Guide (2024) | Things to Do, See & Eat
Wilpattu National Park Travel Guide
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- Wilpattu National Park Travel Videos
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- Best Places To Visit In Wilpattu National Park
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- Tours And Activities In Wilpattu National Park
- Food And Drinks To Try In Wilpattu National Park
- Best Time To Visit Wilpattu National Park
- Flight Calendar For Wilpattu National Park
- Transportation To Wilpattu National Park
Welcome to Wilpattu National Park, located in the beautiful country of Sri Lanka. Known as the largest and oldest national park in the country, Wilpattu offers a truly unique and unforgettable experience for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. Spread across an impressive 1,317 square kilometers, this park is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including the elusive Sri Lankan leopard, elephants, sloth bears, and a variety of bird species. With its picturesque landscapes, tranquil lakes, and dense forests, Wilpattu National Park is a must-visit destination for those seeking an authentic and immersive wildlife adventure.
Wilpattu National Park Travel Videos
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Best Places To Visit in Wilpattu National Park
1. Colombo: The bustling capital city of Sri Lanka, Colombo offers a perfect blend of modernity and tradition. Explore the vibrant markets, visit historical sites such as the Gangaramaya Temple, and indulge in delicious street food. Don't miss the opportunity to take a stroll along Galle Face Green, a popular promenade overlooking the Indian Ocean.
2. Kandy: Nestled amidst lush green hills, Kandy is home to the sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic, which houses a tooth of Lord Buddha. Immerse yourself in the city's rich cultural heritage by witnessing traditional dance performances and visiting the Royal Botanical Gardens. Take a scenic train ride through the tea plantations to experience the breathtaking beauty of the surrounding countryside.
3. Galle: Located on the southwestern coast of Sri Lanka, Galle is a charming coastal town with a rich colonial history. Explore the well-preserved Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and wander through its narrow streets lined with Dutch-style buildings. Enjoy stunning views of the ocean from the fort's ramparts and visit the lighthouse for panoramic vistas.
4. Nuwara Eliya: Known as "Little England," Nuwara Eliya is a picturesque hill station surrounded by tea estates and mist-covered mountains. Experience a cooler climate as you stroll through beautifully manicured gardens and visit the iconic Gregory Lake. Don't forget to sample the world-renowned Ceylon tea and take a scenic hike to the nearby Horton Plains National Park.
5. Ella: Situated in the central highlands, Ella is a small town renowned for its breathtaking views and outdoor activities. Hike up to Ella Rock for panoramic vistas of the surrounding valleys and tea plantations. Visit the iconic Nine Arch Bridge, a marvel of engineering, and witness the train passing through its arches. Ella is also a great base for exploring nearby waterfalls and tea factories.
6. Anuradhapura: Step back in time and explore the ancient city of Anuradhapura, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Discover the well-preserved ruins of ancient temples, palaces, and monasteries that date back to the 3rd century BC. Marvel at the enormous dagobas (stupas) and the sacred Bodhi Tree, believed to be the oldest recorded tree in the world.
7. Sigiriya: Climb the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and be rewarded with breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. Admire the ancient frescoes on the rock walls and explore the beautifully landscaped gardens at the base. Don't miss the chance to visit the nearby Dambulla Cave Temple, adorned with intricate Buddhist murals.
8. Trincomalee: Located on the northeastern coast of Sri Lanka, Trincomalee is a paradise for beach lovers. Relax on the pristine white sandy beaches, go snorkeling or diving to explore the vibrant coral reefs, and witness the majestic blue whales during the whale-watching season. Visit the historic Koneswaram Temple, perched on a cliff overlooking the ocean.
9. Polonnaruwa: Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, Polonnaruwa is an ancient city that showcases the grandeur of Sri Lanka's medieval capital. Explore the well-preserved ruins of palaces, temples, and statues, including the iconic Gal Vihara with its magnificent rock-cut Buddha statues. Rent a bicycle to explore the vast archaeological site at your own pace.
10. Jaffna: Located in the northernmost part of Sri Lanka, Jaffna offers a unique cultural experience. Discover the vibrant Tamil heritage by visiting colorful Hindu temples and exploring the Jaffna Fort, a testament to the city's colonial past. Indulge in delicious Jaffna cuisine, known for its spicy flavors, and take a boat ride to the nearby islands for a glimpse of rural life.
Hotels Map Of Wilpattu National Park
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Tours And Activities In Wilpattu National Park
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Food & Drinks To Try In Wilpattu National Park
1. Hoppers: Hoppers are a popular Sri Lankan dish that you must try when visiting Wilpattu National Park. These are thin, crispy pancakes made from fermented rice flour and coconut milk. They are typically served with a variety of accompaniments such as coconut sambal, dhal curry, and spicy chutneys.
2. Kottu Roti: Kottu Roti is a delicious street food dish that originated in Sri Lanka. It is made by chopping up roti bread into small pieces and stir-frying it with vegetables, meat (usually chicken or beef), and a blend of spices. The rhythmic sound of the metal blades chopping the roti is a common sound in Sri Lankan streets.
3. String Hoppers: String Hoppers are another traditional Sri Lankan dish that you should try during your visit to Wilpattu National Park. These are delicate, steamed rice noodles that are typically served with a variety of curries and sambals. They are often enjoyed as a breakfast dish or as a light meal.
4. Lamprais: Lamprais is a unique Sri Lankan dish that is a must-try when visiting the country. It consists of a banana leaf parcel filled with a mixture of rice, meat (usually chicken or beef), and a variety of spices. The parcel is then baked or steamed, allowing the flavors to meld together. Lamprais is often served with accompaniments such as fried eggplant, blachan (shrimp paste), and sambols.
5. Ceylon Tea: Sri Lanka is famous for its tea production, and a visit to Wilpattu National Park is a great opportunity to sample some of the finest Ceylon tea. Whether you prefer black tea, green tea, or herbal infusions, you will find a wide variety of options to choose from. Don't forget to visit a tea plantation or tea factory to learn more about the tea-making process and enjoy a cup of freshly brewed tea.
6. King Coconut: When exploring Wilpattu National Park, make sure to try the refreshing and hydrating king coconut. This variety of coconut is native to Sri Lanka and is known for its sweet and slightly nutty flavor. The juice inside the king coconut is a popular thirst quencher and is often served chilled in its natural shell.
7. Wood Apple Juice: Wood apple, also known as "diwul" in Sri Lanka, is a fruit with a unique flavor that is often made into a refreshing juice. The juice is made by extracting the pulp from the fruit and mixing it with water, sugar, and a touch of lime juice. It has a tangy and slightly sweet taste that is perfect for quenching your thirst after a day of exploring the national park.
8. Kithul Treacle: Kithul treacle is a sweet syrup made from the sap of the kithul palm tree, which is native to Sri Lanka. It is often used as a sweetener in Sri Lankan desserts and is known for its rich, caramel-like flavor. You can drizzle it over pancakes, ice cream, or even enjoy it on its own as a sweet treat.
9. Curries: Sri Lankan cuisine is famous for its flavorful curries, and you will find a wide variety of curries to try in Wilpattu National Park. From spicy chicken curry to aromatic fish curry, there is something to suit every palate. Don't forget to try the traditional Sri Lankan rice and curry, which typically includes a selection of curries, sambals, and papadums.
10. Arrack: Arrack is a popular alcoholic beverage in Sri Lanka, made from the sap of coconut flowers or the juice of the kithul palm tree. It has a distinct flavor and is often enjoyed straight or mixed with soda or fruit juices. If you're looking to try a local Sri Lankan spirit, arrack is a great choice.
Best Time To Visit Wilpattu National Park
The best time to visit Wilpattu National Park in Sri Lanka is between February and October. During this period, the park experiences dry weather and the vegetation is less dense, making it easier to spot wildlife. The peak season for visiting Wilpattu National Park is from February to April, when the park is at its driest and the chances of spotting animals, including leopards, are higher. However, it is important to note that the park is closed for visitors during the monsoon season, which typically occurs from October to January. Therefore, it is advisable to plan your visit to Wilpattu National Park during the dry season to maximize your chances of wildlife sightings.
Flight Calendar For Wilpattu National Park
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Transportation To Wilpattu National Park
There are several transportation options to reach Wilpattu National Park in Sri Lanka:
1. Private Car/Taxi: The most convenient way to reach Wilpattu National Park is by hiring a private car or taxi. This allows you to have flexibility in terms of timing and stops along the way. The journey from Colombo, the capital city, takes approximately 3-4 hours.
2. Public Bus: Public buses are available from Colombo to Puttalam, which is the nearest town to Wilpattu National Park. From Puttalam, you can hire a tuk-tuk or taxi to reach the park entrance. The bus journey takes around 4-5 hours.
3. Train: You can take a train from Colombo to Puttalam and then hire a taxi or tuk-tuk to reach Wilpattu National Park. However, please note that the train journey may take longer compared to other modes of transportation.
4. Tourist Shuttle: Some tour operators and hotels offer shuttle services to Wilpattu National Park. These shuttles usually depart from major tourist areas such as Colombo, Negombo, or Anuradhapura. It is advisable to check with your accommodation or tour operator for availability and schedules.
5. Self-Drive: If you are comfortable driving in Sri Lanka, you can rent a car and drive to Wilpattu National Park. The roads are generally in good condition, but it is recommended to have a GPS or map for navigation.
It is important to note that Wilpattu National Park is located in a remote area, and the roads leading to the park may not be well-developed. It is advisable to plan your transportation in advance and check the road conditions before your visit.