Wasgamuwa National Park
A hidden gem nestled between history and wilderness, where majestic elephants roam freely and ancient ruins whisper forgotten tales.
📍 Location & Size
Wasgamuwa National Park is located in the central part of Sri Lanka, bordering the Matale and Polonnaruwa Districts. It lies between the Mahaweli River and the Amban Ganga, covering approximately 39,000 hectares. It is about 225 km from Colombo, and a perfect midway stop between the cultural triangle and the hill country.
🌳 A Sanctuary of Peace & Rich Biodiversity
Wasgamuwa is less visited than Yala or Minneriya, making it one of Sri Lanka’s most peaceful and unspoiled national parks. The landscape varies from dense riverine forests and grasslands to dry monsoon forests, creating ideal habitats for a wide range of wildlife.
The name “Wasgamuwa” derives from “Walas Gamuwa” — meaning “forest of sloth bears” in Sinhala.
🐘 Wildlife Highlights — The Elephant Kingdom
Wasgamuwa is renowned for its large elephant population, often seen in herds along riverbanks or grasslands.
Other key wildlife includes:
🐘 Asian elephants (one of the highest densities in Sri Lanka)
🐻 Sri Lankan sloth bears (a rare sighting, but a highlight)
🐆 Leopards (elusive but present)
🦌 Spotted deer, sambar deer
🐃 Wild water buffalo
🐊 Mugger crocodiles
🦝 Toque macaques, purple-faced langurs
🦜 Birdwatcher’s Paradise
With over 140 species of birds, Wasgamuwa is ideal for birders, especially near wetlands and riverbanks.
Notable sightings include:
🦚 Sri Lanka junglefowl (national bird)
🐦 Painted storks, black-headed ibis
🦉 Brown fish owls, Malabar pied hornbills
🐤 Endemics like the Sri Lanka grey hornbill and red-faced malkoha
🏛️ History Among the Trees
Scattered throughout the park are ruins of ancient irrigation systems, temples, and tanks from the Polonnaruwa era. You may come across stone pillars, ancient canals, or dilapidated stupas — silent reminders of a civilization that coexisted with this forest centuries ago.
🚙 Safari Experience
Safaris in Wasgamuwa are more intimate, with fewer jeeps and a greater sense of solitude. This makes it ideal for:
🧘♀️ Nature lovers and photographers
📷 Peaceful wildlife viewing
🐾 Tracking elephants or sloth bears
👨👩👧👦 Families seeking a quiet escape
🌿 Why Visit Wasgamuwa?
One of the least crowded parks in Sri Lanka
High elephant population
Good chance to see sloth bears
Rich with ancient ruins and history
A serene and authentic safari experience
Supports conservation and eco-tourism
