Global National Parks

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National Parks in Sri Lanka, Nature Reserves, and Protected Areas

National Parks of Sri Lanka boast unmatched biodiversity, making them the perfect destination for those seeking to immerse themselves in untamed nature. The island nation south of the Indian subcontinent, in the Indian Ocean, features an extensive network of national parks and nature reserves, offering opportunities to explore everything from dense tropical jungles to vast open plains, where wildlife can be observed in its purest state. Whether you’re a safari enthusiast, a hiking aficionado, or someone simply looking to enjoy a unique vacation surrounded by extraordinary landscapes, Sri Lanka’s national parks, formerly known as Ceylonese parks, provide an unforgettable experience. Discover the most prominent protected areas in detail and everything you need to know to plan your next adventure in Sri Lanka’s natural wonders.

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Information about Sri Lanka’s National Parks

National Parks, Nature Reserves, and Protected Areas in Sri Lanka

History of Sri Lanka’s National Park Network

Sri Lanka’s national park network formally began developing during the British colonial era, initially focusing on protecting iconic species like elephants and leopards, which were threatened by unregulated hunting. As awareness of the island’s biodiversity grew, the government introduced the Fauna and Flora Protection Ordinance of 1937 (No. 2), establishing a legal framework for creating and managing national parks. Today, these parks are managed by the Department of Wildlife Conservation.

Currently, Sri Lanka boasts an impressive network of protected areas covering 29.86% of the country’s territory. This network includes 27 national parks, along with nature reserves, protected forests, and other conservation categories. This management strategy has enabled the protection of not only large mammals but also significant ecosystems like tropical forests, wetlands, and marine zones.

Biodiversity and Endemism in Sri Lanka’s National Parks

Sri Lanka is considered one of the world’s biodiversity hotspots due to its high level of endemism. Among the more than 3,200 species of flowering plants on the island, 916 are endemic, meaning they are found nowhere else on Earth. Additionally, Sri Lanka is home to over 140 species of amphibians, many of which are unique to the island, as well as a surprising diversity of freshwater crabs.

Sri Lanka’s national parks also play a vital role in conserving dipterocarps, a type of tree that includes over 55 endemic species. These species, along with other plants and animals, make the protection of national parks essential for preserving global biodiversity.

The Evolution of Protected Areas in Sri Lanka

Over time, the network of protected areas has expanded to include a wide range of habitats. In addition to national parks, Sri Lanka features 7 nature reserves, 94 forest reserves, 3 strict nature reserves, and 56 sanctuaries, among other designations. This complex structure allows for more targeted protection of the island’s diverse ecosystems. There are also 6 Ramsar sites dedicated to wetland conservation, and the country is home to 4 UNESCO biosphere reserves, further reinforcing Sri Lanka’s commitment to conservation.

National Protected Areas in Sri Lanka

Protected areas in Sri Lanka are crucial for conserving biodiversity and preserving the island’s unique ecosystems. These areas are classified into six main categories, each designed to protect different aspects of the natural environment and manage sustainable resource use. The first four categories cover a wide range of regions and habitats across the country, while the last three categories were introduced in 1993 following an amendment to the Fauna and Flora Protection Ordinance. However, to date, no area has been officially designated under these newer categories. These are:

Location and Accessibility

Sri Lanka’s national parks are scattered across the island, making it relatively easy to include a visit to one or more of them in any travel itinerary. From southern parks like Yala and Udawalawe to those in the central and northern regions, such as Wilpattu and Minneriya, all parks are accessible via public transportation or private vehicles. Many visitors choose to hire local guides or join organized tours to make the most of their experience.

For details on how to reach each park, we recommend reading the guides for each national park.

Best Time to Visit Sri Lanka’s National Parks

The best time to visit Sri Lanka’s national parks varies depending on geographical location and climate. Generally, the most recommended months are from December to April, when the weather is drier, and animals are easier to spot. Some parks, like Yala and Minneriya, are known for spectacular elephant sightings during the dry season, while parks like Horton Plains offer cooler temperatures and excellent hiking trails year-round.

List of National Parks in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka’s national parks are protected spaces where visitors can enjoy wildlife observation and study in their natural habitats. Although open to the public, these parks have strict regulations aimed at safeguarding both animal species and their habitats. These rules ensure that human activities, such as safaris and tourism, are conducted responsibly and with minimal impact on the ecosystem.

Yala National Park

Yala National Park is Sri Lanka’s most famous park, renowned worldwide as one of the best places to see leopards in the wild. In addition to leopards, Yala is home to abundant wildlife, including elephants, buffalo, and a variety of exotic birds. The park is divided into several zones, allowing safaris in different areas to maximize wildlife viewing opportunities.

Udawalawe National Park

Famous for its elephant population, Udawalawe is a favorite destination for wildlife enthusiasts. Its open landscape makes it easy to spot these giants, as well as other species such as crocodiles and water buffalo. Udawalawe is also home to an important elephant orphanage, offering a unique opportunity to learn about conservation efforts in the country.

Wilpattu National Park

Wilpattu is Sri Lanka’s largest and one of its oldest national parks. Known for its tranquil lakes, called "villus," Wilpattu offers a more relaxed safari experience, away from the crowds. Here, in addition to leopards and elephants, you can observe a wide variety of water birds and rare mammal species.

Horton Plains National Park

Horton Plains is a unique national park located in Sri Lanka’s central highlands. Famous for its stunning mountain landscapes and hiking trails, such as "World’s End," this park is ideal for trekking enthusiasts. It is also home to many endemic species of flora and fauna, making it a standout spot for birdwatchers and nature lovers.

Minneriya National Park

Known for "The Gathering," a natural phenomenon where hundreds of elephants congregate around Minneriya Lake during the dry season, this park is one of the best places to see elephants in large numbers. In addition to elephants, you can spot crocodiles, deer, and a wide variety of water birds.

Kumana National Park

Kumana National Park, located on Sri Lanka’s east coast, is a sanctuary for migratory birds. Thousands of birds flock to this park every year, making it a must-visit destination for birdwatchers. Kumana is also home to elephants, leopards, and crocodiles, and is characterized by its tranquility compared to other, more popular parks.

Gal Oya National Park

Gal Oya is unique for its Senanayake Samudraya Lake, where boat safaris allow visitors to observe elephants swimming between the lake’s islands. Besides elephants, the park is home to leopards, sloth bears, and numerous bird species.

Wasgamuwa National Park

Located in central Sri Lanka, Wasgamuwa is a less-visited but equally fascinating park. Known for its high population of elephants, the park also hosts sloth bears, deer, and a wide variety of birds. It’s the perfect spot for those seeking a quieter safari experience.

Kaudulla National Park

Similar to Minneriya, Kaudulla National Park is famous for its gatherings of elephants around its reservoir during the dry season. The park also shelters leopards, deer, and a vast array of water birds, making it an excellent destination for photographic safaris.

Pigeon Island National Park

Pigeon Island is a marine national park located off Sri Lanka’s northeast coast. This park is ideal for diving and snorkeling enthusiasts, boasting some of the most accessible coral reefs in the country. The crystal-clear waters around the island allow visitors to observe rich marine life, including turtles, reef sharks, and colorful tropical fish.

Adam’s Bridge Marine National Park

This marine national park, located near Sri Lanka’s mountainous region, is known for its biodiversity and unique landscapes. Adam’s Bridge National Park offers hiking routes through rainforests and upland grasslands. It is home to many endemic species of flora and fauna and holds religious significance due to its proximity to Adam’s Peak, a major pilgrimage site.

Angammedilla National Park

Angammedilla National Park was created to protect the Parakrama Samudra reservoir and its surroundings. It’s an ideal spot for observing wildlife, including elephants, deer, and wild boars. Its dense forest and varied topography also make it a haven for many bird species, making it popular among birdwatchers.

Chundikkulam National Park

Located on Sri Lanka’s northeast coast, Chundikkulam National Park is a wetland sanctuary hosting a rich diversity of migratory birds. It’s an essential stop for birdwatching enthusiasts, and its serene atmosphere, surrounded by lagoons and mangroves, provides a vital refuge for wildlife.

Delft Island National Park

Delft Island National Park, situated on the remote Delft Island in northwest Sri Lanka, is unique for its wild horses, descendants of animals introduced during the colonial period. The island also features fascinating coral rock formations and diverse fauna, including seabirds, reptiles, and small mammals.

Flood Plains National Park

Flood Plains National Park, located in the Trincomalee district, protects a vast area of seasonal wetlands critical to the region’s biodiversity. During the rainy season, the wetlands fill up, attracting a variety of water birds and other species. It is a prime spot for birdwatching and wetland ecology enthusiasts.

Galway’s Land National Park

Galway’s Land is a small but significant national park near the city of Nuwara Eliya. Known for its diversity of endemic birds and montane vegetation, it serves as a sanctuary for many endangered species. The park offers tranquil trails for birdwatchers and nature lovers.

Hikkaduwa National Park

Hikkaduwa is one of Sri Lanka’s most famous marine national parks, known for its vibrant coral reef. The park is popular with diving and snorkeling enthusiasts, as the clear waters allow for viewing colorful marine life, including tropical fish and sea turtles. Its proximity to the shore makes it an accessible and easy-to-explore destination.

Horagolla National Park

Horagolla National Park is one of the smallest parks in Sri Lanka’s system, but its dense forest makes it an important habitat for many endemic species. It is known for its rich biodiversity of birds and small mammals, making it a haven for wildlife enthusiasts.

Horowpathana National Park

Horowpathana is a relatively new national park in northern Sri Lanka, established to protect the local elephant population. This park offers opportunities to see large herds of elephants in their natural habitat, as well as leopards and a wide variety of birds.

Goat National Park

Goat National Park is characterized by its arid, rocky landscape, home to various wildlife species adapted to these extreme conditions. Notable species include wild goats and other small mammals that inhabit the area. It’s a little-visited park, ideal for those seeking a more isolated experience.

Lahugala Kitulana National Park

Located near Sri Lanka’s east coast, Lahugala Kitulana is one of the country’s smallest national parks but is an important habitat for elephants. During the dry season, elephants are drawn to the park’s waterholes, making them easy to spot. Additionally, the park hosts a wide variety of water birds.

Lunugamvehera National Park

This national park was established to protect the Lunugamvehera Reservoir and its surrounding habitat. It serves as a vital wildlife corridor connecting several national parks, allowing free movement of elephants and other species. Additionally, Lunugamvehera is home to rich biodiversity, including leopards, buffalo, and deer.

Madhu Road National Park

Madhu Road National Park, located in the coastal region, is known for its network of rivers and lagoons winding through mangroves. This park is a haven for aquatic ecosystems and boat safaris, offering close encounters with wildlife, including crocodiles and a wide variety of water birds.

Maduru Oya National Park

Maduru Oya is renowned for both its scenic beauty and archaeological significance. The park hosts diverse wildlife, including elephants and leopards, as well as ancient ruins that belong to some of the earliest human settlements in Sri Lanka.

Somawathiya National Park

Somawathiya National Park is located in central Sri Lanka and is famous for the Buddhist shrine that gives it its name. In addition to its religious importance, the park is rich in wildlife, including elephants and a variety of bird species. The park’s seasonal wetlands are also a highlight for birdwatchers.

Ussangoda National Park

Ussangoda is unique for its coastal landscape and distinctive red cliffs. Located on Sri Lanka’s southern coast, this park is known for its geology and biodiversity. It offers breathtaking ocean views and serves as an important protected area for sea turtles nesting on its beaches.

Bundala National Park

Bundala National Park spans 248 km², with 62 km² at its core, and is a vital biosphere reserve located on Sri Lanka’s southwestern coast. As one of the country’s most renowned Ramsar sites, Bundala is famous for its coastal lagoons and marshes, making it a haven for migratory birds, including flamingos. The park is also home to a diverse array of wildlife, including crocodiles, elephants, and leopards. Bundala provides a unique experience for birdwatchers and conservation enthusiasts within a protected environment.

Ramsar Sites in Sri Lanka

Ramsar sites in Sri Lanka are ecologically significant protected areas recognized for their value in wetland conservation and biodiversity. These ecosystems not only provide habitats for a wide range of species, including many endangered ones, but also play a crucial role in mitigating climate change and maintaining water resources. Below are some of Sri Lanka’s most prominent Ramsar sites.

Kumana Wetland Complex

The Kumana Wetland Complex, located in southeastern Sri Lanka, spans 190 km² and is renowned for its rich birdlife. Situated between Kumana National Park and the Panama-Kudumbigala Sanctuary, this site serves as a refuge for migratory birds, which arrive in large numbers during migration seasons. In addition to birds, the wetlands provide habitats for elephants, crocodiles, and other wildlife. Visitors can enjoy safaris and witness the diverse species that depend on these ecosystems for survival.

Annaiwilundawa Tanks Sanctuary

Annaiwilundawa Tanks Sanctuary, located in northwestern Sri Lanka, covers an area of 1,397 hectares. This Ramsar site is a complex of ancient reservoirs used for water management since pre-colonial times. These water bodies are a haven for a rich variety of aquatic birds, both resident and migratory, and provide essential habitats for the region’s biodiversity. It is an ideal destination for birdwatchers and those interested in the intersection of traditional water management systems and ecosystem conservation.

Maduganga

The Ramsar site of Maduganga, situated in southwestern Sri Lanka, spans 915 hectares and is known for its lagoon and mangrove ecosystem. This wetland comprises two interconnected water bodies: the Maduganga Lagoon and Randombe Lake, forming a unique wetland complex. The brackish waters support a wide variety of aquatic species, while the surrounding mangroves are vital for fish breeding and other organisms. The area is famous for its boat tours, allowing close exploration of its flora and fauna.

Vankalai Sanctuary

Vankalai Sanctuary, located in northwestern Sri Lanka in the Mannar region, covers 4,839 hectares and is a key site for migratory bird conservation. This wetland serves as a vital refuge for numerous bird species during their annual migrations, especially those traveling long distances from the Northern Hemisphere. Vankalai also plays a crucial role in preserving coastal areas and local marine resources, serving as feeding and breeding grounds for many aquatic species.

Wilpattu Ramsar Wetland Complex

The Wilpattu Ramsar Wetland Complex, spanning 1,658 km², is situated in northwestern Sri Lanka and forms part of the broader Wilpattu National Park region. This Ramsar site is known for its natural network of lagoons or "villus," which provide essential habitats for numerous water birds, mammals, and reptiles. Wilpattu is also famous for its biodiversity, including elephants, leopards, and crocodiles. Safaris are available to explore the extensive wetland network that plays a vital role in the region’s ecological balance.

UNESCO Biosphere Reserves in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is home to several UNESCO-designated biosphere reserves, which combine biodiversity conservation with sustainable development and scientific research. These reserves protect some of the island’s richest and most diverse ecosystems, from dry forests to tropical rainforests, providing habitats for an impressive variety of endemic and threatened species. Below are the main biosphere reserves in Sri Lanka.

Hurulu Forest Reserve

The Hurulu Forest Reserve, located in the Anuradhapura district of north-central Sri Lanka, spans 255 km² and is an excellent example of evergreen dry forest. It is one of Sri Lanka’s most important areas for elephant conservation.

The forest is home to numerous endangered species, including turtles, elephants, leopards, the Sri Lankan junglefowl, and the rare rusty-spotted cat. The reserve plays a critical role in biodiversity conservation and offers opportunities to explore its fascinating wildlife and ecosystems.

Kanneliya-Dediyagala-Nakiyadeniya Biosphere Reserve

Located in Sri Lanka’s southern interior, the Kanneliya-Dediyagala-Nakiyadeniya Reserve spans 201 km² and is known for its lowland tropical and montane forests. Situated between the Gin and Nilwala rivers, the reserve hosts remarkable plant diversity, particularly dipterocarps. With over 319 woody plant species and 220 animal species, including 41 endemics, it is a refuge for Sri Lanka’s unique wildlife. Key species in the area include the Sri Lankan hanging parrot, the Sri Lanka myna, and the crimson-fronted barbet.

Sinharaja Forest Reserve

The Sinharaja Forest Reserve spans 112 km² in Sri Lanka’s southern mountains. This primary rainforest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to an extraordinary variety of flora and fauna, including many endemics. It is a highly valued destination for both scientists and tourists who wish to experience the rich natural heritage of one of the country’s last remaining untouched rainforests. Visits to the reserve are regulated to ensure the fragile ecosystem is preserved for future generations.

Strict Nature Reserves in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka’s strict nature reserves are specially protected areas aimed at conserving unique and fragile ecosystems. These areas are managed under strict regulations that limit human intervention, allowing nature to take its course without interference and maintaining the region in its pure natural state. Below are the main strict nature reserves in the country.

Yala Strict Nature Reserve

The Yala Strict Nature Reserve is located adjacent to Yala National Park in southwestern Sri Lanka and Kumana National Park in the northeast. This restricted-access area protects the most sensitive ecosystems, allowing local flora and fauna to thrive undisturbed. Its proximity to the sea and Block II of Yala National Park makes it a crucial refuge for threatened species, including leopards and elephants. The reserve acts as a natural corridor between protected areas, contributing to ecological connectivity.

Hakgala Strict Nature Reserve

Established in 1938, Hakgala Strict Nature Reserve spans 11.4 km² and is the only reserve of its kind in a wet zone. Situated in the Hakgala massif in the south-central region of the country, it rises between 1,650 and 2,180 meters above sea level. This area features lush cloud forests and is adjacent to the famous Hakgala Botanical Garden, founded in 1860. With an annual rainfall of 2,400 mm spread over 211 days, the reserve hosts remarkable biodiversity. Key species include the purple-faced langur, Sri Lankan macaque, wild boar, sambar deer, and Sri Lankan leopard. Local legends link the reserve to the Ramayana epic, as it is said that Ravana, the demon king of Lanka, hid in these sacred forests.

Ritigala Strict Nature Reserve

Ritigala Strict Nature Reserve, located in north-central Sri Lanka, spans 15.28 km² in a dry zone. The reserve not only protects an important ecosystem but also houses a historic Buddhist monastery and the Ritigala Mountain. The mountain rises 766 meters above sea level, with a significant elevation of 600 meters above the surrounding plains. The Ritigala range comprises four peaks, with Ritigala Kanda being the highest and featuring a unique microclimate that receives up to 1,250 mm of rainfall at its summit. Vegetation varies by altitude, with mixed evergreen forests in the lower zones, tropical montane forests on the mid-slopes, and montane forests at higher elevations. The reserve is a sanctuary for many endemic flora and fauna species, with its isolation aiding in the preservation of these species in their natural habitat.

Forest Reserves and Proposed Reserves in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka’s Department of Forest Conservation manages an extensive network of forest reserves and proposed conservation areas. These regions protect ecosystems rich in biodiversity, contributing to the preservation of endemic species and vital habitats. While some reserves are fully protected, others are in the process of being officially designated as conservation areas. Below are some of the key forest reserves and proposed reserves in Sri Lanka.

Bambarabotuwa

Bambarabotuwa is a biodiversity-rich forest reserve that protects endemic flora and fauna species of Sri Lanka. Its dense forest cover and rugged terrain provide suitable habitats for various mammals and birds, making it essential for conserving local water resources.

Beraliya Proposed Reserve

The Beraliya Proposed Reserve is among the areas awaiting enhanced protection. This region is known for its diverse vegetation, including trees and plants unique to this area. The proposal for its conservation aims to safeguard these unique ecosystems from potential anthropogenic threats.

Dellawa Proposed Reserve

The Dellawa Proposed Reserve is another area in the process of official designation. Located in a biodiversity hotspot, this reserve harbors a wide range of plant species, many of which are crucial for maintaining the ecological balance of the area. Dellawa’s flora is vital for both local wildlife and the protection of soil and water resources.

Delwala

Delwala Forest Reserve is renowned for its densely wooded landscapes and the diverse wildlife it supports. This area is key to the conservation of Sri Lanka’s forest ecosystems and plays a significant role in protecting vulnerable species dependent on these forests.

Gilimale-Erathna

Gilimale-Erathna is a forest reserve known for its mountainous ecosystem and rich biodiversity. It serves as a haven for many species of flora and fauna, particularly those adapted to Sri Lanka’s higher, wetter regions. Its conservation is vital for maintaining the health of surrounding ecosystems.

Kalugala

Kalugala is one of Sri Lanka’s most diverse forest reserves, known for its varied vegetation, including rare and endemic species. This area plays a crucial role in preserving local biodiversity and regulating regional water cycles.

Quekunandura

Quekunandura is another critical conservation area due to its high biodiversity. Its native vegetation provides habitats for a wide variety of species and is essential for the ecological stability of the region. Protecting this area is key to long-term biodiversity preservation.

Kombala-Kottawa

Kombala-Kottawa is a forest reserve distinguished by its dense tropical forest cover. It serves as an important refuge for many animal and plant species, including several endangered ones. The reserve also serves as a vital area for scientific research on tropical forest ecology.

Malambure

The Malambure Reserve is known for its biodiversity and well-preserved ecosystems. The rich fauna and flora found in this reserve make it a key site for conserving endemic and threatened species, as well as for protecting water resources.

Morapitiya Runakanda

Morapitiya Runakanda is a forest reserve that supports a wide range of flora and fauna species. Preserving its ecosystems is critical to ensuring the survival of native species and providing essential ecological services, such as watershed protection.

Mulatiyana

Mulatiyana is a forest reserve rich in native tree and plant species. Its unique biodiversity makes it an area of great interest for conservation, particularly for the protection of endemic and endangered species that depend on this environment.

Nahitimukalana Proposed Reserve

The Nahitimukalana Proposed Reserve is a pending conservation area characterized by its dense and varied vegetation. Official designation as a protected area would ensure the preservation of its ecosystems and help mitigate the impacts of human development in the region.

Oliyagankele

The Oliyagankele Forest Reserve is known for its unique biodiversity and the ecological importance of its ecosystem. The tropical forests in the area host a wide variety of endemic plant and animal species, making its conservation essential for the region’s environmental health.

Ramamala Kanda

Ramamala Kanda is a mountainous forest reserve with a wide diversity of flora and fauna. Conservation of this area is crucial for maintaining natural habitats and protecting endangered species residing in its forests.

Viharakele

The Viharakele Reserve hosts a variety of forest ecosystems that provide shelter to many plant and animal species. It is an essential part of Sri Lanka’s conservation network, helping to protect watersheds and maintain biodiversity in the region.

Yagirala

Yagirala is a key forest reserve for scientific research and biodiversity conservation. Its native vegetation and well-preserved ecosystems make it an important site for protecting endemic species and studying ecological processes in tropical forests.

Natural Reserves in Sri Lanka

Natural reserves in Sri Lanka are protected areas where wildlife observation and research are restricted. Unlike strict nature reserves, they allow the continuation of traditional human activities while prioritizing the conservation of ecosystems and the species inhabiting them. Scientific research is encouraged under the supervision of the Department of Wildlife Conservation staff, ensuring that study activities are conducted respectfully and sustainably.

Triconamadu Nature Reserve

Declared a nature reserve on October 24, 1986, Triconamadu covers an area of 25,019.3 hectares. This vast land area is dedicated to protecting various species of fauna and flora dependent on the region’s natural ecosystems. Traditional human activities continue here under strict regulations to ensure the ecological balance of the area is not endangered.

Riverine Nature Reserve

Established on July 31, 1991, the Riverine Nature Reserve covers 824.1 hectares. It is a valuable space for conserving aquatic ecosystems and the species dependent on the rivers and streams traversing it. Scientific research is permitted under supervision, aiming to better understand these aquatic ecosystems and ensure their long-term protection.

Minneriya-Girithale Nature Reserve

The Minneriya-Girithale Nature Reserve is divided into several blocks, each designated on different dates, and spans a significant area. This complex is renowned for protecting elephants and other species inhabiting its grasslands and forested areas.

Minneriya-Girithale Block I

Declared on February 12, 1988, Block I covers 7,529.1 hectares. It is one of the oldest blocks in the complex and plays a key role in conserving large mammals and other regional wildlife.

Minneriya-Girithale Block II

Established on June 25, 1993, Block II spans 1,923.6 hectares. This protected area is important for wildlife conservation, particularly during seasonal migrations of elephants and other species.

Minneriya-Girithale Block III

Block III, covering 4,745.3 hectares, was designated as a reserve on July 7, 1995. It contributes to connectivity between different conservation areas, facilitating species movement across the protected landscape.

Minneriya-Girithale Block IV

Declared on September 1, 1997, Block IV covers 8,335.5 hectares. Its importance lies in conserving water resources and grasslands essential for the region’s wildlife.

Wetahirakanda Nature Reserve

Declared on June 7, 2002, the Wetahirakanda Nature Reserve spans 3,229 hectares. This protected area stands out for its biodiversity and its role in conserving threatened species. Limited traditional human activities are permitted, ensuring a balance between conservation and local practices.

Wilderness Peak Nature Reserve

Covering an area of 12,979 hectares, the Wilderness Peak Nature Reserve was established on September 21, 2007. This mountainous ecosystem is vital for protecting endemic species and maintaining the region’s ecological integrity.

Nagar Kovil Nature Reserve

Declared on March 1, 2016, Nagar Kovil Nature Reserve spans 7,882 hectares. This area protects habitats crucial for wildlife and allows traditional activities under regulation to ensure ecological and social sustainability.

Vidataltivu Nature Reserve

Also established on March 1, 2016, Vidataltivu Nature Reserve is one of the largest, covering 29,180 hectares. Its extensive conservation area is crucial for Sri Lanka’s biodiversity, providing refuge for key species and enabling controlled coexistence with human activities.

Jungle Corridors in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka’s jungle corridors are protected areas that connect various national parks, enabling wildlife, especially elephants, to move freely between them. One of the most notable is the Minneriya Corridor, which links Minneriya, Kaudulla, and Wasgamuwa National Parks. This corridor is vital for mitigating human-elephant conflicts and ensuring the movement of animals during dry and rainy seasons, improving their access to water and reducing interactions with agricultural areas.

These corridors facilitate genetic diversity among species by allowing exchanges between populations separated by human activities. Tourists can observe large elephant gatherings in these corridors during the dry season, particularly around the Minneriya Reservoir.

Corridors are essential for conserving biodiversity in Sri Lanka, enabling animals to maintain their traditional migratory routes and escape habitat fragmentation caused by urbanization.

Marine Reserves in Sri Lanka

Marine Reserves in Sri Lanka are protected areas designated to conserve aquatic ecosystems, including coastal zones, coral reefs, seagrass beds, and other vital marine habitats. These reserves play a crucial role in protecting marine biodiversity, providing refuge for endangered species, and allowing the regeneration of marine resources. Beyond their ecological value, Marine Reserves also promote sustainable fishing and ecotourism, ensuring that coastal communities can benefit from these ecosystems without compromising their long-term health.

  • Bar Reef Marine Sanctuary.
  • Grate Sober Island Sanctuary.
  • Hikkaduwa National Park.
  • Kayankerni (Marine Natural Reservation).
  • Kuda Ravana Maha Ravana (Marine Sanctuary).
  • Muthurajawela Sanctuary.
  • Pallemalala Sanctuary.
  • Parititivu Island Sanctuary.
  • Pigeon Island National Park.
  • Rocky Islets Sanctuary.
  • Rumassala Sanctuary.
  • Wedithalathivu Nature Reserve.

Sanctuaries in Sri Lanka

Sanctuaries in Sri Lanka are protected areas where wildlife is legally safeguarded, but human activities, such as farming or natural resource harvesting, may continue in a controlled manner. Unlike national parks or strict nature reserves, sanctuaries allow local communities to coexist with nature, promoting a balance between conservation and sustainable use. These sanctuaries are essential for protecting critical habitats and endangered species while supporting traditional livelihoods.

  • Bar Reef Marine Sanctuary.
  • Kudawa Sanctuary.
  • Grate Sober Island Sanctuary.
  • Hikkaduwa Sanctuary.
  • Kayankerni Sanctuary.
  • Pallemalala Sanctuary.
  • Muthurajawela Sanctuary.
  • Rumassala Sanctuary.
  • Parititivu Island Sanctuary.
  • Rocky Islets Sanctuary.

Other Places of Interest in Sri Lanka

Kalametiya Bird Sanctuary

Kalametiya is one of Sri Lanka’s most important wetland areas. Renowned for its rich bird biodiversity, this sanctuary is a dream destination for birdwatchers. Additionally, Kalametiya features lagoon and swamp landscapes, making it a unique spot for nature photography.

Bar Reef Marine Reserve

Located off Sri Lanka’s northwest coast, the Bar Reef Marine Reserve is a paradise for divers and snorkeling enthusiasts. Its colorful coral reefs and abundant marine life make it one of the best sites to explore the country’s underwater world.

Knuckles Conservation Zone

The Knuckles Conservation Zone is a mountainous region known for its diverse ecosystems and ecological significance. Here, you can hike through dense tropical forests and highland grasslands. It is a highly appreciated destination for trekkers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Mihintale Wildlife Sanctuary

Famous for its historical and religious significance, Mihintale also hosts a wildlife sanctuary. This site is ideal for those wishing to combine cultural exploration with nature, as hiking trails offer breathtaking views and opportunities to observe animals in their natural habitat.

Recommended next parks: National Parks in Asia.

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