About Us
About me
My name is Bhashi, and I am a local born and bred in Galkadawala Village – just on the outskirts of Wilpattu National Park. I am a 33 year old, genuine local Wilpattu lad. For me, growing up, Wilpattu was literally my backyard. My passion for wild animals, birds and flora & fauna was instilled in me as a kid. At the age of 20, I had acquired a wealth of knowledge about wild animals and fauna in the Park through my numerous visits and my countless close encounters with wild animals. The experience I have and bring to our safaris is one that only a genuine local Wilpattu Villager can relate to and provide to those visiting the Park.
Given my upbringing, my life and future were inevitably interwoven with Wilpattu Park. Soon after I finished school, I followed my heart and started working part-time with a Safari Jeep tracking wild animals for my guests in every nook and corner of the park. I soon realised I had an innate skill and an ability to “track” the King of Wilpattu – the elusive Sri Lankan Leopard by tracking the paw imprints on the sand and following the “alarm calls” of the Deer and other animals. I was able to develop my skills to spot and track the Leopard despite the animal’s remarkable skill to camouflage itself in the jungle.
In 2016 I started volunteering at the Department of Wildlife Conservation (DWC) in Sri Lanka as a Volunteer Tracker. Soon, I was able to specifically identify different Leopards that call the Park home by sight. I now have over 8 years of experience as a Tracker and know Wilpattu like the back of my hand.
Many leading naturalists, nature photographers and frequent visitors to the Park rely on my knowledge, skill and ability to track animals and to enhance their experience of the beautiful Wilpattu. A day in the Park with me will enrich you with knowledge and experience about the wildlife in Sri Lanka, and more often than not a memorable sighting of the King and if you are exceptionally lucky his Queen and their cuddly cubs! I am Bhashitha Jayathilake, founder and Operator of Visit Wilpattu.
A Little About
Wilpattu!
Wilpattu or the “land of lakes” is the largest national park in Sri Lanka with a land area of nearly 131,000 hectares. The park consists of lakes, large grass plains, thick forest and open white sand patches that make it one of the most beautiful National Parks in the country. The thick forest cover allows visitors a very comfortable drive even during the middle of the day, covered from the harsh rays of the sun.
The Park and its history is closely associated with the broader history of Sri Lanka. The arrival of Prince Vijaya, from India and the commencement of the Sinhala race as documented in the Mahavamsa, landed at Kudurimalai point on the Northern boundary of the park in 543 BC. Artifacts dating from the Bronze Age with clay burial sites and other ruins can still be seen in the park.
“Willy” as it is more affectionately known by locals is associated with leopards, and was once the premier park in the world for daylight viewing of this enigmatic cat. Unfortunately the park was closed for many years due to the civil war with the consequence that much of its wildlife was poached. Fortunately, Wilpattu is once again staking a claim as one of the best places in the world to have unhindered and undisturbed leopard sightings. Your best chance of seeing the elusive sloth bear in Sri Lanka is also at Wilpattu particularly during the wet season and fruiting season.
Wilpattu is also home to,- many species of resident and migrant birds, many species of deer and large herds of elephants during the dry season. The park is also host to Crocodiles, Buffalo and many smaller species that will make your safari an enriching and interesting experience.
“The Land of the lakes” is also a birders paradise with many species of resident and migrant birds. The endemic Ceylon Jungle Fowl and Ceylon Grey Hornbill are frequently seen as well as the threatened Lesser Adjutant Stork and Spot-billed Pelican. Laying claim to being the best song bird in the island, the White-rumped Shama is also easily seen in Wilpattu. Raptors like the White-bellied Sea Eagle, the Serpent Eagle, the Changeable Hawk Eagle and the Grey-headed Fish Eagle are often encountered on a safari in Wilpattu. The occasional Brown Fish owl can also be seen.
Why Visit Wilpattu?
A professional wildlife expert and tour guide with nearly 12 years of experience. We provide wildlife and photography tours for those interested in exploring Wilpattu. A full tour package including Jeep safari, accommodation, and meals can be arranged
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