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How to Plan Your Day Tour to Wilpattu National Park from Bentota
Are you a nature lover and want to visit the Wilpattu National Park in northwest Sri Lanka to experience the diverse flora and fauna? This breathtaking park boasts natural lakes alongside wild leopards, elephants, water buffalo, sloth bears, and more. However, organizing a visit to the park can be a hassle, especially as it’s considered somewhat off-the-beaten-track. That’s why we recommend booking a private tour from Bentota to make your experience stress-free and more enjoyable. Here’s how to plan your day tour to Wilpattu National Park from Bentota.
Step 1: Choose the Best Tour Company
To have a comfortable and hassle-free tour experience, we recommend booking a tour with a reliable and reputable third-party tour company. One such company is Viator, which offers a private tour from Bentota to Wilpattu National Park. With this tour, you get a 4WD drive through the wetlands and jungle and transport in an air-conditioned vehicle. The English-speaking chauffeur will pick you up from your hotel in Bentota and drop you off after the tour. Moreover, you get to spend the entire day in the park, watching for the wildlife.
Step 2: Choose the Best Time to Visit the Park
The best time to visit Wilpattu National Park is between February and October when the dry weather conditions make it easier to spot animals coming out to drink from the water’s edge. During the rainy season, from November to January, the park’s marshes and swamps flood, and it’s difficult to spot wildlife.
Step 3: Choose Your Safari Option
Viator offers two options for this tour: a full-day tour and a half-day tour. The full-day tour starts early in the morning, and you’ll spend approximately 11 hours in the park. The half-day tour starts at noon, and you’ll spend about 6 hours in the park. Select the option that suits your schedule, energy level, and interest in exploring the park.
Step 4: Take Precautions Before Entering the Park
Wilpattu National Park is home to many wild animals, including leopards, elephants, and sloth bears. Before entering the park, take necessary precautions to ensure your safety. Here are a few essential tips to remember:
- Wear neutral-colored clothes to blend in with the surroundings and avoid bright colors that can attract animals.
- Carry a hat or a cap, sunscreen lotion, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun.
- Bring insect repellent creams, socks, and long-sleeved clothes to avoid mosquito bites.
- Bring a camera or a phone with enough storage capacity to capture the scenic beauty and wildlife of the park.
- Always follow the guidelines provided by the driver or tour guide and avoid feeding, approaching, or teasing wild animals.
Step 5: Enjoy Your Safari Tour
Finally, the time has come to enjoy your safari tour in the park! On arriving at the park, you’ll receive an entry ticket which is not included in the tour package. The ticket price may vary depending on your nationality and age. The driver or tour guide will take you through the park, and you get a chance to view a wide variety of animals and birds. The tour includes a 4WD drive through the wetlands and jungle and a stop for lunch (at your own cost) at a restaurant near the park. Relax and enjoy the scenic beauty and diverse wildlife of the park.
Conclusion
Booking a private tour to Wilpattu National Park from Bentota is an excellent way to experience the diverse wildlife of Sri Lanka. Follow these simple steps to plan your tour and enjoy your safari amidst the wild beauty of the park. Remember to choose the best tour company, visit the park during the right time, choose your safari option, take necessary precautions before entering the park, and finally, enjoy your safari tour. Book the tour here and have an unforgettable experience!
An Insider’s Guide to Negombo
As a vibrant coastal town in Sri Lanka, Negombo is the perfect destination for tourists who want to experience an authentic Sri Lankan culture. Known for its vibrant fishing market, sandy beaches, and colonial architecture, Negombo is a melting pot of various cultures. Here are some hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path suggestions that will add flavor to your trip to Negombo.
Local Attractions
While Negombo has plenty of popular attractions, there are a few lesser-known gems that only the locals know about. One of them is the Angurukaramulla Temple, which is located near the lagoon. It has a unique architectural style and is home to several ancient murals, statues, and a giant Buddha statue. Another hidden gem is the Negombo Dutch Fort, built in the 17th century, which is now a prison, but you can still wander the fort walls and take in the stunning vistas of the Indian Ocean.
Dining Spots
Negombo is famous for its fresh seafood, and there’s no better spot to indulge in it than the Lellama Fish Market. Here, locals sell the freshest seafood that you won’t find in restaurants. You can bring your catch to a nearby restaurant, and they will cook it for you. If you’re craving a sweet treat, head to the Rio Ice Cream parlor, which has been serving up homemade ice cream since 1884.
Cultural Experiences
While you’re in Negombo, you should attend the Negombo Fisherman’s Festival, which takes place every year in May. You’ll see fishermen participating in various traditional fishing competitions, like the “Catamaran Race.” You’ll also get a chance to sample a wide range of seafood, prepared in traditional Sri Lankan style.
Local History
Negombo has a fascinating history, and one place that brings it to life is the Negombo Lagoon. Here you can see the traditional fishing methods used by locals, which date back centuries. It is also a key spot for the colonial-era trading posts and a historic center for Cinnamon cultivation.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions
If you’re looking for something truly unique, you should try the Negombo Bike Tour. The tour will take you through the city’s lesser-known streets and markets, where you’ll get to interact with the locals and explore the city’s hidden gems.
For a truly unforgettable experience, head to the Muthurajawela Marsh, which is a unique wetland ecosystem that is home to over 200 species of birds. You can take a boat ride through the mangrove forest, and if you’re lucky, you may spot some of the rarest birds on the planet.
In conclusion, Negombo offers an array of hidden gems and offbeat experiences that can add an exciting twist to your Sri Lankan experience. From the tranquil wetlands to the bustling fishing market, there is something for everyone here. Don’t forget to bring your camera and share your experiences with your friends!
