Wilpattu, Sri Lanka's largest national park spanning 130,000 hectares, has recently reopened after years of closure due to armed conflict. It is 58 km from Anuradhapura Airport. It boasts a renowned leopard population, surpassing Yala in its prominence. A distinctive feature of Wilpattu is the presence of "Villus," large sand-rimmed lakes that collect rainwater and attract wildlife, particularly during droughts.
Leopards and sloth bears are the main attractions in Wilpattu, while the park also offers excellent opportunities to spot barking deer. Bounded by two significant rivers: Modara Gamaru to the north and Kala Oya to the south. Wilpattu also holds archaeological and historical significance as the birthplace of the Sinhalese kingdom.
