The World's First wiled Life Sanctuary
For more information, visit the Sri Lanka site.
In the 3rd century BC, King Devanampiyatissa established the world's first fauna and flora sanctuary at Mihintale. Well over 2000 years later it is still here for everyone to enjoy.
The Sinharaja rain-forest is an example of one of the few such remaining forest in Asia. It is also a primeval sanctuary for over 170 varieties of exotic orchid.
Horton Plains is a special attraction. This remote plateau is the island's last remaining montane forest-the home of some fauna and flora species found nowhere else in the world. Kumana and Wirawila are just two of Sri Lanka's magnificent bird sanctuaries. Stilts, Barbets, Flycatchers, Ibis, Pelicans, Parrots, Peacocks, Parakeets, Devil Birds, Hawks, Jungle Fowl and Stork abound in these sanctuaries.
But, to many, the national parks like Yala, Wilpattu and Inginiyagala hold the greatest appeal. From the safety of a park bungalow or a covered jeep, visitors can watch Leopard, Loris, Elephant, Monkey, Deer, Boar and Bear roam free in these extensive reserves.