Anuradhapura: Wilpattu National Park Day Trip With Entrance

Anuradhapura to Wilpattu National Park is a must-do day trip for wildlife enthusiasts visiting Sri Lanka. Priced at $160.00 per person, this 6-hour adventure promises an exhilarating experience exploring the country’s largest national park. From spotting leopards and elephants to admiring the diverse bird species, the journey offers a chance to take in Sri Lanka’s captivating natural wonders. With convenient transportation and an expert guide, the day trip ensures an unforgettable encounter with the untamed wilderness.

Key Points

• A day trip from Anuradhapura to Wilpattu National Park, Sri Lanka’s largest and oldest national park, priced from $160.00 per person.
• The 6-hour trip includes a 3-hour game drive to explore the park’s diverse landscapes and wildlife, such as leopards, elephants, and birds.
• The tour provides pickup and drop-off service from Anuradhapura and the use of a 4×4 safari jeep.
• Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and a reserve now & pay later option is provided.
• Visitors should confirm pickup time with the operator, bring recommended items, and be aware that the tour is not wheelchair accessible.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview and Pricing

This day trip from Anuradhapura to Wilpattu National Park is priced from $160.00 per person and lasts for 6 hours.

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Customers can also choose the reserve now & pay later option.

Wilpattu is Sri Lanka’s largest and oldest national park, covering 508 square miles.

Wilpattu National Park, Sri Lanka’s largest and oldest, spans an impressive 508 square miles.

Visitors can explore the park’s dense woodland, numerous lakes, and diverse wildlife, including leopards, elephants, and birds.

Itinerary and Experience

The day trip begins with pickup from Anuradhapura, followed by an approximately 40-minute drive to the entrance of Wilpattu National Park.

Visitors then embark on a 3-hour game drive to explore Sri Lanka’s largest and oldest national park, covering 508 square miles.

The park’s unique features, including dense woodland, numerous Villus (lakes), and a rich variety of birds, offer an opportunity to spot diverse wildlife such as leopards, elephant herds, spotted deer, sambhur, wild boar, and sloth bears.

After the safari, guests return to Anuradhapura, concluding the day’s adventure.

Exploring Wilpattu National Park

As visitors embark on the 3-hour game drive, they’ve the opportunity to explore the diverse landscapes and abundant wildlife within Wilpattu National Park.

Considered Sri Lanka’s largest and oldest national park, Wilpattu covers over 130,000 hectares of dense woodland, numerous lakes, and a rich variety of birds.

Guests may spot leopards, elephant herds, spotted deer, sambhur, wild boar, and sloth bears, among other species.

The park’s renowned leopard population and diverse bird life make it a prime destination for wildlife enthusiasts.

The game drive provides an immersive experience in this unique Sri Lankan ecosystem.

Wildlife and Attractions

Wilpattu National Park is renowned for its diverse wildlife, particularly its sizable leopard population and rich assortment of bird species.

Visitors to the park may spot a variety of animals, including:

• Elephants roaming in large herds

• Spotted deer, sambhur, and wild boar traversing the dense woodland

• Elusive sloth bears foraging for food

With over 130,000 hectares of protected land, Wilpattu offers ample opportunities to witness the natural wonders of Sri Lanka’s largest and oldest national park.

The park’s unique landscape, featuring numerous shallow lakes known as "Villus," further enhances the wildlife viewing experience.

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Inclusions and What to Bring

The tour includes a safari through Wilpattu National Park, as well as pickup and drop-off service from Anuradhapura and the use of a 4×4 safari jeep.

Guests should bring a hat, camera, sunscreen, and water to ensure they’re prepared for the day’s activities.

Be sure to pack a hat, camera, sunscreen, and water to stay prepared for the day’s adventures.

It’s important to confirm the pickup time with the operator and wait at the designated area.

Contacting the operator for any delays or assistance is recommended.

However, early or late pickup may not be possible, and additional charges may apply for locations outside the city limits.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and not recommended for those with serious injuries or medical conditions.

Important Details and Recommendations

Guests should bring a hat, camera, sunscreen, and water to ensure they’re prepared for the day’s activities.

The pickup time should be confirmed with the operator, and guests should wait at the designated area. If there are any delays or the need for additional assistance, guests are advised to contact the operator.

Keep in mind that early or late pickup isn’t possible, and there may be additional charges for locations outside the city limits.

• Confirm pickup time with the operator

• Wait at the designated area for pickup

• Contact the operator for delays or additional assistance

Getting to Wilpattu National Park

Anuradhapura, the historic city, lies approximately 40 minutes away from the entrance to Wilpattu National Park.

The journey offers a scenic drive through the countryside, providing a glimpse into the region’s natural beauty. Visitors will be picked up from their Anuradhapura accommodation and transported directly to the park’s main gate.

Upon arrival, they’ll receive their entry tickets and begin their exciting safari experience. The transfer is included in the tour package, ensuring a seamless and hassle-free transition from the city to the wilderness.

Guests can sit back, relax, and anticipate the wildlife encounters that await them within Wilpattu’s expansive landscapes.

Booking and Cancellation Policy

With a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance, travelers can book this day trip with confidence.

The tour operator also offers a "reserve now, pay later" option, providing greater flexibility.

Additionally:

• Prices start from $160 per person, making it an affordable way to explore Wilpattu National Park.

• The 6-hour tour includes pickup, a 3-hour game drive, and drop-off back in Anuradhapura.

• Travelers are advised to confirm pickup time, bring necessary items, and be ready at the designated area to ensure a smooth experience.

Common Questions

What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Wilpattu National Park?

The best time to visit Wilpattu National Park is during the dry season, which runs from May to September. This is when wildlife sightings are most abundant, and the weather is ideal for outdoor activities.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Safari?

Visitors can bring their own snacks and drinks on the safari. However, the operator recommends purchasing food and refreshments from the Puttalam Hotel after the game drive to support the local community.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

There are no age restrictions for this tour. Children of all ages are welcome to join the safari. The tour operator can accommodate families and travelers of any age group.

Is It Possible to Extend the Duration of the Safari?

Yes, it’s possible to extend the safari duration. Guests can request an extended safari, subject to availability and additional fees. The operator can provide details on longer excursion options upon request.

Can I Book the Tour in a Language Other Than English?

The tour can be booked in several languages, including English. Travelers should check with the operator about language options when making their reservation. Some tours may have multi-lingual guides available.

The Sum Up

The Anuradhapura to Wilpattu National Park day trip offers an exciting wildlife adventure. At $160 per person, the 6-hour experience includes a scenic drive, a thrilling 3-hour game drive, and the chance to spot leopards, elephants, and diverse bird species. With convenient pickup and drop-off services, this trip provides unforgettable opportunities to explore Sri Lanka’s largest national park.

You can check availability for your dates here: