Wilpattu, Sri Lanka’s largest national park, is a sanctuary of quiet beauty. Known for its “villus” (natural lakes), dense forests and elusive leopards, it also shelters smaller elephant populations. Ideal for tranquil safaris, birdwatching and wilderness lovers seeking an uncrowded, immersive experience in one of the country’s most scenic natural landscapes.

• Sri Lanka’s largest national park
• Famous for natural lakes (villus)
• Forested, quiet and deeply serene
• Small elephant herds, shy but visible
• Home to leopards and sloth bears
• Perfect for solitude and photography

Wilpattu National Park, located northwest of Anuradhapura, is not just Sri Lanka’s largest national park, it’s also one of its most mystical and underappreciated. Spanning over 1,300 square kilometres, the park is a rich mosaic of dense forests, grasslands and over 60 “villus”, natural rain fed lakes that give Wilpattu its unique charm.

While Wilpattu is better known for its leopard sightings, it is also home to smaller, shy herds of wild elephants. These gentle giants are often spotted near the water’s edge, especially in the early mornings or late evenings when the park is cloaked in stillness. Unlike more crowded parks, Wilpattu offers solitude and silence, making every encounter feel more sacred.

The park is also teeming with crocodiles, deer, peacocks and over 200 bird species, making it a paradise for wildlife photographers and naturalists. With long, uninterrupted jeep trails and fewer vehicles, safaris here feel like true explorations rather than tourist circuits.

Sri Lanka Tailor-Made recommends Wilpattu for those who value peace, patience and authentic wilderness experiences. It’s a place where nature unfolds at her own pace, no crowds, no rush, just raw, quiet beauty waiting to be discovered.