National parks & wildlife
Muthurajawela Wetland
Negombo, Gampaha District
A coastal wetland ecosystem known for mangroves, birds and boat-based nature experiences.
Horagolla National Park
Gampaha, Gampaha District
Small protected lowland forest park.
- Best time to visit
- December – April
- Opening hours
- Early morning
- Entry fee
- Free of additional service charge; confirm applicable ticket rules
Highlights
- Wildlife watching and natural habitats
Horagolla National Park is a small but ecologically important nature reserve located near Nittambuwa in the Gampaha District of Sri Lanka. It is recognised as the smallest national park in Sri Lanka and the only national park in the Western Province. Covering approximately 13.36 hectares, the park protects a valuable low-country evergreen forest ecosystem.
The park gets its name from the abundance of Hora trees (Dipterocarpus zeylanicus) found throughout the forest. It was initially declared a wildlife sanctuary in 1973 and was upgraded to national park status in 2004.
Horagolla National Park is home to a variety of wildlife, including fishing cats, Sri Lankan spotted chevrotains, golden jackals and grizzled giant squirrels. It also supports more than 60 bird species, making it an interesting destination for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.
Visitors can enjoy peaceful forest walks, observe birds and butterflies, explore natural vegetation and experience the beauty of Sri Lanka's low-country rainforest. The park is also an excellent destination for educational visits, nature photography and environmental awareness activities.
Photos
How to get there
Travel to Gampaha using local roads or public transport; confirm the final approach and access point on the map before departure.
Tips for visitors
Follow ranger rules; do not feed, approach or disturb wildlife.
Frequently asked questions
What is Horagolla National Park famous for?
Horagolla National Park is famous for its low-country evergreen forest, Hora trees, rich birdlife, butterflies and diverse wildlife.
What animals can visitors see at Horagolla National Park?
Visitors may observe fishing cats, Sri Lankan spotted chevrotains, golden jackals, grizzled giant squirrels, birds, butterflies and reptiles.
When was Horagolla National Park established?
The area was declared a wildlife sanctuary in 1973 and officially upgraded to national park status in 2004.
Can visitors enjoy birdwatching at Horagolla National Park?
Yes. The park is an excellent location for birdwatching, with more than 60 recorded bird species, including parakeets, barbets and Sri Lanka grey hornbills.
Is Horagolla National Park suitable for family visits?
Yes. Families can enjoy nature walks, birdwatching and wildlife observation. Visitors should supervise children and remain on designated walking paths.
More places nearby
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Buddhist temples
Maligatenna Raja Maha Viharaya
Gampaha, Gampaha District
Historic Buddhist cave-temple complex with forest paths and stone steps.
Buddhist temples
Warana Raja Maha Viharaya
Gampaha, Gampaha District
Ancient cave temple known for rock shelters and Buddhist heritage.
Parks & gardens
Buddhist temples
Kelaniya Raja Maha Viharaya
Kelaniya, Gampaha District
An important Buddhist temple complex known for its religious history, murals and annual Duruthu Perahera.
Waterfalls & rivers