Remnantsof Early Civilisation in the Yala Territory

The Yala National Park, located in the south western corner of the island, is a haven for several species of flora and fauna. Recent discoveries, however, showcase that Yala is not just the home of wildlife and rich foliage, but also a place where ancient human civilisation once thrived.

An area of the national park was believed to be a breeding ground for a species of ‘beast men’, popularly known as ‘Nittaewo’, during ancient times. A publication titled Nittaewo – the Hobbits of Sri Lanka, compiled by Pradeep Jayatunga, provides insight into the legends pertaining to these early beings. Various accounts indicate that they may have been around four feet tall, with red hair, long sharp claws, and possessing other features similar to that of the Neanderthal. Legend states that these beings once roamed the territory of the park as hunter-gatherers and were in constant conflict with the Lenama Veddah tribe (indigenous people). The conflict was purported to often result in small ambushes and theft. It is believed that the Nittaewo were physically weaker to the Veddahs, which led to the ‘beast men’ using ambush tactics to best the Veddahs. Carcasses of monitor lizards and tortoises found in the Mahalenama cave are believed to be indicative of the diets and lifestyle of the ancient men.

The ongoing conflict between the two, however, is believed to have ultimately led to the extinction of the Nittaewo, as the Veddahs proved to be strategically superior. Legends state that the extinction came about when the Lenama Veddahs trapped the last of the Nittaewo in a cave and suffocated them. The Bambaragasthalawa Cave inside the park is believed to be one of the caves used for this purpose by the Veddha tribe.