To celebrate Children's Day, the YMCA of Pamunugama organized an unforgettable trip to Wilpattu National Park, Sri Lanka's largest national park. The group of 41 included 8 children from Makalause Dream, 23 scouts from the YMCA of Pamunugama Scout group, 3 parents, and 7 staff and youth leaders.
The day began at 6.00 am as the group left Pamunugama, full of excitement. Our first stop was Anavilundawa, where we took a peaceful walk and watched the many birds that gather around the wetland. On the way north, we stopped at the salt farm in Palaviya, where the children saw how sea water is turned into the salt we use every day and watched the white salt heaps glittering in the sun.
We then took a short break at the Puttalam Lagoon Park, enjoying the fresh air and the view over the water before continuing the journey.
The highlight of the day came in the afternoon, when the group set out on a safari from 1.00 pm to 5.30 pm in five off-road safari vehicles. Wilpattu's forest tracks and natural lakes gave us a wonderful variety of wildlife. We saw a pair of foxes, a rabbit, jungle fowl, several deer, peacocks, and crocodiles resting by the water. Birdwatchers were rewarded with many species, including the Kedeththa and the snake eagle.
The most special moment was spotting a big cat(leopard) lying in the shade, which left the whole group silent and wide-eyed. Seeing such a rare animal in its natural home is something the children will remember for a long time.
After a full day of discovery, we returned to Pamunugama late in the evening, tired but happy. The trip was more than a day out. It gave our children a chance to connect with nature, learn about wildlife and conservation, and enjoy the day together as one big family. We thank the parents, staff, and youth leaders who made this special Children's Day possible.
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