The beautiful Hiyare lowland rainforest and natural reservoir is one of Galle's natural treasures. The reservoir once supplied fresh water to the residents of Galle town and the Mahadola stream originates here.

The word Hiyare originates from an expression which means a hundred streams. Over thirty species of freshwater fish have been recorded in the rainforest streams of which several are endemic.

The site is now managed by the Wildlife Conservation Society of Galle who run an education, conservation and research centre. It is also a designated rehabilitation centre for injured and distressed wildlife. You can currently see a resident family of Hog deer and other animals being nursed back to health before being reintroduced to the wild.

The forest canopy includes 9 important endemic species such as Hora, Bu-hora, Dorana, Kekuna and Beraliya.

As well as the animals in the rehabilitation and research centre, 5 endemic bird species, 6 endemic freshwater fish species and 2 endemic amphibian species have been recorded at Hiyare.

Annual rainfall is between 2,160-3,500mm annually.This is highest during the south western monsoon from May to August. Relative humidity is about 70% and the mean temperature is around 28°C.

Tour prices are all-inclusive and cover:

• Hotel pick up and drop from Galle and Unawatuna
• Experienced English speaking guide
• Park entry and boat ride
• Refreshments

Get 10% discount when you book online!

We operate a tiered pricing structure so we can pass on savings to you where possible - the more people that come on the trip the lower the cost is per person.

Pickups from other places and individual tour prices available on request.

» Book now

» Discover the forest
» Prices
» Map
» Booking

« Back to rainforest tours

Boat ride

A brahminy kite in the
rehabilitation centre

Hiyare Reservoir