Basic ecotouristic information on Wilpattu National Park (Sri Lanka) - localization, access, characteristic, fauna and flora, possible activities.
Localization
North West Sri Lanka, 180 km north of Colombo, 30 km west of Anuradhapura
Access
Easy. The only practical access from Colombo would be via Negombo, Chilaw and Puttalam. The turn off is at the little hamlet of Thimbiriwewa on the 28 th mile post along the Puttalam Anuradhapura road.
Characteristic
1317 km2; Flat to slightly rolled area of north western coastal lowlands (from the sea to 152 m above sea level). Semi-arid part of Sri Lanka. The western margin of the park is characterised by littoral sands. Unique phenomenon of this park: system of about 60 natural waterholes (villus) with sandy banks. Rain water is the only source of the ponds´ water. Most of ponds are temporary water tanks, only a few are permanent ones. Typical ecosystems: dry evergreen forest, salines, wetlands- periodically flooded plains, sea and sea coast biotopes.
Fauna + Flora
Species List - See the Attachment Below
(Species list may not be complete)
Possible activities
Birdwatching and nature observation
Jeep safari riding
Note
Walking tourism is not allowed
Best time to visit II and X
Many archaeological finding places
This national park was closed for a long time because of security reasons. It was re-opened in 2003, but still not very often visited.