Claughton Wild Wilpattu

Claughton Wild Wilpattu Craft unforgettable memories in Sri Lanka's wilderness. Spot leopards, elephants, and more on unforgettable wildlife adventures.

Our luxurious, private villas near Wilpattu National Park offer the perfect escape for families and groups.

The path from the chalet to the dining area — 50 steps through Wilpattu’s countryside.Forget traffic and crowded morning...
08/08/2026

The path from the chalet to the dining area — 50 steps through Wilpattu’s countryside.

Forget traffic and crowded morning commutes. Here, the journey to breakfast takes you along a peaceful pathway through the paddy fields towards the kamatha, surrounded by open skies, fresh air, and the sounds of nature waking up.

You might see a peacock moving through the grounds, hear birds calling from the trees, or simply enjoy the stillness of the landscape before the day’s adventures begin.

It’s a small part of the Claughton Wild experience, but sometimes the simplest moments are the ones you remember most.

There's no commute quite like it.

Summer isn't over yet.Before September arrives, there’s still time to take a few days away from the usual routine and re...
07/08/2026

Summer isn't over yet.

Before September arrives, there’s still time to take a few days away from the usual routine and reconnect with nature in Wilpattu.

Explore the park on morning or evening safaris, return to peaceful surroundings overlooking the paddy fields, and enjoy the comfort, food, and hospitality that make Claughton Wild feel like a true escape.

Sometimes the best trips are the ones you take before you think you need one.

What would your ideal end-of-summer escape look like?

How many leopards live in Wilpattu? Here's what researchers currently know.For years, leopards have been one of Wilpattu...
06/08/2026

How many leopards live in Wilpattu? Here's what researchers currently know.

For years, leopards have been one of Wilpattu’s greatest mysteries. Because these cats are solitary and move quietly through dense forest, understanding their numbers requires patience, technology, and careful research.

Recent camera trap studies estimate that Wilpattu National Park supports around 18 leopards per 100 km², with an estimated population of about 144 individual leopards across the park.

Researchers have also discovered just how much space these animals need. Male leopards can have territories stretching close to 50 km², while females generally occupy smaller ranges — showing just how important large, protected wilderness areas are for their survival.

The Sri Lankan leopard remains an endangered subspecies, making places like Wilpattu essential strongholds for conservation.

The surprising fact? For its size, Wilpattu holds one of the strongest leopard populations recorded anywhere through scientific studies.

📸 Photo credit: Russel Gray

Slow mornings at the lodge — pol roti, coconut sambol, and jungle views.There's something comforting about starting the ...
04/08/2026

Slow mornings at the lodge — pol roti, coconut sambol, and jungle views.

There's something comforting about starting the day with food that's simple, fresh, and full of flavour.

At Claughton Wild, breakfast might be warm pol roti served with freshly made coconut sambol and a cup of Ceylon tea, enjoyed as birds call across the paddy fields and the day slowly unfolds. It's an authentic taste of Sri Lanka before setting off to explore Wilpattu.

Sometimes, the best travel memories begin around the breakfast table.

How do you like your pol roti—just with sambol, or with a curry on the side?

August opens with a leopard sighting. The best kind of start.A quiet morning drive through Wilpattu brought one of the p...
01/08/2026

August opens with a leopard sighting. The best kind of start.

A quiet morning drive through Wilpattu brought one of the park’s most special moments — a leopard moving through the forest before finding a peaceful spot to rest in the shade.

These are the encounters that make every safari unique. The excitement comes from not knowing what waits around the next corner, and the reward comes from being patient enough to let the wilderness reveal itself.

With the season ahead, Wilpattu is already giving visitors unforgettable memories.

August is showing up.

📸 Photo credit: Russel Gray

Behind every safari story, there is a deeper story of dedication, knowledge, and conservation.On World Ranger Day, we ta...
31/07/2026

Behind every safari story, there is a deeper story of dedication, knowledge, and conservation.

On World Ranger Day, we take a moment to appreciate the people who work tirelessly to protect Sri Lanka’s natural heritage.

From understanding animal behaviour and protecting fragile ecosystems to guiding visitors through some of the country’s most remarkable landscapes, their commitment allows places like Wilpattu to remain wild and thriving.

Today, we celebrate their passion, courage, and the important role they play in safeguarding the wilderness we all admire.

Thank you to every ranger and conservation team member who helps protect Sri Lanka’s wild spaces.

The painted stork colony at Wilpattu — one of the park's most overlooked treasures.While many visitors arrive in Wilpatt...
30/07/2026

The painted stork colony at Wilpattu — one of the park's most overlooked treasures.

While many visitors arrive in Wilpattu hoping to see leopards, the park’s true richness lies in the incredible variety of life found throughout its forests, lakes, and wetlands.

One of its most impressive sights is the painted stork colony, where hundreds of these elegant birds gather together to nest. The movement, calls, and activity of the colony create a remarkable spectacle — a reminder of how much there is to discover beyond the usual safari highlights.

The nesting season is the best time to experience this gathering of birdlife at its most active, especially for photographers and nature enthusiasts.

📸 Photo credit: Balendran Dinesh

Have you ever visited a destination where the birdlife surprised you?

When the safari ends and the evening begins — this is how we close the day.After hours spent exploring Wilpattu, there i...
29/07/2026

When the safari ends and the evening begins — this is how we close the day.

After hours spent exploring Wilpattu, there is something special about returning to the stillness of Claughton Wild as the day begins to fade.

The evening starts slowly — with a sundowner, stories from the safari, and the peaceful view of the paddy fields changing colour with the setting sun. As daylight disappears, the sounds of the wilderness shift: birds settle, the night comes alive, and the surroundings take on a completely different rhythm.

It’s not about rushing to the next activity. It’s about enjoying the quiet moments in between.

How would you spend your perfect evening after a day on safari?

"We left feeling very lucky for having stayed in such a wonderful place." Reviews like this mean the world to us.From th...
28/07/2026

"We left feeling very lucky for having stayed in such a wonderful place."

Reviews like this mean the world to us.

From the peaceful setting just minutes from Wilpattu National Park to relaxing by the pool after a safari, sharing authentic Sri Lankan meals, and preparing packed breakfasts for early morning game drives, our team loves creating a stay that feels personal and welcoming.

Thank you to our wonderful guests for your kind words. We're so pleased you enjoyed not only the wildlife and beautiful surroundings, but also the warmth, care, and hospitality that make Claughton Wild feel like a home away from home.

What do you value most when choosing a place to stay—peaceful surroundings, great food, or genuine hospitality?

From the kitchen of Chef Jayaratne — today's lunch, made entirely from scratch.A simple plate of Sri Lankan rice and cur...
27/07/2026

From the kitchen of Chef Jayaratne — today's lunch, made entirely from scratch.

A simple plate of Sri Lankan rice and curry tells a story of freshness, tradition, and hospitality. The aroma of spices, the variety of flavours, and the care that goes into every dish are what make mealtimes at Claughton Wild such a memorable part of the stay.

Chef Jayaratne prepares authentic Sri Lankan meals using fresh ingredients and time-honoured recipes, creating the kind of food that feels comforting, generous, and familiar.

After a morning safari through Wilpattu, there’s nothing quite like returning to a delicious meal surrounded by nature.

Which Sri Lankan curry would you choose first from this plate?

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Pahala Maragahawewa
Nochchiyagama
50008

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