Kurunegala to Wilpattu National Park

Language

Sinhala and Tamil are the official languages of Sri Lanka. However, English is widely spoken in tourist areas, including Wilpattu National Park.

Currency

The official currency of Sri Lanka is the Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR). It is recommended to exchange your currency before arriving in Sri Lanka or use ATMs to withdraw cash.

Distance

The distance between Kurunegala and Wilpattu National Park is approximately 150 kilometers (93 miles).

How to Reach

There are several ways to travel from Kurunegala to Wilpattu National Park:

• By Car: The most convenient option is to rent a car and drive, which takes about 4 hours.
• By Bus: Buses depart from Kurunegala Bus Station to Anuradhapura, which is the closest town to the park. From there, you can take a taxi to Wilpattu National Park.
• By Train: Train services are available from Kurunegala to Anuradhapura. Upon arrival in Anuradhapura, you can take a taxi or bus to the park.

Expenses

The following are approximate expenses for a trip from Kurunegala to Wilpattu National Park:

• Transportation: LKR 3,000-5,000 for a car rental or bus/train fare
• Park Entrance: LKR 3,000 per person
• Jeep Safari: LKR 8,000-12,000 for a 4-hour safari
• Accommodation: LKR 5,000-10,000 per night for a hotel or guesthouse
• Food and Drinks: LKR 1,000-2,000 per day

Best Time to Go

The best time to visit Wilpattu National Park is during the dry season, which runs from May to September. During this time, the weather is pleasant, and wildlife sightings are more frequent.

What to Eat

Sri Lankan cuisine is a blend of flavors and influences. Here are some must-try dishes when in Wilpattu National Park:

• Rice and Curry: A staple dish consisting of rice served with a variety of curries.
• Kottu Roti: A chopped flatbread with vegetables, meat, and spices.
• Hoppers: Bowl-shaped pancakes made with coconut milk and served with various fillings.
• String Hoppers: Steamed rice noodles served with sambol and other condiments.

Where to Go

In addition to Wilpattu National Park, here are some other places to explore in the area:

• Anuradhapura: An ancient city with ruins of Buddhist temples and monasteries.
• Polonnaruwa: Another ancient city with well-preserved ruins and historical sites.
• Minneriya National Park: A wildlife sanctuary known for its large elephant herds.

FAQ

• Is it safe to travel from Kurunegala to Wilpattu National Park?
  Yes, it is generally safe to travel between these two locations.
• Can I book a jeep safari in advance?
  Yes, it is recommended to book a jeep safari in advance, especially during the peak season.
• Are there any ATMs in Wilpattu National Park?
  No, there are no ATMs within the park. It is advisable to bring enough cash.
• What is the best way to get around the park?
  The best way to explore Wilpattu National Park is by jeep safari.