Wilpattu Half Day Safari From Anuradhapura
Active
6h - 7h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Join us for an exhilarating safari in Wilpattu National Park, starting at 5:00 AM, where you have a prime opportunity to see Sri Lanka's elusive leopards in their natural habitat. Wilpattu is renowned for its healthy population of these magnificent big cats, making it a must-visit destination for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers.
Tour Highlights:
Leopard Spotting: With its unique mix of open plains and dense scrub, Wilpattu provides the perfect environment for spotting leopards, especially during the early morning when they are most active.
Expert Guidance: Our knowledgeable safari guides are experienced in tracking leopards and will share their insights on the behavior and habitat of these majestic animals.
Rich Biodiversity: In addition to leopards, you’ll have the chance to see elephants, deer, and a variety of bird species, all set against the backdrop of the park’s stunning landscapes.
Embark on an extraordinary journey to witness the beauty of wildlife.
Available options
Wilpattu Half Day Safari From Anuradhapura
Pickup included
What's included
Pick up and Drop off from Anuradhapura by air conditioned vehicle
Safari Jeep - 4 hours
English Speaking chauffeur Driver and Safari Guide
Mineral Water Bottle
Detailed itinerary
1
Wilpattu National park is among the oldest and most important of protected areas in Sri Lanka. It also contains a number of important cultural sites. The sanctuary lies inland from the coast and is entirely within Northern Province. It is contiguous with the park, the intervening boundary being marked by the Moderagam Aru. The only practical access from Colombo would be via Negombo, Chilaw and Puttalam. The turn off is at the little hamlet of Thimbiriwewa on the 28 th mile post along the Puttalam Anuradhapura road and the park office where one obtains permit and a guide is at Hunuwilagama 8km from the turn off.
The main topographical feature in this park is the concentration of “villus” or “lakes” within it. The striking feature, though confined to certain sectors of the park, is copper red, loamy soils extremely varied. The western sector of the park with deeply forested areas and thorny bushes is reminiscent of Yala National Park in southern Sri Lanka. Characterized by inter monsoon rains in March and April, an extensive drought from May until early September and a major rainy season (Northern Monsoon) from September until December.
Mammalian diversity and ecological densities are highest in such ecotomes as the interfaces between forest, scrub and grasslands converge in the west and the “villus” and drainage systems in the center of the park. A total of 31 species of mammals have been recorded but additional species of Rodentia and Chiropotera undoubtedly present. Among the most conspicuous reptiles are common.
What's not included
Wilpattu National Park Entrance Ticket
Any other service not mentioned in inclusions
All government taxes and service charges
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
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Tripadvisor
4.3
4 reviews
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Important information
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
About Anuradhapura
Anuradhapura is a major city in Sri Lanka, famous for its well-preserved ruins of an ancient Sri Lankan civilization. It is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city is a pilgrimage site for Buddhists and offers a rich cultural and historical experience.
Top Attractions
Sacred City of Anuradhapura
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Sacred City of Anuradhapura is home to ancient stupas, temples, and ruins that date back over 2,000 years.
Historical
Full day
Free
Ruwanwelisaya Dagoba
One of the tallest stupas in the world, this iconic structure is a significant pilgrimage site for Buddhists.
Religious
1-2 hours
Free
Sri Maha Bodhi
A sacred fig tree that is said to have been propagated from the original Bodhi tree under which Buddha attained enlightenment.
Religious
30 minutes to 1 hour
Free
Jethawanaramaya Dagoba
The tallest stupa in Anuradhapura, known for its impressive size and historical significance.
Historical
1 hour
Free
Isurumuniya Temple
A beautiful temple known for its rock carvings and serene atmosphere.
Religious
1-2 hours
Free
Must-Try Local Dishes
Kottu Roti
A popular Sri Lankan dish made with chopped roti, vegetables, and meat or seafood, cooked on a hot plate.
Dinner
Can be made vegetarian or vegan.
Hoppers
Bowl-shaped pancakes made from fermented rice flour and coconut milk, often served with eggs or sambal.
Breakfast
Vegetarian.
Rice and Curry
A staple Sri Lankan meal consisting of steamed rice served with a variety of curries.
Lunch/Dinner
Can be made vegetarian or vegan.
Lamprais
A Dutch-influenced dish consisting of rice, meat, and vegetables cooked in banana leaves.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains meat.
Popular Activities
Hiking in Mihintale
Exploring Ritigala Forest Monastery
Tea tasting
Visiting temples
Exploring ancient ruins
Attending religious ceremonies
Witnessing the Esala Perahera festival
Best Time to Visit
January to March
This is the best time to visit Anuradhapura as the weather is pleasant and dry, making it ideal for exploring the ancient ruins and enjoying outdoor activities.
28-32°C
82-90°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Sinhala, Tamil
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Moderately spoken
Currency
Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR)
Time Zone
UTC+5:30
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Anuradhapura is generally safe for travelers, but standard precautions should be taken to avoid petty theft and scams.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure.
- • Use reputable tour operators.
- • Be cautious of strangers offering unsolicited help.
Getting there
By air
- Colombo Bandaranaike International Airport • 200 km
By train
Anuradhapura Railway Station
By bus
Anuradhapura Bus Stand
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are the most common form of public transport and cover most areas of the city.
Taxis
Available • Apps: PickMe, Uber
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Sacred City
New Town
Tuktukaraya
Day trips
Mihintale
12 km • Half day
A sacred mountain site where Buddhism was first introduced to Sri Lanka, featuring ancient ruins and temples.
Ritigala Forest Monastery
30 km • Full day
A UNESCO-listed forest monastery with ancient ruins and a rich biodiversity.
Avukana Buddha Statue
50 km • Full day
A colossal Buddha statue carved out of a single rock, standing 40 feet tall.
Festivals
Esala Perahera • July/August (full moon day)
Poson Festival • June (full moon day)
Vesak Festival • April/May (full moon day)
Pro tips
- Visit the Sacred City early in the morning to avoid the heat and crowds.
- Hire a local guide for a more in-depth understanding of the historical sites.
- Try local street food for an authentic culinary experience.
- Respect the religious customs and traditions when visiting temples.
- Carry a water bottle and sunscreen to stay hydrated and protected from the sun.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
![Minneriya National Park Safari [Morning / Evening]](https://media-cdn.tripadvisor.com/media/attractions-splice-spp-674x446/15/1f/89/35.jpg)
