Kottawa Forest Guide: Exploring Galle's Enchanting Rainforest Sanctuary

Just a short drive from Galle lies Kottawa Forest, a pristine lowland rainforest that offers one of Sri Lanka's most accessible jungle experiences. This 50-acre conservation forest and arboretum bursts with endemic flora and fauna, featuring:

• 200+ native plant species
• Canopy walks through towering trees
• Serene forest trails perfect for nature lovers

Why Visit Kottawa Forest?

• Easiest rainforest access from Galle (just 30 minutes)
• Excellent birdwatching (including endemic species)
• Educational value with labeled medicinal plants
• Cool retreat from coastal heat

Visitor Essentials

Getting There

• Location: Kottawa, Udugama (Google Maps: "Kottawa Forest Conservation Area")
• From Galle: 22km via Baddegama Road (~45 min by tuk-tuk)
• Hours: 8:30AM-4:30PM daily

Entry Process

1. Register at the Forest Department office on-site
2. Entry Fee: ~$5 (Foreigners) / LKR 100 (Locals)
3. Optional Guide: Knowledgeable rangers available (~$10)

What to Experience

1. Rainforest Trails

• Main Loop Trail (1.5km): Easy walk past giant ferns and vines
• Canopy Viewpoints: Spot birds and monkeys in the treetops
• Medicinal Plant Garden: Discover traditional Ayurvedic remedies

2. Wildlife Spotting

• Endemic Birds: Sri Lanka Grey Hornbill, Layard's Parakeet
• Mammals: Purple-faced Langurs, Giant Squirrels
• Butterflies: 50+ species including rare Blue Mormons

3. Unique Features

• Ancient "Doona" Trees (300+ years old)
• Natural Streams with freshwater crabs
• Research Plots for botany students

Preparation Tips

• Wear: Quick-dry clothes, leech socks (available for rent)
• Bring: Water, binoculars, camera with zoom lens
• Apply: Salt around ankles to deter leeches
• Avoid: Perfumes (attracts insects)

Nearby Attractions

• Kottawa Arboretum (adjacent - 100+ timber species)
• Anagimala Ella (40min - scenic waterfall)
• Brief Garden (1hr - Bevis Bawa's tropical paradise)

Conservation Note

This protected forest:

• Preserves critically endangered dipterocarp trees
• Runs reforestation programs
• Bans plastic - please pack out all trash

Book an Eco-Tour

Want to explore safely with experts? Sri Lanka Tour Help offers:

• Private guided forest walks
• Birdwatching specialist tours
• Customized nature itineraries

Contact us for a jungle adventure!