
Hiyare Reservoir and Rainforest
A historically significant reservoir and lush rainforest near Galle, offering a tranquil escape with rich biodiversity.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Calm vibe, perfect for unwinding

Hiyare Reservoir and Rainforest
Best Time
Calm vibe, perfect for unwinding

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historically significant reservoir and lush rainforest near Galle, offering a tranquil escape with rich biodiversity.
"Nice and calm. Lot of Parking, can travel via a vehicle. Bit damaged road, but overall okay."

🚗 Parking Available
Plenty of parking space is available, making it easy to access by vehicle. :car:
🎒 Bring Your Own Food
No food outlets on-site. Pack snacks and drinks for your visit. :sandwich:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Hiyare Reservoir Viewing Deck
Main viewing area
Soak in the serene landscape and peaceful atmosphere from the dedicated viewing deck.

Hiyare Rainforest Biodiversity
Surrounding rainforest
Discover a rich ecosystem with over 21 amphibian species, many endemic to Sri Lanka.

Historical Irrigation System
Reservoir structure
Appreciate the engineering marvel built in 1911 to supply water to Galle.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Best Time to Visit for Serenity
Road Conditions & Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Available
Plenty of parking space is available, making it easy to access by vehicle. :car:
🎒 Bring Your Own Food
No food outlets on-site. Pack snacks and drinks for your visit. :sandwich:
⚠️ Be Cautious on Bridge
The old bridge can be a bit precarious; exercise caution when crossing. :warning:
🚫 No Swimming Allowed
The reservoir is deep and cone-shaped; swimming is unsafe. :no_swimming:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Available
Plenty of parking space is available, making it easy to access by vehicle. :car:
🎒 Bring Your Own Food
No food outlets on-site. Pack snacks and drinks for your visit. :sandwich:
⚠️ Be Cautious on Bridge
The old bridge can be a bit precarious; exercise caution when crossing. :warning:
🚫 No Swimming Allowed
The reservoir is deep and cone-shaped; swimming is unsafe. :no_swimming:
🌿 Nature Lover's Paradise
Ideal for birdwatching and spotting diverse creatures. :bird:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Hiyare Reservoir is praised for its serene and calm atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for relaxation and nature appreciation. Visitors highlight the scenic beauty and the convenience of available parking. However, the lack of on-site food facilities and the condition of the access road are noted drawbacks.
"Hiyare Reservoir, located about 15 km from Galle, is a historically and environmentally valuable creation. Initiated in 1911 under the guidance of D. G. Wimalasurendra, the reservoir was built using advanced irrigation techniques to supply water to the Galle area. It is about 40 feet deep and shaped like a narrow circle, which makes bathing or swimming unsafe. A viewing deck allows visitors to enjoy the peaceful surroundings. The reservoir is also surrounded by the Hiyare Rainforest, which shelters more than 21 amphibian species, including many endemic to Sri Lanka. In 2011, an animal clinic was established nearby, adding further importance to this eco-friendly paradise.
Parking ✅
Calm vibe ✅"
Harshan pramodya
"Nice and calm. Lot of Parking, can travel via a vehicle. Bit damaged road, but overall okay. No food outlets inside. Bring your own food.
Evening times are the best. Good for a gathering."
Mohamed Insan
"Absolute scenic landscape within just few kilometres from the Galle city. Parking available near the tank. Great place for hangouts and evening parties. Great diversity of birds & creatures. Must visit if you are a nature lover. Careful if you are visiting the bridge as it's quite old."
Osanda Vidanapathirana
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Hiyare Reservoir is located approximately 15 km from Galle city. You can reach it by car or tuk-tuk. While the road is generally accessible, some sections can be a bit damaged, so drive carefully. Parking is available on-site.
While accessible by vehicle, public transport options might be limited. It's recommended to hire a tuk-tuk from Galle or use a private vehicle for a more convenient journey.
The road leading to Hiyare Reservoir is described as 'bit damaged' by visitors, but still manageable for vehicles. It's advisable to drive cautiously, especially if you're not familiar with the route.
Yes, you can drive directly to Hiyare Reservoir. There is ample parking available near the tank, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car.
Hiyare Reservoir is conveniently located just about 15 km from Galle city, making it an accessible nature escape.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Information regarding specific entrance fees is not widely available, but the general consensus is that it's a free-access natural area. It's always a good idea to check locally for any minor charges.
Hiyare Reservoir is generally accessible throughout the day, with evenings being particularly recommended for their calm atmosphere. There are no official closing times mentioned.
No, booking tickets in advance is not necessary for Hiyare Reservoir as it's a natural attraction. You can visit spontaneously.
The primary restriction is that swimming or bathing in the reservoir is not allowed due to its depth and cone-shaped design. Otherwise, it's open for visitors to enjoy the scenery.
While not officially stated, visiting during the evening is recommended for its calm ambiance. Extended night visits might not be advisable due to lack of lighting and facilities.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy the scenic landscape from the viewing deck, explore the surrounding Hiyare Rainforest known for its amphibian diversity, and appreciate the historical irrigation system. It's a great spot for a peaceful hangout or a nature walk.
No, swimming or bathing in Hiyare Reservoir is strictly not allowed. The reservoir is designed with a cone shape, making it very deep and unsafe for water activities.
The surrounding Hiyare Rainforest is home to a rich diversity of wildlife, including over 21 amphibian species, many of which are endemic to Sri Lanka. Birdwatching is also a popular activity here.
Based on visitor feedback, there are no food outlets or specific facilities like restrooms mentioned. It's advisable to come prepared with all your necessities.
Absolutely! The scenic landscape, the reservoir itself, and the lush rainforest offer numerous picturesque opportunities for photography. The calm atmosphere enhances the photographic experience.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
No, there are no food outlets or restaurants located within Hiyare Reservoir. Visitors are advised to bring their own food and drinks for their outing.
Yes, Hiyare Reservoir is a great spot for a picnic. Since there are no food vendors, packing your own picnic is the way to go. Enjoy the calm vibe while you dine.
For dining options, you would need to travel back towards Galle city, which offers a variety of restaurants and local eateries. Hiyare itself is a nature-focused destination without commercial food services.
Yes, it is perfectly fine and recommended to bring your own food and drinks to Hiyare Reservoir, as there are no facilities available on-site.
After your visit, head back towards Galle city to explore local restaurants. You can find a range of Sri Lankan cuisine and other options there.
📸 📸 Photography
The viewing deck offers panoramic shots of the reservoir and its surroundings. The old bridge, though requiring caution, can also provide interesting angles. The lush rainforest offers opportunities for macro and nature photography.
Late afternoons and evenings are ideal for photography due to the soft, golden light and the tranquil atmosphere. Sunrise can also offer beautiful, serene shots if you're an early riser.
There are no specific regulations mentioned regarding drone usage. However, it's always best to be mindful of local rules and respect the natural environment and other visitors.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm equivalent) is great for landscapes and general shots. If you're interested in wildlife, a telephoto lens would be beneficial. A wide-angle lens can capture the expanse of the reservoir.
Yes, the Hiyare Rainforest is rich in biodiversity, offering excellent opportunities to photograph various species, especially amphibians and birds. Remember to maintain a respectful distance and avoid disturbing the wildlife.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🌿 Nature Enthusiasts & Birdwatchers
📸 Photographers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Historical Significance of Hiyare Reservoir
This historical context adds a layer of appreciation for visitors. It's a reminder of the ingenuity and foresight that shaped the landscape. While the reservoir's depth makes it unsuitable for recreational swimming, its historical value and the engineering prowess it represents are significant aspects to consider during a visit. The reservoir stands as a functional piece of history, still serving its purpose decades later.
Hiyare Rainforest: A Biodiversity Hotspot
Beyond amphibians, the rainforest is a haven for various other flora and fauna, contributing to the overall biodiversity of the region. Visitors can experience the calm vibe of this natural sanctuary, often described as peaceful and serene. The presence of an animal clinic established nearby in 2011 further underscores the commitment to preserving this eco-friendly paradise and its inhabitants. Exploring the rainforest, even just the fringes accessible from the reservoir area, offers a glimpse into a vibrant and unique ecosystem.
Visitor Experience and Practicalities
While the journey is generally manageable, some travelers note that the road leading to the reservoir can be 'bit damaged.' This is something to be aware of, especially when driving. The reservoir itself is deep and has a cone-shaped slope, making it unsafe for swimming. The old bridge near the reservoir is also mentioned as needing caution. Despite these minor points, the overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, highlighting the scenic landscape and the tranquil atmosphere as major draws.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit