In the heart of Sri Lanka's Dry Zone lies a hidden gem: The Kalavava and Balalu Vava areas are renowned as the home for the highest density of Sri Lankan tuskers and were declared as a proposed National Park in 2015 under the custodianship of the Department of Wildlife Conservation (DWC), although it has, thus far not been officially established as one. Further, the lack of a sustainable strategy and mismanagement of irrigational solutions for agricultural purposes and a recently set-up private mini hydropower plant in Ibbankatuva combine to cause the flooding of Kalavava area, compelling elephants to migrate to adjacent areas due to the loss of their seasonal feeding grounds within their own traditional habitat.

Kalavava’s significance extends far beyond its natural beauty. Dating back to the 5th Century AD, this ancient landscape was crafted by King Dhatusena and is framed by the towering Kumbuk (Arjuna terminalia) trees that have stood sentinel for centuries. Spanning over 6,000 hectares, Kalavava is not just a sanctuary for wildlife but a living testament to Sri Lanka's rich history and the deep connection between its people and the land.

Yet, this serene landscape has been scarred by human actions. In early 2021, Rewatha—a tusker known for his grace and grandeur—was tragically electrocuted by an illegal wire set up to protect private crops. This was followed by the loss of another iconic tusker, Bharana, further underscoring the urgent need for effective protection and management. The loss of these magnificent beings is a stark reminder that Kalavava’s future hangs in the balance.