Peak Wilderness Sanctuary, Protected natural reserve in Central Highlands, Sri Lanka
Peak Wilderness Sanctuary is a large protected area in the Central Highlands of Sri Lanka containing montane forests, grasslands, and wetland areas. The landscape spans multiple provinces and is home to numerous streams and waterfalls.
The area received protected status in 1940 and was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2010 as part of Sri Lanka's Central Highlands. This recognition reflected the region's long-term importance for nature conservation.
Three pilgrimage routes cross through the sanctuary on the way to Adam's Peak, connecting different regions of the island. These paths remain active today and show how communities have remained linked across the landscape for generations.
Visitors need to obtain permission from the Sri Lanka Wildlife Conservation Department before entering, as the area follows strict preservation guidelines. It is important to check requirements in advance and respect the rules while in the sanctuary.
The sanctuary is the source of several major rivers including the Kelani, Kalu, and Walave, which flow through the island's interior. These rivers feed the waterfalls and water systems that shape the landscape.
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