Wilderness
01.
Trekking in Udawattakaley
Embark on a captivating 4-hour hike through the ancient forests of Kandy. As you step into this different world, you’ll find yourself ruled by the jungle’s ancient wisdom.
Follow trails underlaid with stone pathways, once charming avenues in colorful green pleasure gardens centuries ago. Along the way, keep your eyes peeled for rare and endemic bird species.
The sanctuary, formerly known as Uda Wasala Watta (meaning “garden above the royal palace” in Sinhalese), hosts a rich variety of flora and fauna. Once a pleasure garden exclusively reserved for Kandyan royalty, it now invites intrepid trekkers to explore its hidden corners. Imagine bathing in the forest’s serene pond, a privilege once forbidden to the public. Designated a forest reserve in 1856, it officially became a sanctuary in 1938.
02.
Peradeniya Botanical Gardens
The origins of the Botanic Gardens trace back to the year 1371, when King Wickramabahu III ascended the throne and held court near the Mahaweli river in Peradeniya.
Over time, King Kirti Sri and King Rajadhi Rajasinghe continued to shape this lush landscape. A temple once stood here, built by King Wimala Dharma, but it met its demise under British control during the Kingdom of Kandy.
In 1821, Alexander Moon laid the groundwork for a botanical garden, initially using it for coffee and cinnamon plants. The Botanical Garden at Peradeniya officially took root in 1843, with plants sourced from Kew Garden, Slave Island, Colombo, and the Kalutara Garden.
Under the stewardship of George Gardner, the Royal Botanic Garden, Peradeniya flourished. His legacy continued through Henry Trimen and John Christopher Willis, creating a haven of natural beauty that beckons visitors to explore its vibrant flora and tranquil pathways.
03.
Turtle hatchery - Down South
The Turtle Hatchery Down South currently houses five turtle species: Olive Ridley, Leatherback, Loggerhead, Hawksbill, and Green Tur he Turtle Hatchery Down South currently houses five turtle species: Olive Ridley, Leatherback, Loggerhead, Hawksbill, and Green Turtles. The hatchery and rescue center boast modern facilities including water tanks for newborn turtles and care for injured adult turtles. An interesting feature is the egg-laying area, where turtles meticulously create distinct sand mounds. These mounds are closely monitored to track the hatching process of the turtle eggs.tles. The hatchery and rescue center boast modern facilities including water tanks for newborn turtles and care for injured adult turtles. An interesting feature is the egg-laying area, where turtles meticulously create distinct sand mounds. These mounds are closely monitored to track the hatching process of the turtle eggs.
04.
Flora and Fauna -Haputale
Haputale is home to a diverse range of plant and animal life, with lush vegetation and a variety of wildlife. The town is surrounded by hills covered in misty forests and tea plantations, and its elevated location gives it a cooler climate. The Haputale pass offers stunning views of the Southern plains of Sri Lanka, and the mountain ridges mark the boundary of the Uva basin. Haputale was recognized by CNN in 2010 as one of Asia’s hidden gems.
05.
Whale Watching and Dolphins-Mirissa
Mirissa is renowned for its thrilling opportunities to observe whales and dolphins in their natural habitat. The area is particularly known for sightings of majestic blue whales, the largest animals on the planet. Mirissa is considered the prime location for whale and dolphin watching tours in Sri Lanka, with the best season for these activities being from November to April.
06.
Yala National Park – Down South
Yala National Park, located in the southern region, is known for its high population of leopards, which are the dominant predators in the area. The park is also home to a large number of elephants, and deer can be seen cautiously moving alongside them. Yala boasts the highest density of leopards in the world, making it a unique and captivating destination for wildlife enthusiasts.
05.
Minneriya National Park - Habarana
Established as a national park in 1997, Minneriya was originally a wildlife sanctuary dating back to 1938. Its protected status aims to safeguard the Minneriya tank’s catchment and the surrounding wildlife. The tank, built by King Mahasen in the third century AD, holds historical significance. During the dry season, the park serves as a feeding ground for elephants from the forests of Matale, Polonnaruwa, and Trincomalee districts. Along with Kaudulla and Girithale, Minneriya is recognized as one of Sri Lanka’s 70 Important Bird Areas (IBAs). The park is located 182 kilometers (113 miles) from Colombo.
