20/08/2026
Udakiruwa Rainforest: A Magical Forest in Sri Lanka - Another hidden gem in Sri Lanka
Where is it?
The Udakiruwa rainforest is hidden in a valley in Sri Lanka's Uva Province, near the village of Udakiruwa.
It is surrounded by beautiful hills, and the Kiri Oya (Milk River) flows through it.
What makes it special?
The forest has very tall trees, including Hora trees, which can grow over 40 meters tall!
There are also some giant Doona (Shorea) trees, and different trees like Jack-fruit grow higher up in the valley where it is drier.
The rainforest is full of amazing plants, like orchids, ferns, and rare plants that don't grow anywhere else.
What animals live there?
There are wild animals like sambar deer, wild boar, and fishing cats.
Birds like Sri Lanka Grey Hornbill, Sri Lanka Myna, Sri Lanka Yellow Fronted Barbat, Greater Racket-Tailed Drongo etc.. also live in the trees.
Why is it important?
This forest is one of the last remaining natural rainforests in Sri Lanka, and it’s a very important place for the environment.
The trees help stop soil erosion, keep water clean, and trap carbon to fight global warming.
The forest is also home to many plants and animals that are hard to find anywhere else.
What's threatening it?
Some of the forest is being cut down to make room for rubber tree plantations and grasslands for cattle grazing. This harms the environment.
There are also plans to build roads that could open up the valley to even more destruction.
Why do we need to protect it?
If we lose this forest, we could lose water sources, wildlife, and important plants that help people.
The Udakiruwa forest is also a big carbon sink, which helps cool the Earth.
We need to protect it, so future generations can enjoy it and we can keep the Earth healthy!
This magical forest is important for nature, animals, and people. We need to help protect it! 🌳🐘🌍
Paradise Island Safari is the first tour operator to offer a guided hike to this rain forest in Sri Lanka...
Special thanks go to Sajith Galabada for offering this majestic opportunity.
www.paradiseislandsafari.com
