Wasgamuwa National Park, National park in Central Province, Sri Lanka
Wasgamuwa National Park is a protected area in Sri Lanka's Central Province covering about 39,000 hectares of dry mixed evergreen forests, scrubland, and grasslands. The landscape provides habitat for elephants, leopards, sambar deer, and numerous bird species across varied terrain.
The area around this park served as a key junction on ancient trade routes connecting different regions of the island. It was officially designated as a national park in 1984 to protect its forests and wildlife populations.
Local populations near Wasgamuwa National Park engage in eco-tourism initiatives that provide economic opportunities while maintaining environmental conservation practices.
The best time for wildlife watching falls between May and September when animals gather at limited water sources. Visitors should join guided walks and wear light, protective clothing during these months.
Research teams conduct extensive studies on elephant behavior and migration patterns within the reserve. These investigations contribute significantly to understanding elephant populations across South Asia.
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