In central Sri Lanka, farmers face a difficult problem every spring. Wild elephants often walk onto farms and crush young crops. Farmers try to scare the large animals away using firecrackers and burning torches. These dangerous encounters have led to hundreds of deaths for both humans and elephants in recent years.
Sri Lanka is home to about 7,400 wild elephants, and most of them roam freely across the island. However, as more natural habitats are converted into farmland for millions of people, conflicts over land have increased. Despite these challenges, local people hold deep respect and reverence for the elephants.
To see how these majestic animals live safely, visitors can travel to Hurulu Eco Park in the Habarana district. Inside the protected boundaries of the sanctuary, elephants graze and wander without danger. Driving along the park's dirt roads offers travelers a rare opportunity to admire Sri Lanka's revered wildlife in a peaceful setting.