Sri Lanka’s Living Model of Forest-Based Sustainability
Located in the lush highlands of Mirahawatte, Welimada, Belipola Arboretum stands as one of the most renowned and pioneering examples of analog forestry in the world. Established in the early 1980s, it was the first site where analog forestry—a method that restores degraded ecosystems by mimicking the structure and function of natural forests—was developed and tested.
Belipola is not only a lush sanctuary of biodiversity but also a living classroom for agroecology, ecological restoration, and sustainable food production. The site spans several acres of richly forested land, featuring hundreds of native and introduced species that coexist in a self-sustaining ecosystem. Trees, shrubs, herbs, medicinal plants, and food crops are all grown in layers that resemble natural forest systems.
At the heart of Belipola’s philosophy is a belief in working with nature, not against it. It demonstrates how food production, livelihood generation, and ecological regeneration can go hand in hand. The site produces organic fruits, spices, vegetables, herbal medicines, and even promotes carbon sequestration, soil conservation, and water retention through its design.
Belipola also functions as a training and research center, hosting programs for farmers, students, activists, and development professionals from around the world. It is a perfect case study of land stewardship rooted in regenerative principles, offering practical alternatives to industrial agriculture, monoculture plantations, and chemically intensive food systems.
A visit to Belipola Arboretum is more than a forest walk—it is a journey into what a climate-friendly, community-based, and ecologically sound future could look like.
Visitors will get to :
- Tour the analog forest and learn about its multi-layered ecological design.
- Understand the role of trees in food systems and climate resilience.
- Interact with local stewards and practitioners of ecological farming.
- Learn how ecological knowledge can be integrated into farming, land use, and community development.
Trip Details
- DATE : 12th of September 2025
- STARTING TIME : 6.00 AM
- DISTANCE FROM NICD: 130km
- TRAVELLING TIME: 4 hours
- Maximum number of participants is 30
- Breakfast will be provided at NICD or hotel
- Lunch will be provided on the site, local food and fruits will be provided by the community.
What to bring
- The weather in Welimada is cool in the morning and evening, so wear comfortable clothes.
- It is expected to be cloudy with spells and scattered showers in September.
- The jungle trail is 2 km long. Leeches may be present, so come prepared.
Site Visit Experience
The Belipola Arboretum field visit was conducted with a total of 34 participants under the coordination of Mr. Ajantha. The visit was supported by 2 volunteers, 4 interpreters who facilitated communication, and 3 media personnel who took photos and videos of the activities.
