Wilpattu National Park

From Colombo Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB)

• By Private Taxi/Car:
  • Distance: Approximately 180 kilometers
  • Duration: 3.5 to 4 hours
  • Cost: LKR 15,000 to LKR 25,000 depending on the vehicle type
  • Route: Via Negombo, Puttalam, and then Wilpattu
• By Bus:
  • Route: CMB Airport to Negombo Bus Station, then Negombo to Puttalam, and finally Puttalam to Wilpattu
  • Duration: 5 to 6 hours
  • Cost: LKR 600 to LKR 1,000
• By Train:
  • Route: Colombo Fort Railway Station to Puttalam, followed by a bus or taxi to Wilpattu
  • Duration: 4 to 5 hours
  • Cost: LKR 350 to LKR 600

Transportation Within Wilpattu

• Safari Jeeps: Available for rent at park entrances
  • Cost: LKR 6,000 to LKR 10,000 per half-day safari
  • Bicycles and Motorbikes: Not permitted inside the park due to wildlife

• Luxury Lodges:
  • Leopard Trails Wilpattu: Luxury tents with all modern amenities
  • Wilpattu Safari Camp: Premium safari experience with guided tours
• Mid-Range Hotels:
  • Wilpattu Tree House: Unique stay amidst nature
  • Big Game Camp Wilpattu: Comfortable tented accommodation
• Budget Options:
  • Wilpattu House: Homely guesthouse with basic amenities
  • Backpacker’s Lodge: Affordable dormitory-style rooms

• Wildlife Safaris: Spot leopards, elephants, sloth bears, and crocodiles
• Bird Watching: Over 200 species including painted storks and crested serpent eagles
• Exploring Villus: Natural lakes like Kali Villu and Periya Villu
• Nature Walks: Guided nature walks around the buffer zone
• Photography: Capture the stunning landscapes and wildlife

• Dry Season (February to October): Best time for wildlife sightings
• Wet Season (November to January): Lush greenery, but some areas may be inaccessible

• Permits: Entry fee is LKR 1,000 for locals and USD 25 for foreigners
• Attire: Light, breathable clothing in neutral colors
• Essentials: Binoculars, insect repellent, sunscreen, and hats
• Guides: Hire experienced guides for the best safari experience
• Health: Carry basic medications and stay hydrated

• Anuradhapura: Ancient city with UNESCO World Heritage Sites (50 km away)
• Kalpitiya: Famous for dolphin and whale watching (90 km away)
• Mannar Island: Known for bird watching and historic sites (120 km away)
• Thanthirimale Temple: Ancient Buddhist temple with rock carvings (40 km away)