Ella Spice Garden: Explore Sri Lanka’s Spices and Culinary Traditions

Ella Spice Garden and its buildings

If you’re visiting Ella, don’t miss the chance to explore the Ella Spice Garden. This enchanting place is perfect for anyone curious about Sri Lankan spices and their role in the country’s famous cuisine. Located just a short distance from Ella town, this garden offers a hands-on experience with spices like cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, and nutmeg.

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What to Expect at Ella Spice Garden

The moment you enter the Ella Spice Garden, you’ll notice the refreshing scents of spices all around you. A knowledgeable guide will take you on a tour, showing how these spices are grown and explaining their uses in traditional Sri Lankan cooking.

Each stop in the garden reveals interesting details about the spices. You’ll learn how cinnamon is harvested, how cardamom is dried, and how nutmeg is used to enhance both sweet and savory dishes.

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Try a Cooking Class

One of the most exciting parts of visiting Ella Spice Garden is the cooking class. After learning about the spices, you can join a hands-on session where you’ll use fresh ingredients to make authentic Sri Lankan dishes.

Experienced chefs guide you through the steps to create curries, sambals, and other traditional recipes. You’ll also learn how to balance flavors using the spices you’ve just seen growing in the garden.

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Enjoy the Meal

After the cooking session, it’s time to enjoy the meal you’ve prepared. The dishes are full of bold flavors, and the experience of eating them in such a peaceful setting makes it even better. Sri Lankan hospitality shines through, making this meal unforgettable.

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Why Visit Ella Spice Garden?

Here are the top reasons to visit Ella Spice Garden:

  • Spice Tour: Explore a variety of spices and learn how they are cultivated.
  • Cooking Class: Learn to cook Sri Lankan dishes using fresh ingredients.
  • Local Cuisine: Enjoy a delicious meal after your cooking session.
  • Cultural Experience: Get a deeper understanding of Sri Lankan food and traditions.

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How to Get There

The Ella Spice Garden is just 2.2 kilometers from Ella town. You can take a tuk-tuk, taxi, or enjoy a 30-minute walk through the scenic countryside to reach it.

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Tips for Your Visit

  • Opening Hours: The garden is open daily from 5:00 AM to 8:00 PM.
  • Book in Advance: Reserve your spot for cooking classes, especially during peak travel seasons.
  • Bring a Camera: Capture the beautiful garden and your cooking moments.
  • Shop for Spices: Don’t forget to buy fresh spices to take home.

 

Visiting the Ella Spice Garden is an unforgettable experience. It’s not just about spices; it’s about connecting with Sri Lankan culture, learning something new, and enjoying delicious food. Whether you’re a foodie or just love unique adventures, this garden is a must-visit spot in Ella.

If you are someone who love to explore Ella with Mahaweli Tours, so, we suggest you refer our Ella City Single Day Tour.

 

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(Cover image credit should go to the original owner and we were taken it on Tripadvisor) 

Viharamahadevi Park in Colombo

Viharamahadevi Park in Colombo

Nestled in the heart of Colombo, Sri Lanka, Viharamahadevi Park stands as a serene oasis amidst the bustling cityscape. As the oldest and largest park in Colombo, it offers a welcome retreat for locals and tourists alike, providing a tranquil space to unwind and reconnect with nature.

At the heart of the park lies a picturesque lake, its shimmering waters reflecting the surrounding greenery and creating a soothing ambiance. Visitors can stroll along the lake’s edge, taking in the serene views and perhaps pausing to feed the resident ducks and swans.

One of the park’s most iconic features is a majestic Buddha statue, its serene countenance evoking a sense of peace and tranquility. Set against the backdrop of lush greenery, the statue serves as a focal point for contemplation and reflection.

For families with children, the park offers a dedicated play area where little ones can run, climb, and explore to their heart’s content. From swings and slides to jungle gyms and merry-go-rounds, there’s plenty to keep the younger visitors entertained for hours on end.

Viharamahadevi Park also provides ample space for leisurely strolls and invigorating jogs, with paved pathways winding through verdant gardens and shady groves. Whether you’re looking to stretch your legs or simply bask in the beauty of nature, the park offers the perfect setting for outdoor recreation.

As you explore Viharamahadevi Park, be sure to heed a few practical tips for a memorable visit. The park is open daily from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM, offering ample opportunity to soak in its natural beauty. Remember to dress modestly and wear sunscreen to protect yourself from the tropical sun.

While there are a few shops nearby where you can purchase snacks and refreshments, it’s always a good idea to bring along your own supplies for a leisurely picnic amidst the park’s idyllic surroundings. And if you prefer not to walk, you can easily reach the park from Colombo Fort via public transport or by taking a quick tuk-tuk ride.

Whether you’re seeking a peaceful escape from the city or simply looking to enjoy some quality time with loved ones, Viharamahadevi Park offers a blissful retreat where you can relax, recharge, and reconnect with the beauty of nature. You should note that the Viharamadevi Park is one of the places which included in our Colombo City Tour Package.

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(Cover Image Credit should goes to the original owners)

Soaring into Paradise: Discovering the Splendors of Hambantota Bird Park

Hambanthota Birds Park

Nestled within the verdant landscapes of Hambantota, Sri Lanka, the Hambantota Bird Park stands as a sanctuary for avian enthusiasts and nature lovers. Spanning an expansive 50 acres, this avian haven is not just the largest bird park in South Asia; it’s a vibrant tapestry of color, melody, and captivating avian life.

 

A Symphony of Nature:

Step into the Hambantota Bird Park, and you’re greeted with a symphony of chirps and whistles. The park is home to over 3,200 birds, representing 180 species, each adding its unique note to the harmonious melody that fills the air. Lush aviaries meticulously recreate the natural habitats of various bird species, providing visitors with a rare opportunity to witness them in settings that mirror the wild.

 

Avian Marvels Across Exhibits:

Explore the Rainforest Aviary, where toucans, parakeets, and hornbills coexist in a vibrant tapestry. Wander through the African Savannah Aviary, where ostriches share the plains with zebras, and a kaleidoscope of African songbirds adds to the enchantment. The Walk-Through Aviary beckons with its colorful finches and playful lorikeets, creating an immersive experience that brings visitors closer to the feathered residents.

 

Beyond the Aviaries:

The Hambantota Bird Park offers more than just aviaries. Guided boat tours glide through a picturesque lake, where black swans paddle alongside ducks, and herons stand sentinel. Tram rides provide a unique vantage point, allowing visitors to observe the birds from high among the trees, adding an extra layer of adventure to the experience.

 

Educational Programs and Conservation Initiatives:

Delve into the park’s educational programs to gain insights into avian behavior, conservation efforts, and the delicate balance of ecosystems. Learn about the vital role birds play in the environment and discover how human actions can impact their survival. The park’s commitment to conservation is further evident through its research center, dedicated to the breeding and conservation of endangered bird species.

 

Dining Amidst Nature:

The Birds Resort, a luxurious eco-resort within the park, provides the perfect setting for a delightful meal. Savor exquisite cuisine against the breathtaking backdrop of the aviaries, letting the soothing sounds of nature elevate your dining experience.

 

Visitor Information and Rates:

For those eager to explore, the Hambantota Bird Park is conveniently located near the Hambantota International Airport, making it an ideal day trip for travelers. Rates for locals and foreigners are accommodating, ensuring that the enchanting experience is accessible to all.

 

Parrot Paradise:

The park’s collection of parrots takes center stage in the Parrot Paradise, showcasing some of the world’s most unique parrots. Known for their acrobatic acts and mimicry skills, these parrots add an extra layer of fascination to the park’s diverse avian population.

 

How to Get There: If coming from Colombo, take the Southern Highway to Magampura Highway Exit. From Katuwewa Junction, turn left, and follow the signs for 7 km to reach the Birds Research Center & Resort.

 

Plan Your Visit:

  • Local Rates:
    • Age 3 to 10 yrs: LKR 500.00
    • Adults: LKR 1000.00
  • Foreigner Rates:
    • Age 3 to 10 yrs: LKR 1000.00
    • Adults: LKR 2000.00

 

Location Details:

  • Birds Park / Birds Research Center, Nagara Lake, Hambantota
  • Phone: +94 47 493 7111
  • Mobile: +94 77 496 8616
  • Email: contact@birdspark.lk

 

Opening Hours: Open daily (Weekdays and Weekends) from 6.00 am to 6.00 pm.

 

In essence, Hambantota Bird Park invites you to a world where nature’s symphony takes flight, and every corner reveals the magic of Sri Lanka’s diverse birdlife. Unleash your sense of wonder, spread your wings, and prepare for an unforgettable adventure in this avian paradise.

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(Cover Image Credit: Zamil Hussain from FB)

Exploring Beddagana Wetland Park: A Peaceful Getaway in Colombo

Tucked away near Colombo, Beddagana Wetland Park is like a quiet nature retreat amidst the city buzz. It’s super easy to get to, making it a great spot for everyone who wants a break from the city rush. Let’s dive into why this park is special and why you should think about paying it a visit.

 

Where It’s At:

Beddagana Wetland Park is close to Colombo, making it easy to reach for both locals and visitors. You’ll find it in Beddagana, a suburb in the capital of Sri Lanka. No matter if you’re in Colombo or nearby, getting to this natural hideaway is a piece of cake.

 

What’s Inside:

Picture a place with lots of greenery, ponds, and walking paths – that’s Beddagana Wetland Park. It’s a mix of plants and animals, creating a beautiful setting for a relaxed walk or just some quiet time. The paths take you through the wetlands, letting you soak in the beauty of nature.

 

Why Check It Out:

  1. Nature Views: Beddagana Wetland Park gives you awesome views of wetlands and ponds. It’s like a nature break without leaving the city.
  2. Bird Watching: If you’re into watching birds, this park is a hotspot. There are lots of different bird types hanging out in the wetlands. Bring your binoculars and camera for some cool bird snapshots.
  3. Learn Something New: The park has signs along the paths that teach you about the importance of wetlands. It’s like a little lesson in why nature matters.
  4. Chill Out: Whether you want a quiet place to think or a family spot for the weekend, Beddagana Wetland Park is perfect for relaxing and having some fun.

 

Tips for Your Visit:

  • Best Times: Mornings and late afternoons are the best times to visit when the park is buzzing with nature sounds.
  • Dress Comfortable: Wear comfy clothes and good shoes for walking around. You’ll want to explore all the trails.
  • Bring the Basics: Don’t forget things like sunscreen, a hat, and bug spray. And keep a water bottle handy to stay refreshed.

 

Taking Care of Nature:

Beddagana Wetland Park isn’t just a pretty place; it’s also working to keep nature safe in the city. The park’s efforts help take care of the environment, showing how cities can grow while keeping nature in mind.

 

Wrap-Up:

Beddagana Wetland Park invites you to take a break from the city and enjoy some peace in nature. Whether you love nature, watching birds, or just want a quiet spot, this park in Colombo is waiting for you. Plan a visit to Beddagana Wetland Park and soak in the calm vibes of this nature escape.

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(Cover Image Credit: Kalpa Lakjith )

Seethawaka Botanical Garden in Avissawella

Seethawaka Botanical Garden in Wet Zone

Seethawaka Botanical Garden is one of the five botanical gardens in Sri Lanka. It is a 42-hectare (106-acre) garden that is situated near the Avissawella of the western province. The place is booming and is a favorite of most travelers who love nature and the calm environment of Sri Lanka.

 

Location

Seethawaka Botanical Garden is situated in the Colombo district of the Western Province. It is 45km away from the capital, Colombo, which takes 90 minutes to reach. But it is very close to Avissawella, where you only need to drive 8km.

Here you can see the Google Map location of the destination:

 

To reach this beautiful garden, you must drive through the Puwakpitiya-Thummodara route until you reach the Illukowita village. Then you can easily find the directions to the garden. It is also adjacent to the Indikada Mukalana Forest Reserve.

 

More about Seethawaka Botanical Garden

Somebody called this garden ‘Seethawaka Wet Zone Botanical Garden’. In here, you can see many plant species from the wet zone of the country. The garden is also somewhat similar to the ‘Peradeniya Botanical Garden. A cool and calm place where you can further observe well-maintained landscaping.

The garden consists of a rose garden, a fernery, a lovely viewpoint, a series of ponds, a medicinal garden, a spice garden, an orchid garden, a butterfly garden, a Japanese garden, and a pebble garden. Here, you have a large area to walk. For that, you can hire a golf cart. But it’s better to walk the entire park on foot while enjoying nature.

A beautiful stream flows through the garden, where it has made an artificial lake. If you wish, then you can hire a swan boat to paddle throughout that man-made lake. In the center of the garden, there is a lovely viewpoint. You can view a beautiful picture of the park and the surrounding areas from there.

 

Flora

As we mentioned earlier, you can observe many varieties of wet zone plant species in the Seethawaka Botanical Garden. The area was initially a land of both tea and rubber cultivation in the 20th century. Then it transformed into research and conservation for the wet zone flora of Sri Lanka. The threatened and vulnerable endemic plant species have been exported to the area from the Sinharaja Rain Forest, and then it has been conserved to grow and protect those plant species.

Established in 2014, the garden is currently managed by the Department of National Botanical Gardens of Sri Lanka. Here you can observe gorgeous trees, including many bamboo trees. However, you cannot see many flower types in other botanical gardens in Sri Lanka.

 

Tickets

You need to buy a ticket to enter the Seethawaka Botanical Garden. The ticket price for local adults is 100 rupees. But it is 3000 rupees for foreign adults and 1500 rupees for foreign children. The tickets are issued at the main entrance before entering the park.

 

Opening Days and Opening Hours

The garden is open the whole year. But most believe mornings and evenings are the perfect time to visit this beautiful garden.

Opening hours of the day: from 7.30 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Ticketing Hours: from 7.30 p.m. to 5 p.m.

 

Facilities of the Seethawaka Botanical Garden

There are good sanitation facilities available in the Seethawaka Botanical Garden. A shop is situated inside the garden, which is not far from the main gate. You can buy food and other necessities from that shop. Water taps and leisure areas are also available for visitors. The garden is also a fantastic spot for photoshoots. It is also open for shooting a music video or a film.

 

Conclusion

Seethawaka Botanical Garden is a fabulous spot for nature lovers. Anyone can visit this lovely park, forgetting all the stress and urban life. We can recommend this park for a half-day tour, which you can visit if you are visiting or crossing the Avissawella area.

 

Other Nearby Travel Destinations in the Region:

  • Aanmudu Ella Falls
  • Kumari Ella Falls

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( Seethawaka Garden Cover Image Credit: Motionflix Photography from Facebook)

 

National Spice Garden in Matale

Entrance of the Matale Spice Garden

The National Spice Garden, or something called Matale Spice Garden, is a nice place to visit in the Matale region of Sri Lanka. It covers more than 20 hectares of land. Here you can observe the wide range of spices that are being cultivated in Sri Lanka.

 

Location

Matale Spice Garden is situated 142km from Colombo and 25km from Kandy. It is 4km away from Matale City, and you need to drive the Madulkelle-Kabaragala road to reach the destination. You can come across this either if you are traveling from Kandy to Sigiriya or from Sigiriya to Kandy.

Here is the Google Maps location of the Matale Spice Garden:

 

Physical Address: National Spice Garden, Central Research Station, Matale, Sri Lanka

 

Spices

You can observe more than 15 spices in the Matale Spice Garden, including pepper, nutmeg, clove, cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, etc. As well, you can observe beetles and cocoa cultivations here. The resource persons will explain how these spices are cultivated, grown, harvested, and processed. You can apply that knowledge to start your own spice cultivation in your garden. The place is open to all locals and foreigners without charge. It offers guided tours for foreigners.

In the 15th–19th centuries, Sri Lanka was a world-renowned destination for spices. This has given the Europeans a compelling reason to seize this island. Matale is one of the best places on the island to cultivate most of the Sri Lankan spices.

 

Other Facts about Matale Spice Garden

The place is managed by the Department of Export Agriculture Sri Lanka, and the premises include an information center, a library, a sales center, and a conference hall. You can get all the information you need about technical advice, cultivation methods, harvesting, and value addition from their information center. In the library, you can browse many publications, including books and brochures. A sales center is a place where you can buy spice-related products for a reasonable price. Here, you have plenty of traditional remedies, cosmetic items, and much more to buy.

Tourists can also experience a free Ayurvedic body massage. You should note that spices and Ayurveda have a very close relationship. These spices are very friendly to your health. You are lucky in Sri Lanka because you can experience the taste of the spices with most of the Sri Lankan dishes.

 

Opening Times of Matale Spice Garden

Matale Spice Garden is open all days of the week. But it is open from 8.30 a.m. to 4 p.m. on a normal day, while it is open all Sundays. There is no need to make pre-bookings, and it is open to all. If you have any further information, then you can easily dial the number below:

National Spice Garden Contact Number: 0662 222 945

 

Conclusion

There are many spice gardens in the Matale and Kandy areas. Ranweli Spice Garden is also another place where you can explore Sri Lankan spices. It is also situated close to Matale.

So, finally, we request that you visit this beautiful and significant place if you are touring both the Matale and Kandy areas.

 

Other beautiful places to visit in Matale:

  • Aluviharaya Temple
  • Nalanda Gedige Temple
  • Matale Hindu Temple

Jeffery Bawa’s Lunuganga Garden: A Marvel of Architectural Brilliance

Jeffery Bawa, a renowned Sri Lankan architect, is famous for his innovative style that combines Western modernism with traditional Asian elements. One of his remarkable achievements is the Lunuganga Garden, a stunning oasis of art and nature located near Bentota, Sri Lanka.

Born in 1919 in British Ceylon (now Sri Lanka), Jeffery Bawa initially studied law but later found his true calling in architecture. He attended the Architectural Association School in London, where he was exposed to different architectural styles that would shape his future work. Bawa’s unique style emerged from his deep understanding of local traditions and passion for creating harmonious spaces that blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings.

Bawa’s architectural portfolio includes several iconic projects. The Sri Lankan Parliament Building, the Kandalama Hotel, and the Heritance Kandalama Hotel. These structures showcase his ability to combine functionality and aesthetics while respecting the natural environment.

Situated near Bentota, the Lunuganga Garden is a captivating creation that reflects Bawa’s architectural brilliance. The garden was an experimental canvas for Bawa to explore his ideas and nurture his design passion. Over four decades, he developed this sanctuary by integrating water features, sculptures, pavilions, and lush greenery, creating a tranquil and harmonious ambiance.

Lunuganga Garden showcases Bawa’s mastery of architectural principles, including the use of symmetrical and asymmetrical forms, contrasting textures, and strategic placement of structures. Visitors can explore various elements of the garden, such as the terrace inspired by Italian design, the serene Lotus Pond, and the magnificent Water Garden. Each area offers a unique experience, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the captivating beauty of Bawa’s artistic vision.

Today, Lunuganga Garden is home to the Lunuganga Country Estate, a cozy hotel that allows guests to experience Bawa’s masterpiece up close. The hotel provides a peaceful and intimate atmosphere, enabling visitors to stay amidst the garden’s enchanting beauty. Guests can relax in well-designed rooms and suites, savor delicious cuisine, and explore the meticulously maintained gardens.

Visitors are drawn to Lunuganga Garden not only for its architectural splendor but also for the opportunity to witness the legacy of one of Asia’s most celebrated architects. The garden’s serene ambiance, breathtaking views, and timeless design captivate the imagination, providing an inspiring and rejuvenating experience.

Jeffery Bawa’s Lunuganga Garden stands as a testament to his exceptional talent and creative vision. This remarkable oasis showcases the harmonious relationship between architecture and nature, inspiring visitors from around the world. As a living masterpiece, Lunuganga Garden showcases Bawa’s architectural genius and leaves an indelible mark on the world of design.

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(Cover Image Credi Goes to the original owner. Image Souce: Unseen Sri Lanka)

Peradeniya Botanical Garden

Peradeniya Botanical Garden in Sri Lanka

Peradeniya Botanical Garden is one of the most popular attractions in Sri Lanka. Located on the outskirts of the city of Kandy, this beautiful garden is known for its diverse collection of plants and its serene ambiance. Spread across an area of 147 acres, the garden is a paradise for nature lovers, horticulturists, and anyone who wants to spend some time amidst nature’s bounty.

History of Peradeniya Botanical Garden

Peradeniya Botanical Garden was established in 1821 by the British colonial rulers who wanted to experiment with exotic plants such as rubber, coffee, and tea, that could be grown in Sri Lanka. The garden was initially used as a research center for these plants, and it gradually expanded to become a public garden. Today, the garden is managed by the Department of National Botanic Gardens of Sri Lanka and attracts over 2 million visitors annually.

Flora and Fauna

Peradeniya Botanical Garden is home to over 4000 species of plants, including orchids, palms, ferns, and medicinal plants. The garden is divided into different sections, each showcasing different types of flora. The most popular sections include the Palm Avenue, the Giant Bamboo Grove, the Spice Garden, the Orchid House, and the Royal Botanical Collection. Visitors can spend hours exploring the garden and admiring the beautiful flowers and plants.

Apart from plants, the garden is also home to a variety of fauna. Visitors can spot various species of birds, butterflies, and monkeys, which add to the garden’s natural beauty.

Attractions

Peradeniya Botanical Garden has several attractions that visitors should not miss. One of the most popular attractions is the Orchid House, which houses over 300 varieties of orchids. The orchids are displayed in a range of colors, shapes, and sizes, making it a feast for the eyes.

Another must-visit attraction is the Giant Javan Fig Tree, which is over 130 years old and spreads over an area of 1600 square meters. The tree is a natural wonder and a favorite spot for visitors to take pictures.

The garden also has a beautiful suspension bridge, known as the “Sita Ella Bridge,” which offers breathtaking views of the Mahaweli River that flows through the garden.

Visitors can also take a boat ride on the garden’s lake or enjoy a picnic in the open grassy areas.

Conclusion

Peradeniya Botanical Garden is a natural gem in Sri Lanka and should be on every traveler’s itinerary. The garden’s diverse collection of plants, beautiful flora and fauna, and peaceful ambiance make it an ideal place to spend a day. The garden is also a perfect spot for photography enthusiasts and nature lovers. So, if you’re planning a trip to Kandy or Around you should not miss this place. If you are a person who like to visit this place with us, then you can contact us or choosing our day tour in Kandy. 

(Featured Image Credit:  @meganhankin from Instagram) 

Udawattakele Sanctuary in Kandy City

Udawattakele Sanctuary

Udawattakele Sanctuary, or Royal Forest Park, is a wildlife sanctuary in Kandy city. You can observe this sanctuary behind the Temple of the Tooth Relic. It covers almost 104 ha (257 acres). Udawattakele was declared as a forest reserve in 1856 by the British government. Then it became a sanctuary in 1938. Today, travelers can enter this forest park, which can be described further as ‘ a nice place to trek in the Kandy area’.

Udawattakele Royal Forest has a long history. It runs when the Kandyan Kingdom starts torment. It runs when the Kandyan Kingdom starts in the 14th century. In those days, this was a large forest area, which was considered a rainforest. Later, this was called the “Udawasala Watta’ during the Kandyan era. The British captured the Kandyan kingdom in 1815, and the forest area became destroyed because of the cutting of trees. However, today it is a conservation area that is a habitat for many wild plants and animals.

You can see the canopy, sub-canopy, and underground forest covered here. The dense forest cover doesn’t allow sunlight to penetrate to the floor. Therefore, you can experience a very cool climate. As we mentioned earlier, you can observe many types of plants. Sources say that Udawattakele Sanctuary is home to 405 plant species, and almost 100 of them are endemic to Sri Lanka. Apart from that, it is home to 81 bird species and 21 snakes. The forest area is also a water source and it supplies essential water to the Kandy Lake.

You need to buy a ticket to enter to the forest and it is open between 8am to 5pm.But you are not allowed to take plastics and polythene.  This is certainly a fabulous place to do a relaxing walk with fresh air. You can further experience a stunning view of the Kandy City from here. Giant Pus Wela is key attraction of the Udawattakele Sanctuary. Waterpond, Kodimale, Senkada Cave and Garrison Symmetry are the other major attraction of this forest.

If you are a some one who like to visit this place, then you can contact us. This is also one of the place we will take our guest during our kandy travel package. If you love to visit other places in Kandy, then we suggest you check our kandy day tour package further.

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(Udawatta Kele Image Source: I Love Kandy facebook page)

Gregory Lake in Nuwara Eliya

Gregory Lake in Nuwara Eliya

Gregory Lake is an attractive place to visit in Nuwara Eliya. It was built by Sir William Gregory in 1873. The place is very popular among local and international travelers. There are many activities to do based on this reservoir. It covers 90.2 ha and the surface elevation is 1874 m.

Gregory Reservoir: History

Britain controlled Sri Lanka during the period of 1796–1948. In 1872, Sir William Gregory was appointed as the new governor of Ceylon. His ruling time was from 1872 to 1877. After seeing wet land there, Sir Gregory went to Nuwara Eliya and decided to build this reservoir. The dam was constructed after damming the Thalagala Stream.

During the British era, the lake was used for recreational and water activities. The water in the lake decided to direct itself into a tunnel for hydropower generation. That happened in 1913. The major aim of that hydro station was to generate essential electricity for the town.

Activities in Lake Gregory

The lake has been very popular for water activities in the past. You can do speed boat riding, swan boat riding, dinky boat riding, normal boat riding, and windsurfing. As well, there is a nice park around the lake. It is very beautiful because of the flowers on it. Furthermore, you can do pony rides, cycling, and leisure walks.

The seaplane can take you to Gregory Lake. You can book your seaplane tour from Colombo and it will take around 30 minutes to get to Nuwara Eliya. There are many hotels, restaurants, and other facilities out there for visitors.

More facts about the Area

Nuwara Eliya is beautiful city that is situated on the central highlands. The cool and wet climate attract many visitors to the location. April month considered as the best time to visit the Nuwara Eliya and Gregory Lake.

If you are planning Nuwara Eliya City Tour, then you can arrange it with Mahaweli Tours and Holidays. We are a leading tour agency in Sri Lanka. Call: 0777 111553 or email: info@mahaweli.lk for more details.

(Gregory Reservoir Cover Image Credit: OviCourt)

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