Sri Lanka is set to further develop Nildiya Pokuna in Ella as a designated tourism zone, with the government preparing to issue a Gazette Notification placing the popular attraction under the management of the Department of Wildlife Conservation.

Environment Minister Dr. Dammika Patabendi said the relevant Gazette Notification is scheduled to be signed on September 7, following Cabinet approval for the necessary laws and regulations.

The move could create new opportunities to develop Nildiya Pokuna as part of Ella’s growing tourism offering while placing greater emphasis on protecting its natural environment. Ella is already one of Sri Lanka’s most popular destinations, attracting visitors with its mountains, waterfalls, tea plantations and nature-based experiences.

Bringing Nildiya Pokuna under the Department of Wildlife Conservation could also support a more structured approach to managing visitor activity and preserving the attraction as tourist interest continues to grow.

The development adds another potential attraction to Ella’s tourism landscape and highlights the government's broader focus on expanding tourism while incorporating conservation into the development of natural destinations.