Willpattu National Park
The magnificent Wilpattu National Park in the North West, is Sri Lanka’s largest and oldest protected wildlife sanctuary that extends from the north west coast to the north central province. This vast wilderness has varying natural habitats including coastal areas and natural lakes (villus); open grass lands and thick jungles. These habitats provide a complex eco-system for many species of animals including the endangered Leopard subspecies – Panthera Pardus Kotiya, which is only found in Sri Lanka as well as Sloth Bear, elephants, sambar, mugger crocodiles and much more. Many species of exotic birds including Painted Stok, Ibis, Spoon Bill and more can be seen by the villus. Set away from the main tourist routes, Wilpattu’s jungles can be experienced in peace. Winding roots wrapped around age old trees; lush green grasslands and vast lakes where water buffalo laze….always attracts ardent nature lovers. Wilpattu National Park can be accessed travelling along the West coast or from Anuradhapura in the north central region.
Manner
The magnificent Wilpattu National Park in the North West, is Sri Lanka’s largest and oldest protected wildlife sanctuary that extends from the north west coast to the north central province. This vast wilderness has varying natural habitats including coastal areas and natural lakes (villus); open grass lands and thick jungles. These habitats provide a complex eco-system for many species of animals including the endangered Leopard subspecies – Panthera Pardus Kotiya, which is only found in Sri Lanka as well as Sloth Bear, elephants, sambar, mugger crocodiles and much more. Many species of exotic birds including Painted Stok, Ibis, Spoon Bill and more can be seen by the villus. Set away from the main tourist routes, Wilpattu’s jungles can be experienced in peace. Winding roots wrapped around age old trees; lush green grasslands and vast lakes where water buffalo laze….always attracts ardent nature lovers. Wilpattu National Park can be accessed travelling along the West coast or from Anuradhapura in the north central region.
- Go on an adventurous jeep safari in search of the elusive leopard in Wilpattu.
- Take in Wilpattu’s scenic villus and waterways where birds flock.
- Spot exotic migrant birds in Mannar during the migrant season from November to April.
- Explore the colonial period Fort and churches in Mannar.
Accomodation in Northwest Wilderness
The number of eco-retreats and hotels providing a unique wildlife and leisure experience in this region is limited. There are a handful that are immersed in nature and are well placed to explore the jungles of Wilpattu and the bird watching sites of Mannar.
Ibis Lodge, Wilpattu
The Ibis Lodge is a 6 bedroom eco-retreat that is immersed in nature and located about 20 minutes away from the Wilpattu National Park entrance.
Thimbiriwewa Resort, Wilpattu
A welcoming holiday retreat that is immersed in nature and located just 10 minutes from the Wilpattu National Park entrance. The buildings are contemporary in design and stands tall amidst the surrounding wilderness.
Palmyrah House, Mannar
An eco-friendly boutique hotel situated in Mannar Island on the North West coast. It is situated on extensive wetlands, close to several natural habitats where exotic resident and migrant birds flock to especially during the migrant season from about November to April.