Wildlifeof Sri Lanka
Wildlife in Wilpattu National Park
North Western & North Central Provinces
Sri Lanka's largest national park, a quieter alternative to Yala. Dense dry forest is broken up by 'villus' — natural sand-rimmed lakes — where leopards, sloth bears and deer come to drink. Fewer jeeps mean longer, calmer sightings.
Highlights
- Leopards and sloth bears with far fewer vehicles than Yala
- Villu lakes full of waterbirds
- Long full-day safaris
Top wildlife targets
Trip reports from here
Sub-locations
Quick answers
- What wildlife can you see in Wilpattu National Park?
- Top wildlife targets in Wilpattu National Park include Leopard, Sloth Bear, Asian Elephant, Sambar, Chital, Mugger Crocodile and Lesser Adjutant. Highlights: Leopards and sloth bears with far fewer vehicles than Yala.
- Where is Wilpattu National Park?
- Wilpattu National Park is in North Western & North Central Provinces, Sri Lanka (about 8.45°, 80.05°).
- What are the highlights of Wilpattu National Park?
- Leopards and sloth bears with far fewer vehicles than Yala, Villu lakes full of waterbirds and Long full-day safaris.
- Are there trip reports for Wilpattu National Park?
- Yes: Sri Lanka in March 2011: blue whale, leopard and elephant from Wilpattu to Mirissa and Sri Lanka in April 2025: fishing cat, leopard and sloth bear on a family trip.