Introduction: Kanneliya Rain Forest, also known as KDN, is one of the most prominent rainforests in Sri Lanka. It is situated in the Galle district and is a part of the UNESCO-declared Sinharaja Forest Reserve. Kanneliya Rain Forest is home to a variety of plant and animal species and is an excellent destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
History & Culture: The Kanneliya Rain Forest is steeped in history and is believed to have existed since prehistoric times. The indigenous Vedda people have been living in the forest for centuries and have a deep connection with the land. They have traditionally relied on the forest for their livelihoods and have developed a unique culture that is closely tied to nature.
Flora & Fauna: The Kanneliya Rain Forest is home to an impressive variety of plant and animal species. The forest is densely populated with trees, including endemic species such as Dipterocarpus zeylanicus, Mesua ferrea, and Artocarpus nobilis. The forest also boasts an abundance of animal life, including mammals such as the Sri Lankan elephant, Sri Lankan sambar deer, and barking deer. The forest is also home to a variety of bird species, including the Sri Lankan blue magpie, Sri Lanka junglefowl, and red-faced malkoha.
Main Tourist Attractions: The Kanneliya Rain Forest is a popular destination for tourists who are interested in nature and adventure. The forest offers a variety of hiking trails, which provide visitors with an opportunity to explore the lush greenery and wildlife of the forest. The Kanneliya-Dediyagala-Nakiyadeniya (KDN) trail, which is the longest trail in the forest, takes hikers through a diverse range of ecosystems, including dense rainforest, rocky outcrops, and gushing waterfalls.
The Kanneliya Rain Forest also boasts several natural attractions, including the Kanneliya Ella waterfall and the Kottawa Arboretum. The Kanneliya Ella waterfall is a beautiful cascade of water that flows down a rocky slope, while the Kottawa Arboretum is a collection of over 80 tree species that is used for research and education.
Activities: The Kanneliya Rain Forest offers a range of activities for visitors, including hiking, birdwatching, and camping. The forest has several campsites, which are equipped with basic facilities such as toilets and showers. The forest also offers guided tours, which provide visitors with an opportunity to learn about the flora and fauna of the forest.
Weather: The weather in the Kanneliya Rain Forest is typically warm and humid, with temperatures ranging between 25°C to 30°C. The monsoon season runs from May to September, and visitors are advised to avoid visiting during this time as the trails can become slippery and dangerous.
Food: There are no restaurants or food vendors within the Kanneliya Rain Forest, so visitors are advised to bring their own food and drinks. The forest has several campsites that are equipped with basic cooking facilities, and visitors can also cook over an open fire.
Accommodation: There are several accommodation options near the Kanneliya Rain Forest, including guesthouses, hotels, and eco-lodges. The nearby city of Galle is home to several budget-friendly guesthouses and hotels, while the forest itself has several campsites that offer basic facilities.
How to reach:
Kanneliya Rain Forest can be reached by both road and train.
By Road: The nearest town to Kanneliya Rain Forest is Galle, which is about 35 km away. From Galle, take the A17 road towards Baddegama and then turn onto the B429 towards Hiniduma. The entrance to the rainforest is located about 3 km from Hiniduma.
The nearest railway station to Kanneliya Rain Forest is Galle railway station. From there, you can take a bus or a taxi to the rainforest. The train journey from Colombo to Galle takes around 2.5 hours.
It is recommended to hire a local guide or join a guided tour to explore the rainforest, as the trails can be challenging and the terrain can be difficult to navigate.
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