Wilpattu National park

Size	131,693 hectares
Main attraction	Leopards
Other Wildlife	Elephants, sloth bear , leopard water buffalo, and spotted deer, crocodile.

Situated 180 km from Colombo, and about 50 km from Anuradhapura Wilpattu National park is the largest wild life sanctuary in Sri Lanka. Declared as a sanctuary in 1938, and subsequently a national park, Wilpattu reserve, is a popular attraction for both tourists and wildlife enthusiasts

This park is packed with over 30 'vilas' or lakes and sandy tracks. Vila is defined as a natural depression generally circular with gently sloping banks - natural pool.

The park was closed in 1996 after LTTE Tiger Terrorists brutally murdered 26 of it employees. The park once again opened to the public in March 2003 after 18 years. During these 18 years the jungle was a heaven for the terrorists, poachers and illegal timber traders.

The park can be reached through Puttlam and is approximately 180 km from Colombo and Approximately 50 km from the ancient city of Anuradhapura. From Puttlam turn left to the Anuradhapura Road. The turnoff to the Wilpattu Entrance is close to the 43rd km post on this road. From this turn you need to travel about 10 km's on this road to reach entrance to the park.

If you are coming from Anuradhapura you need travel almost 40 km on the Anuradhapura - Puttlam road to the turn off.

					Total
From	Colombo	To	Wattala	08
			Negambo	35
			Chillaw	80
			Puttlam	132
From	Puttlam	To	Wilpattu Junction	43	175
From	Wilpattu Junction		Wilpattu Entrance	10	185