Home of Sri Lanka’s Indigenous Heritage
Nestled in the foothills of the Central Province, Dambana is the ancestral homeland of Sri Lanka’s Indigenous community—the Vedda people. This secluded village in the Badulla District is one of the last remaining settlements where Indigenous knowledge, traditions, and practices continue to thrive, offering a rare glimpse into a way of life that is both ancient and deeply respectful of nature
The Vedda community in Dambana lives in close connection with the environment. Their lifestyle is shaped by generations of knowledge passed down through oral traditions. They engage in small-scale shifting agriculture, foraging, forest-friendly hunting, and seasonal gathering of wild foods. Their food system, rooted in harmony with the forest ecosystem, offers invaluable insights into sustainable living
A visit to Dambana provides a powerful opportunity to witness how Indigenous communities have protected biodiversity, preserved seed varieties, and maintained food and health systems without the use of industrial inputs. Their diets are based on locally sourced tubers, forest honey, yams, fruits, and traditional grains—reflecting a diet rich in diversity and nutrition.
Visitors will get to :
- Engage in discussions with community elders and youth
- Learn about traditional knowledge and ecological practices.
- Understand the challenges they face in securing land rights, forest access, and cultural autonomy in the face of modern development and legal frameworks.
- Witness daily life and food preparation using age-old techniques.
Trip Details
- DATE : 12th of September 2025
- STARTING TIME : 7.00 AM
- DISTANCE FROM NICD: 90km
- TRAVELLING TIME: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Maximum number of participants is 100
- Breakfast will be provided at NICD or hotel
- Lunch will be provided on the site, traditional food and fruits will be provided by the indigenous people.
What to bring
- Weather in Dambana is hot and humid, so wear comfortable clothes.
- September is in the inter – monsoon searson. there might be occasional rain at evening time. Be ready.
Site Visit Experience
The Dambana field visit was carried out with a total of 78 participants under the coordination of Mr. Visvalingam. The program was supported by 4 volunteers, along with 8 interpreters who facilitated communication, and 1 media official who covered photos and videos of the visit.
Discover the Details of the next destination
Get detailed insights about the site visit planned during the Global Forum event and prepare for an enriching experience.