Kanneliya-Dediyagala-Nakiyadeniya

Kanneliya-Dediyagala-Nakiyadeniya is a large forest complex in southern Sri Lanka featuring mountains, valleys, and varying elevations across its terrain. The landscape consists of densely vegetated hills and more open areas, with paths and trails cutting through the woodlands for visitors to explore.

The reserve received UNESCO recognition in 2004 after logging operations halted in 1988 to protect the forests. This designation marked a shift toward formal conservation and protection of the area.

Local communities have developed deep knowledge about forest plants and their uses, passing these skills down through families for generations. This practical relationship with the woods shapes how people in the area understand and interact with their surroundings daily.

Several marked hiking trails begin from the information center in Udugama and offer different lengths and difficulty levels for various visitors. It is advisable to wear comfortable shoes and prepare for changing weather, as the forests are wet and green throughout the year.

The reserve contains tree species found nowhere else in nature, alongside many of the rarest bird species found on the island. This combination of exclusive plant and animal life often surprises visitors who come expecting a typical forest experience.