About
Forest Edge
at Kanneliya Forest Reserve
Kanneliya Forest Reserve, the largest forest of the Kanneliya – Dediyagala – Nakiyadeniya (KDN) forest complex is located 35 km northwest of the city of Galle (Udugama – Hiniduma Road in Galle). Being home to diverse endemic flora and fauna in the island, Kanneliya is the second largest tropical rainforest in Sri Lanka. Famed for its spectacular sceneries, this forest reserve is one of the floristically exquisite areas in South Asia. The biodiversity of this UNESCO biosphere reserve is even richer than the Sinharaja World Heritage Rainforest.
Geographical Features
Surrounded by series of mountain ranges and embraced by beautiful valleys with sparkling water running downhill, the forest complex is the catchment area for number of rivers including (Gin and Nilwala rivers) and streams that nourish the entire forest and the proximal areas. The elevation ranges from 60 m to 425 m above sea level. The forest receives a substantial rainfall of 3,750mm; with a mean annual temperature of 27.0°C, which can vary approximately 4°C to 5°C.
Tourist Attractions
The lush greenery with magnificent landscapes, the cascades of water which create splendid patterns, the amazing spectacle of wildlife who lives under the thick canopy are remarkably alluring. Among the two key trails in Kanneliya, “Kabbale Kanda” is the longest mountain trail. It is a 5.5 km hike where you can reach to a summit point with an amazing panoramic view. Narangas Ella trail, which goes deep inside the forest crossing rope bridges is the pathway to a charming cascade called “Narangas Ella” and the bat cave. A giant Nevada tree that reaches high up into the sky is located at a short detour on the same trial. No one can miss the spectacular sceneries created by “Anagimale falls” which is located 2km away from the main entrance. The ancient twisted creeper which is considered as one of the wonders of Kanneliya is also situated at the vicinity of the “Anagimale falls”.