I recently visited Horton Plains National Park, and it was truly a therapeutic experience. Surrounded by misty hills, fresh mountain air, and breathtaking scenery, the whole place felt calm and healing. The hike through the plains was both relaxing and refreshing — a perfect escape from the usual busy routine. The view from World’s End was absolutely stunning, and walking along the trail felt like being one with nature. The sound of the wind, the rustling trees, and the quietness of the surroundings made it an ideal spot to unwind and clear my mind.

🌿 Horton Plains National Park – A Truly Mesmerizing Experience! 🌄 Visiting Horton Plains was absolutely breathtaking — the views were simply stunning, especially at World’s End! The trails are peaceful and surrounded by incredible natural beauty. The refreshing breeze, lush greenery, and cascading waterfalls make it a must-visit for any nature lover. Truly one of Sri Lanka’s most magical destinations! 💚✨

Truly an amazing place to explore wildlife and nature! The hike to Mini World’s End, World’s End, and Baker’s Falls took around 4 hours in total, and every part of the journey was worth it. The views were breathtaking and the atmosphere so peaceful. Keep in mind that plastic bottles and non degradable packages are not allowed inside the park, which is great for protecting the environment. Overall, it was an unforgettable experience!

Horton Plains is a must-visit! Beautiful trails, peaceful atmosphere, and the views at World’s End are unforgettable. Great spot for hiking and photography. Highly recommend going early in the morning to catch the mist and sunrise

“An unforgettable experience! Horton Plains is one of the most beautiful and well-preserved nature reserves in Sri Lanka. From the moment you enter, you're surrounded by cool mountain air, peaceful silence, and stunning scenery. The 9.5 km circular trail is perfect for nature lovers and offers a mix of grasslands, cloud forests, and waterfalls. The highlight, of course, is World’s End — a dramatic cliff with panoramic views that will take your breath away. On clear mornings, you can see all the way to the south coast. Baker’s Falls is another gem along the trail, with refreshing mist and a picture-perfect view. You’ll likely spot wildlife too — like sambar deer, birds, and unique plants found nowhere else. The path is well-marked and not too difficult, but wear good shoes and bring water. It’s also important to go early to avoid the crowds and get the clearest views. Truly a magical place that combines adventure, peace, and natural beauty in one journey. Highly recommended for hikers, photographers, and anyone wanting to connect with nature!” 🌿🏞️📸

Horton Plains is such a peaceful and refreshing place. The cool weather, misty views, World’s End, and Baker’s Falls make it unforgettable. A perfect spot to enjoy nature in the highlands. 🎫 Ticket Price reasonable. (Adults 150/= Children 100/= ⏳ Open daily from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM, but entry is usually allowed only up to 2:00 PM since visitors must leave before closing. 🛣️ Approximately 10 km trail to round trip

Horton Plains National Park is truly a breathtaking gem in Sri Lanka! 🌿✨ The scenery is absolutely stunning with endless green landscapes, misty mountains, and crystal-clear streams. The hike to World's End is an unforgettable experience – the view is magical, especially early in the morning. 🏞️ I also loved Baker’s Falls, which adds even more beauty to the journey. The air is so fresh and the surroundings are peaceful, making it the perfect escape into nature. 🦋🐦 You can spot unique wildlife and plenty of colorful birds along the way too. The trail is well-marked, and the park is well-maintained, which made the whole experience very enjoyable. Highly recommended for anyone who loves hiking, nature, and breathtaking views. Definitely one of the must-visit places in Sri Lanka! 💚

I recently visited Horton Plains National Park, and it was truly a therapeutic experience. Surrounded by misty hills, fresh mountain air, and breathtaking scenery, the whole place felt calm and healing. The hike through the plains was both relaxing and refreshing — a perfect escape from the usual busy routine. The view from World’s End was absolutely stunning, and walking along the trail felt like being one with nature. The sound of the wind, the rustling trees, and the quietness of the surroundings made it an ideal spot to unwind and clear my mind.

🌿 Horton Plains National Park – A Truly Mesmerizing Experience! 🌄 Visiting Horton Plains was absolutely breathtaking — the views were simply stunning, especially at World’s End! The trails are peaceful and surrounded by incredible natural beauty. The refreshing breeze, lush greenery, and cascading waterfalls make it a must-visit for any nature lover. Truly one of Sri Lanka’s most magical destinations! 💚✨

Truly an amazing place to explore wildlife and nature! The hike to Mini World’s End, World’s End, and Baker’s Falls took around 4 hours in total, and every part of the journey was worth it. The views were breathtaking and the atmosphere so peaceful. Keep in mind that plastic bottles and non degradable packages are not allowed inside the park, which is great for protecting the environment. Overall, it was an unforgettable experience!

Horton Plains is a must-visit! Beautiful trails, peaceful atmosphere, and the views at World’s End are unforgettable. Great spot for hiking and photography. Highly recommend going early in the morning to catch the mist and sunrise

“An unforgettable experience! Horton Plains is one of the most beautiful and well-preserved nature reserves in Sri Lanka. From the moment you enter, you're surrounded by cool mountain air, peaceful silence, and stunning scenery. The 9.5 km circular trail is perfect for nature lovers and offers a mix of grasslands, cloud forests, and waterfalls. The highlight, of course, is World’s End — a dramatic cliff with panoramic views that will take your breath away. On clear mornings, you can see all the way to the south coast. Baker’s Falls is another gem along the trail, with refreshing mist and a picture-perfect view. You’ll likely spot wildlife too — like sambar deer, birds, and unique plants found nowhere else. The path is well-marked and not too difficult, but wear good shoes and bring water. It’s also important to go early to avoid the crowds and get the clearest views. Truly a magical place that combines adventure, peace, and natural beauty in one journey. Highly recommended for hikers, photographers, and anyone wanting to connect with nature!” 🌿🏞️📸

Horton Plains is such a peaceful and refreshing place. The cool weather, misty views, World’s End, and Baker’s Falls make it unforgettable. A perfect spot to enjoy nature in the highlands. 🎫 Ticket Price reasonable. (Adults 150/= Children 100/= ⏳ Open daily from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM, but entry is usually allowed only up to 2:00 PM since visitors must leave before closing. 🛣️ Approximately 10 km trail to round trip

Horton Plains National Park is truly a breathtaking gem in Sri Lanka! 🌿✨ The scenery is absolutely stunning with endless green landscapes, misty mountains, and crystal-clear streams. The hike to World's End is an unforgettable experience – the view is magical, especially early in the morning. 🏞️ I also loved Baker’s Falls, which adds even more beauty to the journey. The air is so fresh and the surroundings are peaceful, making it the perfect escape into nature. 🦋🐦 You can spot unique wildlife and plenty of colorful birds along the way too. The trail is well-marked, and the park is well-maintained, which made the whole experience very enjoyable. Highly recommended for anyone who loves hiking, nature, and breathtaking views. Definitely one of the must-visit places in Sri Lanka! 💚

Climbing Adam’s Peak during the day was a really nice activity. The hike itself was peaceful, and reaching the top felt amazing with the cool breeze and beautiful views all around. A memorable experience!

Sri Pada is a mountain in central Sri Lanka, about 2,243 meters (around 7,360 ft) high. It is considered sacred by multiple religions. For Buddhists, there is a footprint-shaped rock near the summit believed to be that of the Buddha. Hindus say it’s of Shiva, some Christians and Muslims believe it’s the footprint of Adam or other figures. Many pilgrims climb overnight so they can reach the summit in time to see the sunrise (“Ira Sevaya”). Along the journey there are customary stops: places to rest, small shrines, places for offerings. The trails go through beautiful landscapes: tropical forests, mist-covered hills, tea plantations, streams. The surrounding area is part of the Peak Wilderness Sanctuary, which has rich biodiversity and is a protected natural area. Watching the sunrise from the top is one of the most memorable parts. The view, the light, the feeling of being above the clouds — many say it’s unforgettable. Also, at sunrise, due to the shape of the mountain, a triangular shadow is cast onto surrounding terrain — a visual phenomenon many visitors try to witness.

Climbing Sri Pada is truly one of the most remarkable and rewarding experiences in Sri Lanka. We went during the off-season, and it was a completely different kind of adventure — peaceful and quiet, with very few people on the trail. Most of the shops along the way were closed, except for a few, especially one near the Maha Giri Dambe area, which was a welcome stop for a short break. The climb is around 3–4 km one way, with approximately 4,500 steps from the bottom to the summit. Sanitary facilities are available along the trail, though many may not be functional during the off-season. Before starting the climb, we had to inform both the Nallathanniya Police and the Forest Conservation Department at the Makara Thorana area to obtain permission. There was also a fee of over Rs. 1,000 payable to the Forest Department to access the Siripada walkway during the off-season. Despite the challenges, the journey was truly mind-blowing — the cool air, misty surroundings, and sacred atmosphere make it an unforgettable spiritual and physical experience. Whether you witness the iconic sunrise from the top or not, the sense of accomplishment and peace after reaching the summit is beyond words. A must-do experience for travelers from all around the world!

Climbing Adam’s Peak during the daytime in the off-season is a completely different experience — quiet, peaceful, and beautifully raw. Unlike the busy season with crowds and lights, the mountain feels calm and untouched, almost like you have the whole trail to yourself. The daytime sunlight brings out the true beauty of the surroundings. On the way up, I could clearly see the valleys, waterfalls, tea estates, and endless greenery. The silence of the mountain, mixed with the sound of birds and the cool breeze, made the climb feel refreshing and meditative. The steps are still challenging, especially the steep sections towards the top, but the slower pace and open views make the journey enjoyable. There are fewer shops open during off-season, but that adds to the natural, authentic feel of the climb. Reaching the summit in the daytime is a special experience — no rush, no crowd, just pure peace. The temple at the top is very calm, and the panoramic view spreads across the mountains like a giant painting. Even without the sunrise, the beauty of the landscape is breathtaking. Climbing down in the daylight is much easier and gives you even more time to enjoy the scenery. The weather can change quickly, so clouds might roll in suddenly, but that only adds to the magical atmosphere of the mountain. Overall, a daytime off-season climb at Adam’s Peak is perfect for anyone who enjoys nature at its purest — quiet trails, real adventure, and no crowd. It’s a peaceful, refreshing, and deeply memorable experience

Best is to start climbing at around 3am, the hike usually last less than 2 hours so you'll arrive at 5am just in time for sunrise.

Visiting Sri Pada is truly an unforgettable experience. The journey to the top is challenging but incredibly rewarding. Climbing through the night, surrounded by people from all walks of life, creates such a special atmosphere of faith, determination, and unity. The path is well maintained, with plenty of places to rest, have some tea, and enjoy the cool mountain air. The climb can be tiring, but the sense of peace and spirituality you feel along the way keeps you going. Reaching the summit just before sunrise and seeing the first light spread across the mountains is absolutely breathtaking — a moment that stays with you forever. The surroundings are clean and well looked after, and the people along the way are friendly and supportive. Whether you go for religious reasons or simply for the experience, Sri Pada is a place that fills your heart with calm and gratitude. Truly one of the most beautiful and sacred places in Sri Lanka. The photo attached is the view of sripada from my home 🙏

Please note that the peak season runs from December to May. You can climb, but you cannot visit the upper temple! Ascent starts at 2:00 AM (better to climb in a cool breeze than in hot weather). I advise you to go with at least a liter of water, a coat, gloves, and a scarf, as the weather is very cold. Also, bring fruits and food. 5,800 steps, takes between 2-4 hours to ascend.

Great hike with beautiful views! We hiked Ella Rock from Tree House Hostel and it took us about 1.5 hours to the top. The hike is not too difficult, just follow the train tracks for the first part. Important tip: after walking along the tracks, you’ll pass a small house on the left – take the path next to it. Then you’ll cross a little bridge with a waterfall. Apps like Maps.me will tell you to go straight after the bridge, but that’s wrong. You should turn right through the tea fields and follow the trail marked with orange dots on the trees. The trail is clear from there and the views from the top are definitely worth it. Start early to avoid the heat and the crowds.

A short but engaging hike, with two stellar vistas at the peak. I recommend leaving early to avoid the heat and moisture. The initial path is rather confusing, but the locals are very helpful. You need to pay when you reach the top, but I recommend going around because the price is a bit unfair (930! I’ve been to parks for 100)

Loved it! There’s snack stalls along the way with fresh juice and coconut water. I’d recommend getting one as they’re divine and support local people outside of the Ella High street. Hike had some steep / unstable surfaces so worth considering. Not sure it would be suitable in the rain because of this.

Recommended hike, there are some climbs a bit demanding but nothing impossible, very nice departure from Kithe Ella station, upon arrival at the summit you have to pay and there are two view points, marked path

Beautiful trail. Highly recommend. For experienced / fit hikers it is easy. The last 400m is steep but not technically challenging. It will be hard to old or unfit people. A few of things to be aware of: 1) at the top there is a ticket counter trying to get you to pay 950 rupees to access the two Ella rock viewpoints. Here’s what to do instead. Just before reaching the top of the climb, you’ll see a ticket counter on your left. Instead of going there, take the small trail on your right — this will let you skip the entry fee. Follow this dirt path until you pass a wooden shack on your left, then keep going straight. The trail will lead you directly to the second viewpoint. This way you can see both without paying the very obvious scam fee. 2) along the railroad multiple locals will tell you you’re going the wrong way and try to redirect you - these are scams. Get to the tea plantation and cross the bridge to access the correct trail entrance. 3) To find the trailhead, Follow the videos posted in this thread. But beware that currently locals have blocked off the correct trail entrance with tree branches. This is likely to confuse you and make you more susceptible to redirection. Just go around the blockade and rejoin the trail - you will be fine. Alternatively, follow the green dotted line in google maps, or use AllTrails for a detailed trail map.

First track is quite easy but if you want to continue and go to other peaks it will get harder. Make sure to have water and good shoes. Totally worth it!

There is really no signs and if it were not for the grace of a local farmer who rescued us after we took a very bad wrong turn we would have been covered in leeches and very very lost. We ended up not going up but followed the rail track and saw the train up close as it went past

Little Adam’s Peak is a solid “must do” for anyone visiting Ella, especially if you like hikes that are rewarding but not overly taxing. If the weather is clear and you go early, you’re likely to enjoy one of the most beautiful short hikes in the area. But don’t expect a completely flat or trivial walk — there are inclines and stairs, and depending on your fitness, you might find some parts challenging.

Must visit place if you’re a scenery chaser. A very simple climb to the top, great view and vibes. Wasn’t super crowded and the clouds covering up the view towards evening is very very beautiful.

Stunning views can get quite busy at lunch time so come before , toilets before the start of the trail and small vendors for water The sky wall trail was so fun on the way down !! Deffo recommend for stunning views Easy to follow signs

Little Adam’s Peak – Ella, Sri Lanka🌄 short, scenic hike near Ella in the Badulla District Start early (before sunrise) for the best views and fewer crowds Easy 30–45 min hike through tea plantationsand Stunning sunrise/sunset views of Ella Rock and surrounding hills 🌅 Two main viewpoints with 360° panoramic views No entrance fee ✅ Check the weatherbefore you go Very accessible – walk or take a tuk-from Ella town Highly recommendedif you're in Ella! 🌿📸

Visiting Little Adam’s Peak in Ella was an amazing experience. The hike is enjoyable and not too difficult, and the views at the top are absolutely beautiful. Make sure to bring a water bottle with you — but please don’t throw it away, as it’s important to keep the place clean. Little Adam’s Peak is maintained by the 98 Acres Hotel Group, and they are doing an excellent job. The area is well-organized, clean, and very visitor-friendly. They also offer a variety of exciting activities such as bungee jumping, ATV rides, rope climbing, a mountain swing, and a zipline. If you have the time, you should definitely try these activities — they make the experience even more fun and memorable.

This is one of the must-visit places in Sri Lanka. It’s a small hike, but absolutely worth the climb! We went around 5 AM to watch the sunrise — the view was breathtaking. The place was full of foreigners when we visited, yet everyone enjoyed the scenery peacefully without disturbing others. We spent about an hour and a half there and had the best time. Highly recommended for anyone who loves exploring beautiful views and relaxing their mind.

The sunset view from Little Adam's Peak is beyond magnificent. It's a kind of beauty that words fail to capture. A must-visit! 💞

It's my first time visiting here. The cold was too much for me to bear. However, I was enjoying the time. So much to see, yet the time is limited. At the end don't forget to taste a glass of hot chocolate 😋 its mouthwatering. However i couldn't see milking process as I went in the afternoon. I recommend to go in the morning.

Ambewela, also known as the New Zealand Farm, is currently open to the public. I mentioned this because during the COVID-19 pandemic, it was closed, and some people might still think there are restrictions in place. At the checkpoint before entering the premises, the tyres of all vehicles are sanitized by the staff. Visitors are required to purchase a ticket, after which they can walk around the farm and observe cows, goats, rabbits, and other animals. Personally, I found the odor inside the cow shelters quite unbearable, so it may not be suitable for people with respiratory conditions or for infants. Milking hours are 4.00am to 9.15am, noon to 5.00pm and 8.00pm to next day 1.00am. Unfortunately, I couldn't experience that, so, I don’t have any comment to pass on that. There are two restaurants within the premises. You can buy Ambewela products such as cheese, milk, and milk powder at a discounted price, and enjoy snacks like fries and burgers along with a hot glass of fresh milk.

We recently visited Ambewela Farm with our two kids, and it was a wonderful experience! The drive through the hills was beautiful, and the cool, fresh air made it even better. The kids absolutely loved seeing the cows and learning how the dairy products are made. The place is clean, well maintained, and very family friendly. We also enjoyed the fresh milk, chicken burger , fries and yogurt at the café definitely worth trying! It’s a great outing for families who want to combine fun, learning, and nature. Highly recommend visiting if you’re in Nuwara Eliya.

The green hills are quite scenic, but the farm might put you off though. Make sure to check the weather before you go. It's absolutely horrible if it starts raining and the winds can be quite strong and feel like a storm even though it's just a small shower. The farm restaurant can serve you a bite for very cheap. But there's quite a bit of walking around there and they wouldn't let you take your vehicle inside the facility. Could be nice if it's sunny, absolutely horrible if it's raining.

Ambewela Farm is a great place to visit, especially for kids! They can see cows, learn about milk processing, and meet other farm animals. The weather is cold and misty, adding to the beauty of the surroundings and giving the whole place a peaceful vibe. The green fields and scenic nature views are truly refreshing. One thing to note — the smell inside the cows’ resting areas can be a bit strong for some people, but that’s part of the real farm experience. Overall, it’s a lovely place to explore and learn something new while enjoying Sri Lanka’s hill country charm.

A must visit place if you are in Nuwaraeliya specially with the kids. Scenic environment with well kept high tech factory. Not only the cows you can see a variety of farm animals here including bunnies and goats. Highly recommend for a family visit.

We visited Ambewela Farm and first found the café on Google Maps. We tried the hot chocolate, which was delicious and went perfectly with the cookies though the cookie portion was more than enough! I’d suggest offering a half-cup option for kids, so food doesn’t go to waste. The service was good, and I would definitely recommend this café. However, the washroom facilities need some improvement.

It was lots of fun , we got the supreme package . Some dry area rides were unavailable unfortunately but there plenty of rides to go on. We had fun with water rides too. My only complain is there were not enough tubes available. We had to wait for a long time to get a tube and we couldn't find a double tube either. We both got individual tubes and went separately. You have to snatch the tubes from people who came down the ride. It was quite unpleasant. We gave up going on one ride because we didn't want to wait for the tubes again. We spent lot of time chilling in the new kiddy pool. It felt refreshing. We had lunch from the food court. It wasn't expensive and food was pretty good. Other than that , it was a overall fun experience

The place was super clean.but they doesn't allow outside lunch pack.entrance security is very friendly.the people near the playing things is not supporting or not engaging us to play.Milo price is sold + Rs 20 with the normal price.

Leisure World is a large park with plenty of fun activities, especially in the dry area. It’s great for families, but the maintenance of rides and equipment needs serious attention—some parts felt unsafe for kids. Staff experience was mixed; some were helpful, but others seemed lazy, and overall customer service could be better. With proper upkeep and more friendly, active staff, this place could be one of the best amusement parks in the country.

The Tickets are reasonable price for the games that we played. It's a best experience and most happiest place that we visit. Some games are more adventurous.

We have visited here on Saturday and there were over 500 people. But we didn’t feel any pressure or discomfort here because of the capacity of this facility is too high. We booked Rs. 1900/- package and we entered by 1.00pm. They start by 9.00am and close by 4.30pm. We highly recommend this place to anyone with or without kids. Family friendly. Bring silk material shorts or you can buy it’s Rs.500/- They don’t allow pets, alcohol or food from out side. Value for the money you pay. 👍

There is huge parking space for vehicles. All the package details are included in the main entrance. The receptionist’s behaviour was unpleasant and she doesn’t explain things well to the customers and she tries to buy tickets without asking our final decision. That was the only bad experience we had. We got the amusement area only package for just Rs.950/=. If you buy packages there is no need to pay for entrance ticket. Otherwise entrance only ticket price is Rs.250. 7 games were included for that package and all the package instructions can be find on their website also. Besides the package included games, if you want to play other amusement games you have to pay for them separately, approximately Rs.200 for each. Although you got a package, you can play one game for one time. You can’t bring food from the outside. There are few shops in the park. The prices are little bit higher than the outside prices but not that much bad. Toilet facilities are there. If you forgot to bring swimsuits, there is a shop inside. Also, you can buy swimsuits from the outside of the park also (from other sellers). Overall, the place is fun and you can enjoy and since it is well maintained the environment also nice and clean.

Wonderful place to enjoy with family …. Worth for the cost …. Water games are unlimited into the package ….note : please bring nylon dress with you .( cotton dresses not allowed)

This was truly a fantastic experience. The team was fully organized and flawlessly guided the entire group through the rafting. Beautiful views and emotions I will never forget!

This is my first rafting experience ever and I enjoyed a lot! SP was the coordinator who was very kind, we were accompanied by Amila and Wasana who did a GREAT JOB!!!!!! We also did a small jump from a cliff into the water which was amazing! The instructions were very clear in English. We were allowed to swim for 5-10 in between. Our overall experience was just extraordinary!

This whitewater rafting trip was an absolute thrill ride! From the moment we hit the first rapid, the adrenaline was pumping, and the stunning scenery of the river canyon only added to the excitement. Our experienced guides were fantastic, ensuring everyone felt safe and had a blast navigating the rapids. A must-do for anyone seeking an unforgettable adventure!". Thank you for #Rafting Team 39👏👏👏

Great time with this team. We just did canyoning we were three (2 adults and a 10 year old child) and it was perfect for all of us. This team has certificates and Insurances they are also well formed in life saving. During the activity they give good explanations and advise before and during each obstacles. They film many parts of the trip and take photos before each stage with a GoPro and sell you a card or they can put it in your phone for RS 5000

This is the second time we did rafting with Team 39. They are very professional. Treated us well. They have covered all the travellers with an insurance. The owner Mr. Ravi is a friendly chap. You can negotiate with him. We couldn't go for rafting on the day we booked due to heavy rains. But he allowd us to come another day without any additional charge. His team members are talented. No need to fear rafting with them.

Went canyoning and rafting with them, the guides were super friendly, helpful, and did an excellent job making sure we were safe and enjoyed the activities. The content they captured on the go pro was great too. Highly recommend the place!

We had a fabulous time with Team 39. They are professionals and friendly. They know how to give us the best experience. And Special thanks to Thilina and other team member for their warm and friendly and also professional services. We loved every bit of it ❤️ Highly recommend.

A nicely designed restaurant mainly focusing the foreign guests. The main focus is to sell tea and provide refreshments to visitors to tea factory and who take on the safari to Ramboda falls. Limited food/snacks options, mostly sweet and unhealthy snacks. The tea is fine but most of the beverages specially the coffee are overpriced. Friendly service. Ample parking. Great views and fresh air. The toilets are moderately clean. Overall a good place to take a break specially as an alternative to the Damro Labukelle Restaurant when it is overcrowded on peak days.

A fantastic stop! They offer explanations about the tea-making process, showcasing how traditional methods and machinery are used. You can even witness real-time tea leaf picking. Their store has a great selection of high-quality organic teas and powders...

This place was an amazing experience, we did the factory tour; as we did the tea plucking elsewhere. But we found out this place offers both. The tour was very informative, while being very visual as well. Once the tour was done, we went to the cafe to try their tea. Some of the best tea I have had, their food wasn’t anything amazing but it was still nice. The view is great with their tea fields everywhere. If you are near this area, I highly recommend trying this place, especially if you are interested in learning how tea is made

A quick trip with a lovely guide. The tea picking experience was a bit of a tourist thing and the 'free' tour of the factory was very good but ... the tea is ridiculously expensive. They can easily give free tours when they are charging £17 for 20g of tea! I nearly fainted when they gave me the bill!

Beautiful place. They let you to collect some leaves and take some pictures. Visit is free but here our prices: Tuktuk 6000rs go, retour and stay waiting. 500rs tip. Free visiting 1000rs tip for visiting. Photo tip 1500rs. Milk Tea dégustation 300rs. (Simple black tea is free). Box of tea 100g, 1200rs.

Wonderful experience at Blue Field Tea! The tea was delicious and authentic, and the beautiful surroundings made it even more enjoyable. Thank you for the warm hospitality and excellent service.”

Very nice place to be honest but the service is the WORST they prefer tourists more than the local people, they don't have slightest care about us but they personally direct tourists to a sitting place I really hope a manager or anyone higher see this and change it. For the note me and my mom ordered honey & lemon and ginger tea both tastes the same.

I went on a trip with my friends to Ramboda Waterfall. The view from the upper viewpoint was amazing, and swimming at the bottom was really refreshing. A beautiful spot for both sightseeing and enjoying the water! 🌊🏞️ Note: Avoid swimming during the rainy season.

What a scenic place with an easy hike. You have to just climb approximately 850m up the stairs with a ticket of Rs. 50/=. You can see a beautiful waterfall when you go up. The water under that is not that deep, so you can have a fine bath. Also, if you wanna go very close to the waterfall, that’s also possible, but, it’s kind of risky, since it’s slippery. When you go to the sandy part and look around, you feel like you are in a whole different place. ❤️🥹 A-must-visit place if you are travelling to Nuwara Eliya. 💦

Our Tuktuk driver recommended us visiting this waterfall instead of Lovers Leap and in hindsight, I couldn’t agree more with him. We had to pay 200 LKR for entry, but it’s more than worth that. The hike is advertised as easy but I would recommend people bring water and put on hiking shoes. Also bring long socks so the leeches don’t get you. You can swim which we didn’t because it was too cold, but it looks lovely.

The sound of the rushing water and the cool breeze make it such a peaceful and refreshing place to visit. The waterfall itself is tall, powerful, and picture-perfect — a must-see spot for anyone traveling through Sri Lanka’s hill country. If you love nature, this place will leave you speechless. Don’t forget your camera — every angle is stunning! 🌊 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ — Highly recommended for anyone who wants to experience the beauty of Sri Lanka!

It’s a beautiful falls. We are going to nuwara elly from Kandy. Then we stop here. We also walked all the way to top of the falls. It’s worth it. You must visit this fall if you’re going visit this place .

It was raining when I visited it and I was alone there. Super waterfall and great photo opportunity. There was more water falling due to the rain and it was super cool and mighty. Entrance is 200rupee and it is worth it. The climb is easy even with regular sneakers. After seeing this waterfall I skipped all the rest that were on my itinerary.

After about a 500-meter hike up stairs of various sizes, your jaw will drop. You walk alongside the river, but when you reach the waterfall, it’s truly breathtaking.

Yes, this is a touristy place and yes, you’re pushed into buying tea, chocolate and then souvenirs. But keeping that in mind, we still rather enjoyed our visit. The lady that received us was nice and tried to explain the whole tea harvesting and processing while showing their facilities. We couldn’t quite understand everything since it was a bit noisy, but we still learned a few things and we’re eager to try to learn more online when we get home. You will also try some tea samples, and you’re invited to try (buy) some of their cakes or chocolates (which were very good). Then you will visit the tea store (we bought a medium size can, as our suitcases are very full and we usually don’t drink a lot of tea) and the souvenir boutique (they actually have some nice T-shirt designs, but they could stock up on smaller sizes, as most were 2XL or 3XL). Then you will visit a part of the garden and you can try to harvest some of the tea leaves. The same lady was kind enough to let us take some pictures of her with her dress and the basket needed for the task. We recommend this visit.

We had a very interesting tour here. Explanation of tea production process, various kinds of tea tasting, tea leaves gathering. Tour is free, but in the end you are expected to buy something in the store and give a tip to a guide. The factory is surrounded by a scenic landscape, so we made lots of nice photos.

I recommend to come here if you want to visit a typical Sri Lankan tea factory and estate. Authentic experience, not the usual tourist trap. A guide will lead you through the factory explaining the tea production process. Then you get the chance to learn how to pick leaves during a tour of the estate and you get a tasting of different kinds of teas with a view on the tea valley. Our guide was incredibly welcoming and shared with us her knowledge. For all this, you just have to leave a tip. And there’s a shop with plenty of choice to buy tea but also coffee. No need to book in advance but better to arrange it before.

Great Experience at Glenloch Tea Factory 🍃 We had a lovely visit to Glenloch Tea Factory and Tea Center. The guided tour was informative and engaging—we learned a lot about the tea-making process and got to taste several delicious varieties. The staff were friendly and passionate, which made the experience even more enjoyable. A highlight was trying our hand at tea picking, which was both fun and memorable. We highly recommend stopping by if you're in the Nuwara Eliya area.

Amazing experience and very friendly stuff. They even dressed my daughter with the traditional clothing and took us to the tea field to pick leaves

Loved the tour—very informative and well organized. The staff were friendly, and we enjoyed tasting different teas. Beautiful location and a great place to learn about Sri Lankan tea. Highly recommend!

This was my best tea factory visit compared to the one I saw in India and Indonesia. Their process of tea making seemed also more refined with better equipment. Our factory guide explained well the process and the different types of tea. We also sampled the different types. Very nice experience.. thanks!

We visited the Botanical Garden and honestly, it was such a beautiful experience. There are so many different species of plants, flowers, grass, and unique greenery everywhere you look. You can also find trees and plants planted by many famous and political figures, which makes it even more interesting as you walk through. The whole place is stunning and definitely worth visiting. They also offer a golf cart tour around the garden, which is perfect if you don’t want to walk the entire area. Ours was around 2,360 LKR for a one-hour ride (if I remember correctly), and it was totally worth it. Overall, a wonderful stop in Kandy!

A Refreshing Escape at Peradeniya Royal Botanical Gardens Visiting the Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya was an absolute delight. The lush greenery, vibrant flowers, and beautifully maintained landscapes make it a perfect spot to unwind and reconnect with nature. From towering palm avenues to exotic orchids and serene lakes, every corner offers something breathtaking. The gardens are well-organized, clean, and ideal for photography, picnics, or a peaceful walk. Highly recommend this gem to anyone visiting Kandy, it’s a must-see for nature lovers and explorers alike.. Rating: 10/10

An excellent botanical garden. Perfectly arranged and excellently maintained. The hiking trails are well thought out, and there is also the possibility of driving with a guide. An interesting part where famous world figures planted certain plants in different periods of time. Well labeled plants with brief information. You can spend the entire day because there is so much to see. Any recommendation.

It was a spectacular plant life visit in candy. Starting with the flower gardens, the orchid house and ordice garden. The double coconut palms for different types of grass plant house and beautiful legend board, giving directions from 1 to 47 to Locate Everything in the Botanical Garden. We started with a ticket which is 3540 for foreigners. Of course, locals pay much less. The staff around the inquiry counter and the ticketing counter is very courtious. Buggies took us around the sprawling botanical gardens, which are close to over 100. And 40 acres. Excellent place to visit when you are in Sri Lanka. Don't miss it. Again, parking washrooms are very good and not to. Miss the store just easily to the intrigate. Excellent please to buy give away handicrafts

Beautiful garden with huge variety of flowers, plants and exotic variety of trees. Electric Buggy available with a 1 hr round trip ( at around 2.7k LKR ) that can be booked at the ticket counter. Recommend starting early in the day else there could be wait times for the buggy.

They have this buggy cart service.it was very convinient. Charges are very reasonable. Place is well maintained.But they refused to give a printed map said they are only for foreigners. They have two cafeterias as I saw.We dined in a one and they even serve lunch. Prices are unreasonable though. They charged a 1000+ for a sugary watery mango juice.

Bring a sun umbrella, stock up on water, and go! Minimum 2 hours — maximum the whole day if you want. Lots to see, lots of spots for photos. Tons of monkeys and flying foxes. Overall — super fun!

Why you should visit this elephant orphanage. 1. It’s the only ethical orphanage in Sri Lanka. 2. The staff have respect for the elephants. 3. The elephants have their freedom as you can witnesses them eating, bathing and taking their time. 4. They love bathing and will relax while you scrub them and shower them with water and much love. 5. They do not hurt these elephants or poke them with any sharp objects. 6. You’ll get a yummy home made lunch. 7. You’ll go home feeling happy that you have contributed to their care. 8. Looking back on you hugging and giving kisses to the elephants while they’re relaxed in the water.

What an amazing morning spent with these two lovely ladies! Manike and Kumari are the sweetest elephants and they are clearly loved and well cared for. The staff is wonderful and welcoming. This is the only ethical (read no riding!) sanctuary in Sri Lanka. It's a wonderful way to spend time with elephants in their natural habitat. They have to freedom to move about as they please and seem to genuinely like interacting with people. I can't say enough good things. If you want to see elephants in Sri Lanka, please come here and not the riding places.

My friend and I booked the morning experience and we thoroughly enjoyed it. This is an ethical project where the elephants are treated fairly and justly, which we witnessed first hand. The staff are caring and compassionate towards their elephants, and gave us a great experience, allowing us to feed, walk with and wash the elephants, in an appropriate way to not alarm or disturb the animals' peace. We also got a lovely Sri Lanken lunch afterwards which was tasty and brought us even closer to their amazing culture. This project also strives to raise awareness of the mistreatment of elephants in Sri Lanka. It is a hard watch but a necessary one to make us more aware and to ensure we support places like this which are ethical and fair. I would highly recommend the elephant freedom project to anyone travelling to Sri Lanka, who would like to learn more about their elephants, and make unforgettable memories with these amazing animals.

Well I have no words to how we were treated today! The staff and mahoots were funny, informative, extremely kind and caring. Do yourself a massive favour and go to this proper and genuine elephant orphanage where not only will you be treated like we were today with extreme care and passion with staff and mahoots that care so so much but you’ll see how caring for there two absolutely incredible elephants is done properly and ethically. Thank you for this morning you all and the elephants made our Sri Lanka trip completely worth while. We love you all ❤️

Wow! What an incredible day! Such an intimate experience with the two beautiful elephants! So lovely to see the elephants being treated so well too! This definitely needs to be on your Sri Lankan itinerary! I will never forget this. Thank you so much for having us!

A truly authentic amazing experience where I got to spend the morning with two beautiful elephants what had been rescued from captivity. It was a 4 hour programme that included a delicious Sri Lankan lunch. We fed the elephants, walked with the elephants and then washed them. The pace for the day was set by the elephants. I highly recommend a visit to this sustainable project. Our guide Maduka was so kind to me when I felt unwell. Thank you so much and to the two beautiful elephants Kumari and Manike and their handlers. The bond between them and the elephants was tangible.

Wonderful morning with the 2 elephants at the project, following them around their land and washing them. You can tell the staff all really care for the elephants and believe in what they are doing. Hopefully more projects like this can save all of the captive elephants in Sri Lanka! All staff were extremely friendly and knowledgeable. It was extremely hot so bring sun cream, bug repellent and water shoes! Lunch after was also a delicious, homemade non spicy meal! Car park is opposite and free :)

Lovely experience with an elephant - got to feed, wash and walk with her. The staff seem knowledgeable and to care for the elephants. The elephants are extremely well trained and the staff is expert at taking and creating photo ops. That said some of the conditions seem a little below western animal welfare standards. It does seem like they are making an effort to balance improving conditions while maintaining tourist revenue to help to continue to care for the elephants. They limit rides to a couple minutes for a photo op and offer alternatives such as walking with the elephant to help transition away from rides.

Overall, it was a great experience at the Millennium Elephant Foundation. We enjoyed being close to the elephants, feeding them, and learning about their care and history. The staff were friendly and informative, and the place felt welcoming. However, the elephant ride was not very good – it was extremely short, lasting only about one minute, so it’s not really worth it. Everything else was enjoyable and memorable.

Very dubious about these type of places, as I’m always concerned about the welfare of the animals. They did seem to be genuinely concerned about the elephants, though they had chains on some of them - but they advised this is for the elephants safety as much as anything else. It was fantastic to be able to feed and bathe the elephants though, and experience we won’t forget.

Very disappointing. The place is tiny, with only 4 elephants. The whole “experience” lasted less than 10 minutes – just a quick walk and a wash. Nothing like the big sanctuary they advertise online. The price is way too high (30 USD per person) for such a trivial experience. Honestly, it feels like a tourist trap and not worth the money at all.

I would not recommend this elephant sanctuary. Before entering, there’s a clear sign that says “tipping is optional,” and bear in mind that the entrance fee is already quite high. At first, our guide was great, friendly, informative, and happy to take our pictures. But things took a turn when we asked if we could pay by card for fruits (since they accepted card for the entrance fee). He said we needed cash, then immediately seemed upset we didn’t have any, asking, “How could you come to a place like this without any cash?” I explained that we had just landed a few hours earlier and hadn’t had the chance to get cash yet, but he just brushed me off. From that point on, his attitude completely changed! No more smiles and he clearly wanted us to know he was unhappy. To make matters worse, he went and complained to one of the elephant handlers about us not bringing cash, and they both sighed loudly and made dramatic faces. He even said, “Well, people usually tip the hard-working guides, but you didn’t bring anything.” It completely ruined the experience. What should have been a memorable visit turned into an uncomfortable tour. They may say tipping is optional, but it’s very clear they expect it, and will make you feel horrible if you don’t. This felt like an attempt to take advantage of visitors, and I can’t recommend it.

What an amazing experience. You can walk, Feed and bathe the elephants was amazing and no these elephants ain't chained like some areas. It's all natural

This is one of the best places if you're interested in elephant lifestyles and history. You can visit here and learn about the elephant's way of life.

One of the must see places to visit in Kandy . The lake gives the unique vibe to this ancient city. Nice place to spend time on evening with relaxed atmosphere. Much cleaner compared with other lakes.

One of the finest lake in Sri Lanka. This lake is the heart of the City of Kandy. It’s located center of the city. You can walk beside the lake . It’s so beautiful and clean. Even boat is available in this lake. I will visit this city again inshallah.

The lake is peaceful and calm. There are lots of birds, swans, water animals and fishes in the lake. The walk was quite intense in the heart but nothing too bad. We were able to stroll around the lake in an hour. There is also Joy's Motorboat service if you're interested in taking a boat ride. The lake is situated right bang at Kandy City Centre and Kandy Multiplex, so there's traffic all around the clock. Evenings are peaceful at the lake. Lots of stuff to try out and eat at the lake but be careful while trying food from local street vendors. There are many other fast food joints like Pizza Hut at a stone's throw away. The water is a bit polluted at the ends but nothing too bad. There's also a Queen's bath building at the lake and it was used as a pool during older days. The archaeological team explains the history once you enter the building and you can even watch a more detailed video at an additional cost. The lake is overall a good visit for a peaceful stroll during the evenings or at night

Kandy Lake, also known as Kiri Muhuda or the Sea of Milk, is one of the most iconic landmarks in the heart of Kandy, Sri Lanka. Built in 1807 by King Sri Wickrama Rajasinghe, the lake adds a serene charm to the bustling city. Surrounded by a shaded walking path, it offers a peaceful retreat for locals and visitors alike. The lake is beautifully maintained, and the small island at its center adds to its mystique. Legend says the king used it as a personal garden. Along the walkway, you’ll find benches where you can sit and admire the scenic beauty, while spotting birds, fish, and even occasional water monitors. Kandy Lake is located right next to the famous Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, making it a central point for tourists. Early mornings and late evenings are the best times to visit, as the cool air and soft light create a magical atmosphere. Despite being in the middle of a busy city, the lake feels calm and timeless. It’s an ideal place for a leisurely stroll, quiet reflection, or simply to enjoy nature. Whether you’re exploring Kandy’s cultural treasures or just looking for a peaceful spot, Kandy Lake is definitely worth a visit.

Kandy Lake is one of the most beautiful and peaceful spots in the city, right at the heart of Kandy. Surrounded by lush greenery and traditional Kandyan charm, the lake offers a perfect escape from the busy streets. A leisurely walk along the shaded pathways around the lake is calming, with benches along the way where you can sit, relax, and enjoy the view. The lake is also deeply connected to the city’s culture and history, located just next to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic. The reflection of the temple and surrounding hills on the water, especially during sunrise or sunset, is breathtaking. You’ll also spot birds, fish, and sometimes even turtles, which add to the charm of the place. What I loved most was how the lake feels like the city’s soul—always lively with people walking, couples spending quiet time, and tourists capturing the scenery, yet still maintaining a peaceful atmosphere. In the evenings, the cool breeze and golden light make it an especially magical experience. Overall, Kandy Lake is not just a landmark, but a serene experience that should not be missed. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, photography opportunities, or a quiet moment to take in Kandy’s beauty, this lake will leave you with lasting memories.

Kandy Lake (Sinhala: නුවර වැව), also known as Kiri Muhuda (Sinhala: කිරි මුහුද) or the Sea of Milk, is an artificial lake in the heart of the hill city of Kandy, Sri Lanka, was built in 1807 by King Sri Wickrama Rajasinghe next to the Temple of the Tooth. Over the years, it was reduced in size. It is a protected lake, with fishing banned. Kandy Lake Location - Kandy Coordinates - 7°18′N 80°38′E Type - reservoir Primary inflows - Creek from Ampitiya Primary outflows - Creek leading to Mahaweli River Basin countries - Sri Lanka Built - 1807–1812 Surface area - 19.01 ha (47.0 acres) Max. depth - 18 m (59 ft) Water volume - 867×103 m3 (30.6×106 cu ft) Shore length - 13.4 km (2.1 mi) Surface elevation - 529 m (1,736 ft) Islands - one The lake in front of the Temple of the Tooth was formerly a stretch of paddy fields known as Tigolwela. It was converted to a lake by King Sri Wickrama Rajasinha in 1807. As there had been a pond named Kiri-muhuda (a "sea of milk") in the middle of the Tigolwela, the lake constructed subsequently too was named Kiri-muhuda. Deveda Moolacharya is considered the architect of the Kandy Lake. The king first built a dam across the paddy fields, starting from the Paththirippuwa (octagon) side, where the steps leading into the lake by the Mahamaluwa (Esplanade) are still visible, stretching across to the Poya-maluwa. The dam, upon which a roadway was constructed, allowed the king to go across to the Malwatte Vihare. According to D’Oyley, the dam was constructed between 1810 and 1812. There are numerous local legends and folklore regarding the lake. One such is that the small island at its centre was used by the king's harem for bathing and was connected to the palace by a secret tunnel. The extent of Kandy Lake is 6,544 sq. meters. The circumference is 3.21 km. The greatest depth is 18.5 meters. The parapet wall, giving the appearance of a cloud, is popularly called Walakulu Bemma and measures 633.82 meters. The building located at the centre of the lake, together with some ancient ruins, was known as Diyatilaka Mandapaya in the past. It is believed that the Kings used this pavilion for relaxation. The Kandy Lake offers a place for a stroll or a jog. The shady path surrounding The extent of Kandy Lake is 6,544 sq. meters. The circumference is 3.21 km. The greatest depth is 18.5 meters. The parapet wall, giving the appearance of a cloud, is popularly called Walakulu Bemma and measures 633.82 meters. The building located at the centre of the lake, together with some ancient ruins, was known as Diyatilaka Mandapaya in the past. It is believed that the Kings used this pavilion for relaxation. Diyathilaka Mandapaya Sri Wickrama Rajasinghe built a dam for the purpose of reaching the opposite side of the lake. The king removed the soil from both the palace end and the Malwatte Vihare end, leaving an island behind. At first, this island was used as the Royal Summer House for the Queen and the ladies of the court to relax. The British later used it as an ammunition store and added a fortress-style parapet around its perimeter. Walakula Bamma The lake is surrounded by a wall called Walakulu Bamma (Sinhala: වළාකුළු බැම්ම) or Clouds Wall, which was built to increase the beauty of the Kandy Lake. It extends around half of the lake and took one skilled architect to build it. Sri Wickrama Rajasinghe was unable to complete the wall before the city was captured by the British and he was forced to relinquish the Kandian kingdom. The Walakulu Bamma still lies unfinished. The triangular-shaped holes in the wall were used in the past for lighting oil lamps on festival days. Ulpange Ulpange or Queens Bathing Pavilion is situated partly in the waters of the Kandy Lake. The wives and concubines of Sri Wickrama Rajasinghe used the pavilion when bathing in the lake. After the British captured the city they added another storey and used the building as a library. It is currently used as a police post.

Kandy Lake is absolutely beautiful and well worth a visit if you’re in the area. Right in the heart of the city, it offers a peaceful break from the hustle and bustle. The path around the lake is flat and easy to walk—about 45 minutes at a relaxed pace—making it a great way to soak in some nature without much effort. One of the most fascinating things about the lake is how much wildlife you can spot. We saw monkeys swinging through the trees, huge water monitors (honestly, some of the biggest I’ve ever seen—even bigger than the ones in Thailand!), and all kinds of birds. We spotted pelicans, kingfishers, herons, and this time of year (June), there were tons of baby birds in nests—so sweet to see. One heads-up though: there are large bats (flying foxes) hanging in the trees around the lake. They’re impressive to see, but fair warning—they do poop, and it might land on you if you’re not paying attention, so maybe don’t linger directly under the trees too long! The lake itself was created in 1807 by King Sri Wickrama Rajasinghe, the last king of Sri Lanka, and it’s still a central part of life in Kandy. Right next to it is the famous Temple of the Tooth, so it’s easy to combine the walk with a visit to one of the country’s most important cultural sites. Overall, Kandy Lake is a great spot to relax, take photos, and enjoy Sri Lanka’s rich mix of nature and history. Just keep an eye on the sky!

Place has much more local relevance if you deep dive into history. Great connection with India and how the tooth was brought. Extremely clean and do explore the museums inside because most people skip that. It’s a bit pricey for the location but I guess it all goes into maintenance so worth it.

The Visit to this really shrine is more than a temple. It is very nice to know the history. And also to know how the tooth reached from the Kalinga kingdom to Sri Lanka through ambassadors, the whole place, is laid out very well and very systematically. You have to go through buying the tickets. Handing over your footwear, ensuring the correct dress code is followed. And then The Visit inside the cascade is not seen by us. But the room where it is kept was seen also different offerings of Lars, fruits were kept in front of the room. A lot of footfalls appear to be happening there. And it's a very sacred experience to go through this shrine. It is much more than a temple. And definitely memorable visit. In kandy

The Temple of the Tooth in Kandy is breathtaking! 🏯✨ This sacred Buddhist site is stunning, with intricate carvings and golden embellishments. The atmosphere's serene, and the devotees' devotion is palpable. You can feel the history and significance. Be sure to dress modestly and respect the rules. The temple's a treasure trove of Sri Lankan culture and heritage. Take your time exploring, and soak up the peaceful vibes. A must-visit when in Kandy! 🙏✨ The views of the surrounding area are lovely too. Worth a visit for the history, architecture, and spirituality.

Sri Dalada Maligawa, also known as the Temple of the Tooth, is one of the most sacred places in Sri Lanka. It is located in Kandy and holds the sacred tooth relic of Lord Buddha. The temple has beautiful architecture with golden roofs, carved wooden doors, and peaceful surroundings. Visitors can see traditional rituals and offerings performed daily by monks. The air is filled with the fragrance of flowers and the sound of drums during the ceremonies. It is a calm and spiritual place that shows the deep Buddhist culture and history of the country. A visit here gives a feeling of peace and respect.

If you are in Sri Lanka this is something not to be missed. The most important Buddhist temple. An extraordinary place with a special atmosphere that inspires. Since it is mandatory to take off your shoes if you are not used to it, it would be best to bring some socks because on sunny days the stone slabs and paths through the temple can be very warm. A place for every recommendation. Follow the dress code...long pants, covered shoulders, no short skirts and shorts. Always ask for photography. The rest cannot be described....you have to experience it

The Temple of the Tooth Relic in Kandy is one of Sri Lanka’s most sacred and culturally significant places. Stepping inside feels peaceful and spiritual, with the scent of flowers, traditional drumming, and beautifully carved architecture creating a truly unique atmosphere. The temple complex is rich in history, showcasing centuries of craftsmanship, devotion, and royal heritage.

Visiting Sri Dalada Maligawa was a profoundly moving experience — this isn’t just a temple, it’s Sri Lanka’s beating spiritual heart. The Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic in Kandy holds more than the tooth of the Buddha; it holds centuries of history, tradition, and devotion that still ripple through every ceremony and corridor. From the moment you walk past the majestic Makara Thorana gateway, cross the moat, through the “Walakulu Bamma” (Cloud Wall), you can almost feel the weight of kings who built, preserved, destroyed, and rebuilt this site to protect the relic. The architecture — Kandyan style intricate wood and ivory carving, golden canopies, the sacred chamber that holds the relic in nested golden caskets — is breathtaking.

A unique and memorable experience! In the temple we received a Buddhist blessing with a red mark on the forehead, a beautiful tradition. Donations are appreciated. From the top, you get a picturesque view of the surroundings, which makes the visit even more special. The entrance fee was around 500 rupees per person (as of August 2025).

Small Buddhist temple atop the hill next to the main city. You have to climb a lot of stairs to reach the top of the temple. There is a huge Buddha statue with stairs at the back which gives breathtaking views of the city and the river. There is a small souvinier shop for buying gifts. The view at sunset is very nice. Be careful while climbing during rains as the floor is very slippery

Bahirawakanda Sri Maha Bodhi Viharaya is a hilltop Buddhist temple in Kandy, famous for its giant white Buddha statue that overlooks the entire city. It’s one of the best viewpoints in Kandy—especially beautiful at sunset and night, when the statue is lit up.

Nice place to visit and see the Lord sitting in full glory. Also encountered a foreigner who has similar issues about her guide and we got along well. There is a Hindu temple here as well and the priest does some prayer too for you if you obviously give him some money. The walk up is small but very difficult if it's in the morning. I wore black today and became a good crisp at the end of it. A quick visit here and a souvenir store to buy some blessings based things like tali or necklace is a good option. I picked up three for my family and took some pics. Evening would be a better option as it's too hot in the morning. A ticket is required that costed me 500 LKR and please remember to be clothes fully due to religious sentiments. You will have to remove your shoes before you walk up so be mindful.

Sri Lanka has a lot of interesting places, and this is definitely one of them. You can also climb to the top — the view of the city is amazing. Definitely worth a visit.

Very nice Buddha statue built on top of a hill. The temple is dedicated to Lord Buddha and people come to pray here and perform their austerities. The views of the lake and Kandy are breathtaking.

Sri Maha Bodhi Viharaya is one of those spots where the statue does all the talking. It’s huge, striking and dominates the hillside. The real bonus is that you can climb up behind it, which gives you a surprisingly good view over Kandy without elbowing your way through crowds. One practical note: if the sun’s out, the stone pavement turns into a frying pan. Shoes off is the rule, so unless you fancy cooking your feet medium-rare, keep your socks on. Simple trick that saves you a lot of swearing.

Pinnawala Elephant Orphange is managed by the govt of Sri Lanka and is one of the largest elephant park having hundreds of elephant. The entry fee of LKR 3000 for adultd and LKR 1500 for kids is found to be on a higher side given the small portion of the park which is open for public viewing. There is a feeding point where you can feed fruits to elephants, a viewing deck where you can watch the many elephants together. A souvenier shop is at the exit and you buy lot of stuff there. These elephants are bathed in a reservoir which is across the road and you need to exit the park first. At the reservoir you can watch the elephants cooling down in the water. Please avoid feeding these cute beasts without asking the caretakers. There are many food outlets around, but we did not find any pure veg hotel, nor did we find any jain options. The approach road to the reservoir have many local shopping outlets. Please do visit this place when you are in sri lanka. Avoid visiting private elephant farms which the tour operator might take you, and are at least 3 times expensive.

Such a wonderful place to visit. The elephants are simply amazing and to get up so close and to feed them was the highlight of our visit for my whole family. A fantastic experience which supports the ongoing success of the species.

It was an amazing experience in Sri Lanka. Even the entry fee was little bit high. But it’s worth it. You can enjoy elephant activities . Even you can feed the elephant yourself. Also you can watch them taking shower in the driver . It’s govt operated and this is the best elephant orphanage.

An extraordinary place. There is a section where the elephants are housed and where they are brought to bathe. Those two places are separated by a street with very busy traffic. It is very impressive when they are being led or brought back from swimming through a narrow alley very close to you or across a pedestrian crossing. In agreement with the guide (mahut) you can touch them and walk with him. A small complaint - maybe there should be more benches to rest because it can be very tiring if the humidity is high. Foreigners pay a higher ticket price, 5000 rupees (15 euros). Souvenirs - standardly more expensive in places like this, as everywhere else in the world. An interesting workshop-shop of ecological paper and various paper products. The paper is made by a special process by mixing elephant dung and different grasses. A free friendly guide will explain everything to you. A place for every recommendation.

The Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage is a well-known conservation and breeding ground for wild Asian elephants, located in the village of Pinnawala in Sri Lanka's Sabaragamuwa Province. It's a major tourist attraction and a significant site for elephant welfare. Established in 1975 by the Sri Lanka Department of Wildlife Conservation, the orphanage was initially created to care for orphaned and abandoned wild elephants found in the forests of Sri Lanka. Over the years, it has evolved into a sanctuary where elephants are cared for, rehabilitated, and bred in captivity. Many of the elephants here have been injured or lost their mothers in the wild. The orphanage is set on a 25-acre coconut plantation alongside the Maha Oya river, which provides a natural and picturesque setting for the elephants. Visitors can observe the elephants up close, particularly during their feeding times and their famous daily bath in the river. Watching the elephants interact, play, and spray water on each other in the river is often considered the highlight of a visit. The Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage plays a vital role in elephant conservation by providing a safe haven for these majestic creatures and educating the public about their plight. It's a place where you can witness the gentle giants in a semi-natural environment, learning about their habits and the efforts made to protect them.

I visited this place on last month and I really enjoyed. I loved to see One my favorite animal. This place is great see elephants. Before going to this place visit their website to aware the time table Because unfortunately I missed to see feeding.

Pinnawala is a beautiful place to see elephants up close and enjoy their natural behavior. Watching them bathe and roam freely is an unforgettable experience. A peaceful spot perfect for families and nature lovers.

Got a knowledgeable host at the spice garden to explain about the spices, fruits and their benefits. They have a variety of oils and cream for your use, depends which are beneficial for you and as per your skin tone. They do provide massage which is free , however, it is mandatory to tip them. A small shop at the entrance where you can purchase the products which they explain. Rates are not so reasonable

This spice garden was truly magical. They gave such a beautiful tour. Explain the spices and the kinds of applications you can use them for the restaurant was beautiful. It was a very educational and lovely place to visit.

Amazing experience in this garden! 🌿 I learnt so much about the plants and spices of Sri Lanka. The guides gave us different samples to try, shared lots of fascinating stories, and showed us everything with great detail. I’d definitely recommend coming here with kids, it’s a fun and educational experience for them too. The entrance is free, and after the tour you can visit their shop to buy natural products.

Very valuable place for study about spices. Well maintained garden. Very good guidance. Quality spices & Herbals available here....

I had an unforgettable visit to the Ranweli Spice Garden today. We were shown around the gardens by Tyronne, who was so knowledgeable and friendly - sharing his love of spices with us. The massages were fantastic - I didn’t want it to end! We had lunch onsite overlooking the rice fields and the plantation. The food was absolutely delicious. Special thank you to Binura Anjana for the wonderful service. Thank you for looking after us so well.

On the way to kandy, our driver stopped at this spice garden. The garden tour was great, the staff explained everything and showed us all the tress, plants and its products. It mostly looked natural. After the tour, they give us a tea with a pinch of vanilla extract which tasted great. They also have a huge variety of products in their store which is mostly over priced but you can buy one or two if you wish to.

Nice place where they take you around a small spice garden, explain SriLankan spices its herbal uses etc. of course, they’re selling their products. I heard from my driver, that their products are of good quality. Lots of tourists visiting.

Have a great lunch prepared by the shop owner and tasted great. The curry chicken , potatoes and many other dishes was cooked using their organic spice plants around! The guide was so knowledgeable and tell us about plant that used to cook or medication. Learnt a lot about the the herbs used for medication in Sri Lanka. Only downside was mosquitoes may come after you .. do prepare. Spending 3700 rupees for lunch and some processed spices ..

The most informative cooking class I’ve ever attended! The owner of the place is really hands on when conducting the class and he answered all our questions. On top of that, they also use organic products from their garden to make the dishes. We had an amazing lunch with the dishes we were taught to make! After our cooking class, we did a tour of the spice garden and the staff who did the tour with us was very knowledgeable about all the herbs and plants they grow. We learned a lot!! What’s most important is that at the end of our activities, they never pressured us to buy anything but because they explained the value of their products really well, we got some stuff because we wanted to and not because we felt like we were forced to do so. Great job guys! Keep up the good work!

We had a quick stop at the Euphoria Spice & Herbal for the spice tour on our way to Kandy. It was very interesting. Unfortunately, we do not remember the name of the guide, but he was explaining us in detail and friendly about the spices & plants from Sri Lanka. We learned a lot at our approximately 30 minutes tour and can highly recommend it!

Attended the Spice gardens & cooking class as part of a tour and can honestly say it stands out as a highlight of my time in this beautiful country! These guys really know the in's & out's of the huge variety of spices grown on site and it was such a fun and interactive experience learning from the very best how to cook delicious Sri Lankan food. Shal really got us all involved & made it memorable with a karaoke session at the end!! An absolute must for anyone visiting Sri Lanka.

We had the most wonderful afternoon being taught how to cook delicious Sri Lankan dishes. The herb and spice garden was fascinating and the staff were incredibly helpful and friendly. If anyone is going to Sri Lanka make sure you book in here

Beautiful and Spice experience! My friends and me were so happy to visit this beautiful, colorful and spicy place.. Our guide was so friendly and kind. SUPER Recommended If you come in Sri Lanka and buy some special spices 🇱🇰

Great time ! The tour in the spice garden was awesome. The guide was very knowledgable and very keen in answearing our questions. Lunch was amazing. Our bellies we're so happy 😃😃 Unless other places, all their products are home made from the organic spices they grow. Really good quality.

Yapahuwa Fortress is situated in the Kurunegala District and was once a kingdom of Sri Lanka. The Yapahuwa rock resembles Sigiriya but features a unique symbolic staircase with lion sculptures, which are considered national symbols of Sri Lanka. The main staircase leads to the Temple of the Tooth Relic, and from there you can hike to the top of the rock along a small trail. At the summit, there are ancient ruins, and you can enjoy a 360-degree view of the surrounding area.

I recently visited the Yapahuwa Rock Fortress, and it was truly an unforgettable experience. It's a historical fortress and a military stronghold built in 1272 by the King Buwanekabahu to protect from foreign invaders, astonishing stone stair case with a steep slop make the fortress unique from others. If you're someone who enjoys history, nature, and a bit of adventure, this site has all three. Be prepared, though — there’s quite a bit of climbing involved! The stone steps leading up the rock are steep and long, so comfortable shoes and plenty of water are highly recommended. Water is much needed. About halfway up, the climb becomes somewhat challenging, especially with the wind blowing across the face of the rock. However, the effort is absolutely worth it. Once you reach the top, you’re rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the entire Yapahuwa area. You can even see the Daduru Oya reservoir from up there, which adds to the scenic beauty. At the summit, there’s a small ancient pond and the ruins of an old brick stupa that lately built by the period of Kandian kingdom. The sense of calm and quiet at the top is a stark contrast to the effort it takes to get there. Yapahuwa Rock Fortress is a hidden gem in Sri Lanka — full of history, natural beauty, and adventure. Definitely worth the climb!

Yapahuwa is a breathtaking ancient rock fortress with deep historical roots. Climbing to the top rewards you with stunning views and a peaceful atmosphere. The stone staircase and preserved ruins showcase the artistic brilliance of our ancestors. A must-visit for anyone who loves culture, heritage, and adventure!

A bit of hiking with history! The climb involves number of steps leading to the top. there you can see ancient ruins and scenic views. It gets very hot during the day🥵🥵 so try to go early morning or late afternoon.

Must visit place if your a person interested in learning about Sri Lankan history & culture. It’s a short climb but has very steep steps. Best to wear walking shoes. It’s a place for everyone. Only very few people know and visit this historical location. Also there aren’t many places/ hotels to lodge if you’re visiting this place.

Yapahuwa Rock Fortress is one of Sri Lanka’s lesser-known but most fascinating historical sites. Located between Kurunegala and Anuradhapura, this ancient citadel was briefly the capital of Sri Lanka in the 13th century. Though it is often overlooked compared to Sigiriya, I found Yapahuwa to be equally breathtaking, with its dramatic rock setting, unique architecture, and quiet, off-the-beaten-path charm. The fortress is built around a massive 90-meter-high rock, which rises suddenly from the surrounding plains. The climb begins at the impressive **stone stairway**, one of the most beautiful features of Yapahuwa. The staircase is adorned with intricate carvings of lions, dancers, and floral motifs, showcasing the incredible artistry of medieval Sri Lankan stonework. Climbing up, you can imagine how this fortress once served as a royal palace and stronghold to protect the Sacred Tooth Relic of the Buddha. At the top of the rock, you’ll find the remains of the royal palace complex and enjoy sweeping panoramic views of the countryside. The landscape of lakes, paddy fields, and distant hills makes the climb well worth the effort. Unlike Sigiriya, Yapahuwa is less crowded, which allows you to explore peacefully and take in the atmosphere without distraction. The site also has a small museum near the entrance, where you can see relics, sculptures, and artifacts uncovered from the fortress. These displays give valuable insight into the life and culture of the kingdom during its short but important period of glory. What makes Yapahuwa so special is its combination of history, culture, and natural beauty. It feels like a hidden gem—majestic yet tranquil, ancient yet alive with stories. Practical tips: Wear comfortable shoes for the climb, bring water, and try visiting in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat. The climb is moderately challenging, but the views and history make it truly rewarding. For anyone traveling in Sri Lanka, Yapahuwa Rock Fortress is a must-see if you want to experience a unique piece of history away from the usual tourist trail.

This historic place is worth visiting at least once. If you are fit enough, you should climb the rock. Even though we are senior citizens, we climbed it. The stonework is exceptionally beautiful. On less crowded days, vehicles can be parked inside the premises; otherwise, there is parking outside the temple. There are no decent hotels or restaurants nearby, so it's better to bring some food and water with you.

The Dambulla Royal Cave Temple and Golden Temple is a fascinating historic and religious site worth visiting. Be prepared for a climb — there are over 300 steps to reach the top, and it can get busy with tourists, so an early visit is ideal. As this is a sacred Buddhist site, a modest dress code is enforced: legs must be covered below the knee, and no bare shoulders are allowed. Once you reach the top, you’re rewarded with beautiful panoramic views of the surrounding area. Inside the caves, the statues and wall paintings are remarkably well preserved, showcasing centuries of artistry and devotion. While the majority of the site is dedicated to Buddhist figures, you will also spot a few statues of Hindu gods, adding a unique cultural touch. The Golden Temple at the base is equally striking, with its massive seated Buddha statue welcoming visitors. Overall, it’s a place of spiritual significance, rich history, and stunning craftsmanship — a must-see when in the region.

This is an active place of worship for Buddhist, so be considerate. The temple is under the UNESCO protection. The parking area for accessing the temple is not very obvious to visitors who are coming without a group. You have to buy a ticket at the parking lot and then climb about 200 to 300 stairs to access the cave on top of the mountain. You have to remove your shoes to access the temple. There are monkeys in the area. I have not seen a toilet near the temple, but there is one on the parking lot.

Dambulla Cave Temple — also known as the Golden Temple of Dambulla — is one of Sri Lanka’s most magnificent and best-preserved cave temple complexes. Located in the Central Province of Sri Lanka, about 70 km north of Kandy, this UNESCO World Heritage Site dates back to the 1st century BCE. The temple complex consists of five main caves, each filled with ancient statues and vibrant murals depicting the life of the Buddha and various historical events. Over 150 Buddha statues, along with statues of Sri Lankan kings and Hindu deities like Vishnu and Ganesh. Beautiful murals covering over 2,000 square meters of cave walls and ceilings. The Golden Temple with its massive golden Buddha statue at the base of the rock. Stunning panoramic views of the surrounding countryside from the top of the hill.

This is a quite spectacular set of caves containing stunning images of buddhas, kings and bodhisattvas dating from 500 CE. There is a large modern temple at ground level with a huge golden buddha followed by a fairly steep stair up to the cave entrance. Justifiably the site is on the main tourist trails in Sri Lanka and visitors shouldn't be put off by crowds.

Dambulla Cave Temple To reach the Dambulla Cave Temple, one must climb the majestic Dambulla rock. Within the temple complex lie numerous caves, each adorned with magnificent statues of Lord Buddha. The ceilings are covered in intricate ancient paintings, while the statues themselves date back centuries. This sacred site was created under the patronage of King Walagamba, making it one of Sri Lanka’s most treasured historical monuments.

Visiting the Dambulla Cave Temple was one of the highlights of my trip through Sri Lanka. The site is absolutely breathtaking — a peaceful blend of history, spirituality, and art. The caves are filled with stunning Buddha statues and colorful frescoes that have been preserved for centuries, and it’s incredible to see how well they’ve lasted. The short climb up the hill is totally worth it — not only for the caves themselves but also for the amazing panoramic view from the top. The atmosphere feels calm and sacred, and even with other visitors around, there’s a real sense of tranquility. Make sure to bring some water, remove your shoes before entering the temple, and take your time exploring each cave — every one tells a different story. Highly recommend this place to anyone interested in culture, history, or simply a peaceful moment surrounded by beauty.

Review: Five caves filled with golden Buddhas, calm air, and echoes of ancient faith. Every inch of wall and ceiling tells stories painted centuries ago. It’s like walking through living art. Tips & Tricks: ✅ • 🕒 Go around 8–9 AM before it gets hot. • 👟 Wear easy-to-remove shoes (no footwear inside). • 💧 Bring water — you’ll climb a small hill to reach the top. • 📸 No flash photography — respect the ancient paintings. —————————————————————————— Specialties:🤩my • Five caves filled with golden Buddhas and murals. • Religious and historical treasure trove. • Panoramic view of surrounding farmland. Mind-blowing Facts: 🤯 • Murals cover more than 2,100 square meters of wall space. • The caves have been a place of Buddhist worship for over 2,000 years. • 157 Buddha statues inside, ranging from 1 meter to 15 meters tall.

The Dambulla Royal Cave Temple and Golden Temple is a fascinating historic and religious site worth visiting. Be prepared for a climb — there are over 300 steps to reach the top, and it can get busy with tourists, so an early visit is ideal. As this is a sacred Buddhist site, a modest dress code is enforced: legs must be covered below the knee, and no bare shoulders are allowed. Once you reach the top, you’re rewarded with beautiful panoramic views of the surrounding area. Inside the caves, the statues and wall paintings are remarkably well preserved, showcasing centuries of artistry and devotion. While the majority of the site is dedicated to Buddhist figures, you will also spot a few statues of Hindu gods, adding a unique cultural touch. The Golden Temple at the base is equally striking, with its massive seated Buddha statue welcoming visitors. Overall, it’s a place of spiritual significance, rich history, and stunning craftsmanship — a must-see when in the region.

This is an active place of worship for Buddhist, so be considerate. The temple is under the UNESCO protection. The parking area for accessing the temple is not very obvious to visitors who are coming without a group. You have to buy a ticket at the parking lot and then climb about 200 to 300 stairs to access the cave on top of the mountain. You have to remove your shoes to access the temple. There are monkeys in the area. I have not seen a toilet near the temple, but there is one on the parking lot.

Dambulla Cave Temple — also known as the Golden Temple of Dambulla — is one of Sri Lanka’s most magnificent and best-preserved cave temple complexes. Located in the Central Province of Sri Lanka, about 70 km north of Kandy, this UNESCO World Heritage Site dates back to the 1st century BCE. The temple complex consists of five main caves, each filled with ancient statues and vibrant murals depicting the life of the Buddha and various historical events. Over 150 Buddha statues, along with statues of Sri Lankan kings and Hindu deities like Vishnu and Ganesh. Beautiful murals covering over 2,000 square meters of cave walls and ceilings. The Golden Temple with its massive golden Buddha statue at the base of the rock. Stunning panoramic views of the surrounding countryside from the top of the hill.

This is a quite spectacular set of caves containing stunning images of buddhas, kings and bodhisattvas dating from 500 CE. There is a large modern temple at ground level with a huge golden buddha followed by a fairly steep stair up to the cave entrance. Justifiably the site is on the main tourist trails in Sri Lanka and visitors shouldn't be put off by crowds.

Dambulla Cave Temple To reach the Dambulla Cave Temple, one must climb the majestic Dambulla rock. Within the temple complex lie numerous caves, each adorned with magnificent statues of Lord Buddha. The ceilings are covered in intricate ancient paintings, while the statues themselves date back centuries. This sacred site was created under the patronage of King Walagamba, making it one of Sri Lanka’s most treasured historical monuments.

Visiting the Dambulla Cave Temple was one of the highlights of my trip through Sri Lanka. The site is absolutely breathtaking — a peaceful blend of history, spirituality, and art. The caves are filled with stunning Buddha statues and colorful frescoes that have been preserved for centuries, and it’s incredible to see how well they’ve lasted. The short climb up the hill is totally worth it — not only for the caves themselves but also for the amazing panoramic view from the top. The atmosphere feels calm and sacred, and even with other visitors around, there’s a real sense of tranquility. Make sure to bring some water, remove your shoes before entering the temple, and take your time exploring each cave — every one tells a different story. Highly recommend this place to anyone interested in culture, history, or simply a peaceful moment surrounded by beauty.

Review: Five caves filled with golden Buddhas, calm air, and echoes of ancient faith. Every inch of wall and ceiling tells stories painted centuries ago. It’s like walking through living art. Tips & Tricks: ✅ • 🕒 Go around 8–9 AM before it gets hot. • 👟 Wear easy-to-remove shoes (no footwear inside). • 💧 Bring water — you’ll climb a small hill to reach the top. • 📸 No flash photography — respect the ancient paintings. —————————————————————————— Specialties:🤩my • Five caves filled with golden Buddhas and murals. • Religious and historical treasure trove. • Panoramic view of surrounding farmland. Mind-blowing Facts: 🤯 • Murals cover more than 2,100 square meters of wall space. • The caves have been a place of Buddhist worship for over 2,000 years. • 157 Buddha statues inside, ranging from 1 meter to 15 meters tall.

Amazing sights and great information. It was very expensive though! Parking spots were scarce and there were no roofed shoe racks. It rained, so all our shoes were completely wet unfortunately. Other than that, it was very nice!

The Polonnaruwa Vatadage is an ancient structure dating back to the Kingdom of Polonnaruwa of Sri Lanka. The meaning of Vatadage is 'The Circular Relic House'. It is believed to have been built during the reign of Great King Parakramabahu to hold the Relic of the tooth of the Buddha or during the reign of Nissanka Malla of Polonnaruwa to hold the alms bowl used by the Buddha.

This is one of the structures that are still kept erect in Pollonuwara. Beautiful artistic work or masonry. People were so skilled back then and the skills were being valued unlike now. I would recommend a good two hours for seeing all important locations with a guide who can explain everything! This is a UNESCO site, so it goes without saying that it's a must visit!

Visiting the Vatadageya in Polonnaruwa was an unforgettable experience for my wife and me. The circular structure is simply breathtaking, with its intricately carved stone pillars and statues that reflect the incredible craftsmanship of ancient Sri Lanka. Standing there, surrounded by such history and beauty, gave us a deep sense of connection to the past. You can almost imagine the religious ceremonies that once took place in this sacred space. It’s amazing how well-preserved everything is, allowing visitors to appreciate the attention to detail that went into its creation. If you're visiting Polonnaruwa, the Vatadageya is a must-see gem that takes you back in time.

This historical attraction is worth a visit. Amazing early architecture. Cost was $30US to enter, with the ticket office at the museum. It's a large site so bike hire or tuk tuk is recommended. We got bikes outside for 1000 but they started at 1500rp. There are numerous stalls selling drinks , as well as pesky salesman trying to sell souvenirs. Toilets were clean and located in several areas. If you like history and Ruins this place is for you. The info sheet and signs don't really provide the best info so if you read up before you go you may better appreciate it, or you can hire a guide.

Nice sights Many around close by with souvenur Sellers and other vendors there, worth a visit

One of the most amazing historica sites. An expensive entrance fee ($20) but definitely worth it if you are interested in history and religious monuments. The cost includes the entire ancient city complex and you can buy your ticket at the museum: The ancient city is beautiful and it has plenty of wonderful sites with clear information (translated to English). Be aware you'll need to cover your knees and soldiers if you want to enter any of religious sections. You will also be harassed by the many walking vendors.

The climb is somewhat difficult for a person of average fitness, but absolutely worth it! The view is breathtaking from the top and the grounds are very well maintained. Please be sure to carry your passport in original.

Sigiriya is one of the most beautiful and historic places in Sri Lanka. The ancient rock fortress, surrounded by gardens and ponds, offers a breathtaking view from the top. The climb can be a bit tiring, but it’s totally worth it once you reach the summit. A must-visit for anyone who loves history, nature, and amazing scenery.

Sigiriya- the Lion Rock is a must-visit destination in Sri Lanka for local and overseas visitors. This is my fourth time with my family; we find lots of improved accessibility every time. This time, many changes have been made to the stairs; they are now easier to climb and descend. In the mid-purified drinking water filters have been installed. This is our first time visiting the museum. I encourage everyone to bring their children there whenever they visit Sigiriya.

Really good experience in Sigiriya. Must visit place in Srilanka. Almost 1200 steps and scary experience even steps of the rock are next level. We were 3 so it took 18000/- LKR as entry tickets for rock and museum. Museum also nice must visit this place. While climbing I recommend to carry water bottle and some snacks to have. One you climb the rock breathtaking views from the top, amazing view loved it. Top of the rock swimming pool also there.

Must do activity around Sigiriya, we came in very early 5Am at opening, very good choice to avoid too many people in the stairs. Quite a lot of climbing but we found it less sporty than the Pidurangala. There are some steel stairs suspending in the void, be careful if you have vertigo. View super nice but also the whole site on top with old pools and palace.

Was able to ride a bike from my guest house. Highly recommended to bring a bike in so you can ride the path over to the Buddhist Temple nearby and grab lunch on the main drag. Crowds weren’t too bad when I arrived around 8 AM, but upon leaving around 11 o’clock, the crowds going up the rock or getting worse.

Well worth the early morning hike to see the sunrise. Must do activity if you visit Sigiriya.

We went there for sunrise, started at the bottom around 5.15am but maybe starting a little earlier would even be better. It's a beautiful hike, starting with stairs, but the higher you get the rougher the territory. At the end, you have to climb big rocks, so should be kind of fit and not afraid of free climbing a little bit - still doable for beginners! And the view is fantastic!

I was truly amazed by how it blends history, spirituality, and adventure all in one place. It’s more than just a hike — it’s a journey through time, and what makes it unforgettable is the breathtaking view of Sigiriya Rock from the top. 🏯 History and Culture Pidurangala was once an ancient Buddhist monastery dating back to the 1st or 2nd century BC. It became especially important in the 5th century AD when King Kashyapa moved monks here after turning Sigiriya into his royal fortress. Along the way, I came across ancient caves, a stupa, and a massive reclining Buddha statue, all of which added a deep spiritual feel to the climb. 🥾 The Hike Itself The hike took me around 30 minutes — the first half was steps, and the second half involved a bit of bouldering and scrambling to reach the top. It was slightly challenging but definitely fun and rewarding. Since the trail starts inside an active temple, I had to remove my shoes and dress modestly, covering my shoulders and knees. I went early for sunrise, and it turned out to be the highlight of my trip. Watching the golden light touch Sigiriya Rock from Pidurangala’s summit, surrounded by misty forests, was simply magical — a view that stays with you long after you leave. 💰 Why I Recommend It For just 500–1000 LKR ($3–$6), it’s a great value — quieter, cheaper, and less touristy than Sigiriya. Many people say it offers the best view in Sri Lanka, and after seeing it myself, I completely agree. If you have the time, I highly recommend doing both Sigiriya and Pidurangala — one for its rich history and royal ruins, and the other for its stunning natural views and adventurous spirit. Together, they perfectly capture the beauty and depth of Sri Lanka.

Great morning workout with Pidurangala.Pidurangala is a hidden gem that offers one of the most stunning panoramic views of Sigiriya and the surrounding countryside. The hike is adventurous, with a mix of rocky paths and peaceful forest trails leading to the top. The sunrise and sunset views are absolutely breathtaking, making the climb truly rewarding. It’s less crowded than Sigiriya, giving a more peaceful and natural experience. Pidurangala is perfect for nature lovers and those seeking both adventure and serenity in Sri Lanka.

Very nice place, take good shoes, best hike shoes. Do not forget water. We went on sunset, really good but difficult to have the sun and lion rock at the same time. The climb is a bit sporty, "stairs" are non even rocks so more difficult than the climb of lion rock. Beware the monkey’s, do not feed them or you will have the on your back.

Pidurangala Rock Pidurangala is another ancient site of great cultural and spiritual significance. At the base of the rock lies a temple that continues to house monks to this day. The climb rewards visitors with panoramic views, particularly at sunrise, when Sigiriya rock can be seen in all its glory. Along the ascent, one encounters a striking brick statue of Lord Buddha, a testament to the artistry and devotion of the past

Visiting Sigiriya Lion Rock was truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and having an official tour guide made it even more special. From the moment we arrived, our guide shared fascinating stories about the ancient rock fortress, its history, architecture, and the legends surrounding King Kashyapa. As we climbed step by step, he patiently explained the meaning behind the frescoes, the mirror wall, and the water gardens, allowing us to see beyond the stones and truly understand the culture and heritage of Sri Lanka. What impressed me most was his professionalism and passion. He knew the best viewpoints for photos, managed the time perfectly to avoid crowds, and always ensured we felt safe and comfortable throughout the climb. His storytelling turned the journey into a vivid history lesson filled with life and imagination. Standing at the summit, overlooking the breathtaking 360-degree view, I felt grateful not only for the beauty of Sigiriya but also for the knowledge and hospitality of our guide. This experience was far more enriching than just a sightseeing trip—it was a journey into Sri Lanka’s soul. Highly recommended for anyone visiting Sigiriya!

My favorite place in Srii Lanka so far!! Amazing… come prepared for a short walk to the top of the rock, took me 20-30min to get there! The sunrise is a must see!

A Majestic Masterpiece of Ancient Sri Lanka Visiting the Avukana Buddha Statue was a truly breathtaking experience. This colossal standing Buddha, carved out of a single granite rock, is a testament to the incredible craftsmanship of ancient Sri Lankan artisans. The serene expression, detailed robe, and perfect balance of the statue show just how advanced the skills were at the time. The site is peaceful and well-maintained, surrounded by nature, adding to the spiritual atmosphere. It’s a perfect place to reflect, take in some history, and admire the cultural heritage of Sri Lanka. I highly recommend this spot to anyone interested in history, art, or spirituality. A must-visit if you're near Anuradhapura or Dambulla!

The Avukana Buddha Statue is one of the most impressive sights to visit in Sri Lanka. This massive stone Buddha, standing over 40 feet tall, was carved out of a single rock more than 1,500 years ago—and it’s still in incredible condition today. The details are stunning, from the calm expression on the face to the delicate folds of the robe. You can really feel the peaceful atmosphere as soon as you arrive. The area around the statue is quiet and surrounded by greenery, making it a relaxing place to walk around and take photos. It’s not as crowded as some of the bigger tourist spots, so you get plenty of time to enjoy the site at your own pace. There are also a few ruins nearby that give you a glimpse into the history of the old monastery that once stood here. I recommend visiting in the morning or late afternoon when it’s cooler, as there isn’t much shade during midday. The entrance fee is very reasonable, and the caretakers are friendly. While there aren’t many facilities, the site is clean and well looked after. A must-visit if you’re exploring cultural and historical highlights of Sri Lanka!

The Awkana Buddha Statue is truly a masterpiece of ancient Sri Lankan art and craftsmanship. Standing at over 40 feet tall, this remarkable stone carving from the 5th century is one of the most impressive Buddha statues in the country. The detailing of the robe and the serene facial expression reflect the incredible skill of the artisans from centuries ago. The surroundings are calm and peaceful, making it a wonderful place for both spiritual reflection and cultural exploration. It’s less crowded compared to other historical sites, so you can really take your time to appreciate the statue and the tranquil environment. The site is well-maintained and easily accessible, with parking available nearby. Morning visits are especially beautiful, as the soft light enhances the magnificence of the statue. Don’t forget to wear modest clothing as this is a sacred site. Overall, a must-visit landmark in Sri Lanka for anyone interested in history, culture, or spirituality. The Awkana Buddha Statue is not just a monument—it’s an unforgettable experience.

This sacred site, believed to have been commissioned by King Dhatusena, showcases the pinnacle of Sinhalese rock sculpture, with intricate details that highlight the flowing robe, graceful posture, and the gentle expression of enlightenment. At dawn, the first rays of sunlight illuminate the statue, creating a breathtaking spectacle that enhances its spiritual aura. Located near the serene Kala Wewa reservoir, the temple complex offers a peaceful retreat for meditation and reflection. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a spiritual seeker, or an admirer of ancient art, Aukana Raja Maha Vihara promises an awe-inspiring journey into Sri Lanka’s rich Buddhist heritage.

🗿 Aukana Buddha Statue Information * 📍 Location: It is located in the Anuradhapura District of Sri Lanka, near the Kalawewa tank. * 📐 Height: It is considered the tallest ancient standing Buddha statue in Sri Lanka. Its height, from the pedestal (Padmasana) to the Siraspata (Flame of Wisdom), is approximately 11.36 meters (38 feet 10 inches). * ⛏️ Construction: * It is carved from a single large granite rock (monolith). * A unique feature is that the statue remains attached to the main rock face by a narrow strip of rock at the back. * It is created in the Samabhanga posture (equally bent), depicting the figure standing straight with the body weight distributed evenly on both feet. * 🙏 Mudras (Hand Gestures): * The raised right hand displays the Abhaya Mudra (blessing/fearlessness). * The left hand holds the robe in the Katakahasta Mudra (a posture where the hand is clenched, often used to hold something). * 👑 History: * It is believed to have been built by King Dhatusena in the 5th century CE. (However, some sources suggest it belongs to the 12th or 13th century). * It is considered a creation belonging to the Abhayagiri art tradition. * ✨ Special Features: * There is a folk tale regarding the statue's precision: it is said that a drop of water (rainwater) falling from the tip of the statue's nose will land directly in the small depression between the great toes of the feet. * The name "Aukana" means "sun eating" or "looking at the sun", and the time when the morning sun's rays fall upon the statue is considered the best time to view it.

The Aukana Buddha Statue is truly one of the most awe-inspiring sights in Sri Lanka. Standing at over 40 feet tall and carved from a single granite rock, this ancient statue is a stunning example of Sri Lankan stone sculpture and spiritual devotion. Believed to have been created during the 5th century under King Dhatusena’s reign, the statue remains incredibly well-preserved and continues to inspire visitors from around the world. What makes the Aukana Buddha so special is the perfect balance of grace, detail, and scale. The serene expression on the Buddha’s face and the flowing lines of the robe carved into solid rock are masterpieces of ancient craftsmanship. The statue is not just a work of art—it exudes peace, stillness, and spiritual strength. Set against the backdrop of the blue sky and surrounded by nature, the site has a peaceful, almost sacred atmosphere. It’s a place where you can pause, reflect, and feel connected to something timeless. Whether you’re interested in history, religion, or simply want to witness one of Sri Lanka’s greatest cultural treasures, the Aukana Buddha Statue is a must-see. It’s a humbling experience that stays with you long after you leave. Absolutely worth the visit!

A timeless masterpiece of Sri Lanka’s heritage The Aukana Buddha Statue is one of the most breathtaking and inspiring historical sites I have ever visited. Standing at about 12 meters in height, this ancient granite masterpiece is carved directly into a rock face and is believed to date back to the 5th century during the reign of King Dhatusena. Even after more than a thousand years, the statue still feels alive with its perfect proportions, serene facial expression, and extraordinary craftsmanship. The Buddha is depicted in a standing posture with the right hand raised in blessing, a gesture symbolizing protection and reassurance. The robe is carved with such delicate detail that you can see the folds falling naturally across the body, which shows the incredible skill of the sculptors of that era. The artistry here is beyond words—every curve, line, and proportion feels both majestic and peaceful at the same time. What makes this site even more special is the setting. The statue faces the Kala Wewa reservoir, and if you visit in the early morning, the rising sun illuminates the face of the Buddha in golden light. The atmosphere at that time is truly magical—you feel a deep sense of calm and devotion just standing there. Many people say that if a raindrop falls from the tip of the statue’s nose, it lands perfectly between the toes, showing the genius of the ancient builders. Visiting the site is very easy, with parking nearby and a short climb to reach the statue. It is still an active place of worship, so please remember to dress modestly and behave respectfully. There are small shrines and places where locals bring offerings, and it’s beautiful to see that this ancient monument is still part of living culture and faith. What I loved most was the quietness of the place compared to more crowded tourist attractions. It’s not overly commercialized, so you can really take your time to admire the details, sit peacefully, and reflect. The silence, the breeze from Kala Wewa, and the towering Buddha together create an unforgettable spiritual experience. If you are traveling around the Anuradhapura or Dambulla area, I highly recommend making the trip to Aukana. It’s not just a historical site—it’s a journey into Sri Lanka’s deep Buddhist heritage and a reminder of the timeless artistry and devotion of our ancestors. A place that leaves both your eyes and heart full of peace. 🌿🙏✨