Joanna James
Located in the Southern Province of Sri Lanka, Tissamaharama is a quaint town that offers many things to do and see. It's also the starting point of journeys northward.
One of the most scenic attractions in Sri Lanka, Tissa Lake, is a reservoir located in the midst of verdant greenery. You can take a boat ride and explore the riverbanks. You'll come across many wildlife encounters, including migratory birds and fruit bats. Although locals like to swim in the lake, tourists are advised not to; there have been sightings of crocodiles in the lake. You can get here within four minutes from Kithala Resort.
A religious site with a history of 2,300 years, Yatala Vehera, is a Buddhist monument. Inside the stupa is an intricately designed moonstone. It's believed that the stupa was built by King Mahanaga to celebrate the birth of his son and his escape from an assassination attempt. The stupa stands in the midst of scenic surroundings, giving you a sense of calm and serenity. You'll also find a small museum next to the stupa; the museum holds a range of artefacts, including an antique bidet. It'll take less than 10 minutes to get here from your Tissamaharama hotel.
With great religious and historical significance, Tissamaharama Dagoba invites pilgrims and tourists in equal numbers. Built by King Kavantissa, the stupa goes back to 200 BC. The stupa stands tall at 55.8 metres with a circumference of 165 metres. Inside the stupa are several relics that belong to Buddha. Standing right next to Tissamaharama Dagoba is a statue of Queen Viharamahadevi, who was the wife of King Kavantissa. They had two sons together: Saddhatissa and Dutugemunu. King Dutugemunu is one of the most historically important figures in Sri Lanka.
Located at the premises of Tissamaharama Dagoba is another dagoba named Sandagiri Dagoba. With a history going back 2,000 years, the dagoba was built by King Mahanaga. You'll find the ruins of a monastery here.
To do some birdwatching, visit Wirawila Bird Sanctuary. You can see a range of migratory and endemic birds here. Don't forget to take your camera with you as there will be many photo opportunities. Also, make sure you have time to visit Wirawila Lake to watch the sunset.
Another beautiful lake found in the town, Debarawewa Lake, is located close to Tissa Lake. This is a favourite spot with water buffalos and birds, both migratory and endemic. Swimming is not advised as there are crocodiles hidden among lilies.
Enjoy canoeing in the lake of Yodakandiya. The riverbanks are rich with greenery that provides a nesting ground for birds. You can also camp here; if you decide to camp, make sure you have a mosquito repellent.
A paradise for bird lovers, Bundala National Park is on the migratory bird route. Nearly 200 bird species have been spotted at the park. This park isn't as popular as Yala National Park, but it offers an excellent safari experience. Bundala National Park is less touristy and not spoiled in any way.
Home to elephants and leopards, Yala National Park is one of the most visited tourist attractions in Sri Lanka. There are 160 leopards living here, the highest number of leopards living in the wilderness anywhere in the world. You can see elephants bathe in the water reservoirs and leopards roam around stealthily. Take your camera with you, but make sure you don't scare the animals by flashing lights.
To see local fishermen haul their daily catch and explore religious sites, visit Kirinda Fishing Village. There's a temple here by the name Kirinda Vihara Maha Devi temple, which is a must-visit; the temple was built to honour Queen Viharamahadevi.
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