Hakgala Strict Nature Reserve

Hakgala Strict Nature Reserve is a protected area in Sri Lanka's Central Highlands featuring montane forests and grasslands across different elevations. The terrain includes cloud forests and open spaces that support specialized plant and animal communities adapted to mountain conditions.

Sri Lanka established this protected area in 1938 to safeguard the isolated mountain forests and their unique species. The designation recognized the ecological importance of these elevations and their distinct plant and animal life.

The mountain peaks take their names from Sinhala words that describe the surrounding landscape and shape how locals think of this place. Visitors can recognize these named features as they move through the terrain.

Visiting is easier during drier months, as the area receives significant rainfall, especially from May to August. Bring suitable clothing for mountain terrain and plan for steep paths and varying elevations.

The area is home to all five bird species found only in this region, plus rare mammals that exist nowhere else. This wildlife makes it a special ecosystem with life forms that developed in isolation.