Yan Oya, a river deeply woven into the history and daily life of Sri Lanka’s dry zone, is a lifeline for both agriculture and wildlife, uniquely shaping the diverse ecosystems it traverses. Spanning 142km, it flows through the North Central and Eastern Provinces, where it plays an indispensable role in supporting irrigation and agriculture in the dry zone.

For local farming communities, Yan Oya is a critical resource, providing water that sustains crops even during the island’s dry spells. Its passage through several national parks adds an important ecological aspect, fostering a habitat rich in wildlife and plant diversity. The river’s banks are lined with Kumbuk trees, shrubs and grasses that can withstand the intense climate. This flora, in turn, supports a variety of fauna - from Elephants that roam its banks to Giant Squirrels and Hedgehogs.