The Maduru Oya National Park was established in 1983 as part of the Mahaweli development project. Spanning 58,850 hectares, the park serves as a sanctuary for wildlife, especially elephants, and protects the catchments of five reservoirs. It is home to a community of Vedda people, the indigenous ethnic group of Sri Lanka. The park features diverse flora and fauna, including endemic species like the Sri Lanka junglefowl and red-faced malkoha. However, it faces challenges such as encroachment, poaching, and invasive species like Lantana camara. Efforts are being made to address these issues and preserve this important natural habitat.