Sri Pada off-season entry restricted to two routes; Pass made mandatory

Colombo, July 3 (Daily Mirror) - The Wildlife Conservation Department has announced that during the off-season, access to Sri Pada is strictly permitted only through two designated routes, with all visitors required to obtain an official pass.

Accordingly, pilgrims and tourists may travel to Sri Pada only via the Sri Pada–Nallathanniya road or the Sri Pada–Palabaddala road. Visitors using these routes must secure a pass from either the Palabaddala Wildlife Office or the Nallathanniya Wildlife Office prior to entry.

Authorities highlighted that entering or remaining within the area without a valid permit, as stipulated under the Wildlife and Flora Protection Ordinance, constitutes a punishable offence.

At the same time, several traditional access routes—including the Maliboda–Sri Pada road, Erathna–Sri Pada road, Mukkuwatta–Sri Pada road, and Sandagalatenna–Sri Pada road—have been closed during the off-season. Entry to the Sri Pada site through these routes, or remaining within the area after entry, is strictly prohibited and subject to legal action.

The Department further said that field officers are continuously monitoring both open and closed access routes to ensure compliance and protect the sensitive environment of the site.

Visitors have also been urged to avoid bringing non-biodegradable materials, including polythene and plastic water bottles, and to refrain from disposing of waste within the area. The Department stressed the importance of safeguarding the fragile ecological system surrounding Sri Pada during the off-season period.