Jathika Namal Uyana, Forest reserve and archaeological site in Anuradhapura District, Sri Lanka
Jathika Namal Uyana is a forest reserve in Anuradhapura District with an extensive collection of ironwood trees, medicinal plants, and a distinctive pink quartz mountain. The grounds contain scattered ancient ruins and offer paths through woodland areas with different types of vegetation.
The area developed as a forest reserve with archaeological significance, containing remains of monasteries from the time of King Devanampiya Tissa. These remains show the long connection between religious communities and this woodland area.
Monks have long used this forest as a place for meditation and spiritual practice, and their presence remains woven into the landscape today. The relationship between these religious communities and the natural surroundings continues to shape how the forest is cared for.
Access is through Galkiriyagama, with travel from Colombo via Dambulla taking about three and a half hours. Visitors should bring sturdy shoes and water, as forest paths are uneven and offer little shade.
The forest area holds Sri Lanka's largest plant fossil deposits, showing how the vegetation has changed over millions of years. These fossils make it an important place for understanding the natural history of the island.
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