Smack in the middle of Sri Lanka’s cultural triangle, Habarana is fast becoming one of the island’s most sought-after travel destinations. With its proximity to iconic sites like Sigiriya, the Minneriya National Park, and Dambulla, this quiet town is emerging as a hub for conscious, sustainable tourism.
The Sunday Morning Brunch decided to dive into Habarana’s growing reputation, speaking to Travel Squad, an ethical travel company dedicated to redefining what it means to explore responsibly.
“Travel Squad is all around Sri Lanka, but our base is right here in Habarana,” Travel Squad Marketing Manager Hamdaan Hassan shared. “I’ve been in tourism from a very young age; my father, Hassan Haniffa, was in the very first batch of national tour guides. Seeing how the industry has changed over time, we wanted to create something different, something that educates and uplifts.”
Coming into Travel Squad as a second-generation tourism professional, Hamdaan drives its commitment to quality, transparency, and eco-consciousness in several ways, from running educational vlogs to offering open travel advice in a bid to bring meaningful change to a saturated industry, while also highlighting the versatility of Habarana as destination.
Hamdaan pointed out that Habarana appealed to both foreign and local travellers. “Anyone going to the ancient cities ends up passing through Habarana. And many come here specifically. Those going to Trincomalee definitely stop here.”
While Habarana may often be viewed as a mere transit point between major tourist sites like Polonnaruwa, Trincomalee, Anuradhapura, Sigiriya, and Dambulla, it is, in fact, a destination rich in ecological and historical treasures.
The draw of Habarana
“Habarana is a main point in Sri Lankan tourism; this junction is a must to cross whether you are going to Polonnaruwa, Trincomalee, Anuradhapura, Sigiriya, or Dambulla,” explained Hamdaan. But to him and many others who know the land well, Habarana is far more than just a junction; it’s a place worth stopping for.
Surrounded by several major National Parks including Kaudulla, Minneriya, and Hurulu Eco Park, Habarana is one of the best locations in Sri Lanka to witness elephants in the wild. “If you want to watch elephants, this is the place to go,” Hamdaan noted.
Beyond wildlife, Habarana is steeped in a lesser-known yet significant history. “The history here is also incredible,” he shared. “All of the kings who ruled Sri Lanka have come here to rule. There are still ruins and vestiges in the forest. Many who have done excavations have discovered this and many of the locals know the true value of Habarana.”
Yet, with rising footfall comes rising concern. “Passersby and travellers often leave food and junk behind,” Hamdaan said. “Animals get used to these human foods and start coming into villages and homes. The more humans interact with them, the more the conflict intensifies due to this endless littering.”
Brunch also spoke to Habarana local and conservationist Manoj Fonseka, who offered insight into why Habarana was so uniquely positioned within Sri Lanka’s travel ecosystem. “Habarana is perfect for tourism,” he shared. “It’s the only place in the world where, at any time of the year – during any season – you can go elephant watching.” According to him, the area also boasts the highest concentration of elephants in South Asia.
Manoj emphasised Habarana’s role as a central hub. “Similar to a city like Minuwangoda, it’s the most central, hub-like area,” he explained. “People can engage with the spot so conveniently. And now, we have two new national parks; it’s the only area with the most direct access to four safari parks.”
Balancing tourism with protection
From majestic elephants to elusive leopards and sloth bears, Habarana is home to rich biodiversity. But as tourism grows, so do the risks to these animals. It is close to Minneriya, which is famously home to the annual Elephant Gathering, which is taking place as we speak.
“There are many animals here – leopards, bears, and elephants – and with that comes a clear responsibility to stop harming these animals,” Hamdaan said. “There are hunters, people who poach. One of the main concerns is the railroad that crosses through Habarana city. The best way to protect our elephants is by making arrangements for the railroad, maybe by setting up a path for elephants to go underneath with a sky bridge.”
Hamdaan also stressed the economic and ethical costs of inaction. “Elephants bring in so much revenue. We are harming these animals not just from a tourism perspective but from a human perspective as well. There’s no systematic plan, no proper elephant fences. We have seen many elephants collapse.”
Brunch asked Hamdaan about the safest and most ethical ways to observe elephants in Habarana. “The best way to watch elephants is on a safari,” he said. “You can get very close to them in a jeep near the river or the forests. We do jungle treks along the riverbed; we can spot elephants across the lake.
“Elephants come near after the paddy harvest. We prepare safe experiences and always keep a respectful distance. Usually, it’s one night in a hotel and a safari, but we offer in-depth, immersive trekking experiences based on what travellers are looking for.”
Speaking on the safety of wildlife, Hamdaan added that jeep safari operators needed better training: “Jeeps must stay on designated tracks. Most safari drivers are villagers. Their capacity must be built and they need to be empowered and educated to be environmentally conscious.”
Supporting local culture and community
Habarana Tourist Hotels Association Secretary P.T. Thushara Priyalal emphasised the importance of tourism for the community.
“Habarana is so popular because of the birds and animals – the wildlife,” he said. “There’s also Ayurvedic treatment available here. The natural environment is ideal.” He explained how tourism supported even those not directly involved. “During the dry season, paddy farmers can’t sow their fields, so they join us.”
He pointed to Hiriwadunna Lake as a hub for seasonal work. “Across that lake is the city area, where most of the paddy farmers go to hustle as guides. They earn about Rs. 15,000 per day because they know the area.”
“At least 75% of tourists who come to Sri Lanka likely pass through Habarana, especially first-timers,” Priyalal added. “They go on safaris, visit Sigiriya and Polonnaruwa, and try Ayurvedic treatments. As locals, we benefit from this.”
Habarana Jeep Safari Mother Association Vice President Ananda Perera shared why Habarana stood out: “Yes, Habarana is most popular for elephants, but mostly, it’s our culture. A lot of our traditional heritage remains.”
Even as it grows, Habarana has retained its soul. “During the season, there is more foot traffic here than at the airport near Hiriwadunna village,” he said. “Village life is intact. Tourists love it. Some even enjoy going on a bullock cart, rafting across the lake, and visiting a clay hut to pick vegetables and eat meals cooked on a hearth with locals,” he added. “That’s what makes it unique.”
Hamdaan concluded with a powerful message: “The way people think in Sri Lanka has to change – their thought process. Especially now, with the situation in the country, travel can be a reprieve. The more you travel, the more you love and care for the environment. We need to promote valuable and responsible tourism, showing the world how to be a responsible traveller.”