Wilpattu National Park is one of Sri Lanka’s largest and oldest national parks, covering approximately 1,317 square kilometres (131,693 hectares) of dry lowland wilderness in the North Western and North Central Provinces. Its name literally means “Land of Lakes” in Sinhala, derived from the many natural rain‑fed lakes called “villus” — shallow, sand‑rimmed basins that fill with water and dot the landscape, creating an unusual and rich habitat for wildlife.
Located roughly 30 km west of Anuradhapura and 26 km north of Puttalam — about 180 km north of Colombo — Wilpattu lies in Sri Lanka’s dry zone, where sparse scrub forest, grasslands, and dense patches of woodland intermingle with its unique network of villus. The terrain ranges in elevation from sea level up to around 152 meters, and its natural lakes serve as vital water sources that attract wildlife throughout the year.
Wilpattu was originally declared a wildlife sanctuary in 1905 and later became a national park in 1938, making it one of the earliest protected areas in the country. Today it is renowned for its diverse flora and fauna, including over 30 species of mammals such as the elusive Sri Lankan leopard, Sri Lankan elephants, sloth bears, spotted deer, and water buffalo, as well as a rich array of birdlife and reptiles.
The park’s villus not only define its landscape but also create natural waterholes that support wildlife, especially during the dry season, making Wilpattu a rewarding destination for jeep safaris, wildlife photography, and birdwatching. Its relatively low visitor numbers and vast open spaces offer a quieter and more immersive safari experience compared to some other parks in Sri Lanka.
Whether you’re hoping to spot a leopard resting by a villu, elephants cooling off near water, or a variety of water birds against the backdrop of pristine wilderness, Wilpattu National Park stands out as a true highlight of Sri Lanka’s natural heritage.