Joanna James
Standing amidst green swathes of Sri Lanka’s upcountry, Ambuluwawa Tower isn’t often talked about, which is surprising given its blend of a challenging climb and scenic views. This tower features various religious symbols and offers some of the most beautiful views in the area, along with the chance to climb all the way to the top. Ambuluwawa Tower is a must-visit for anyone travelling to Kandy. Here’s everything you need to know to plan an unforgettable visit.
Located on a hill, the Ambuluwawa Tower is a remarkable spiral structure in Gampola. It was built in 2006.
The peak of Ambuluwawa Mountain is 3,567 metres above sea level, and the tower itself stands at 54 metres in height.
What makes it special is its multicultural character, which reflects the country’s diverse ethnicities. It’s a religious site that houses a Buddhist temple, a Hindu temple, a Christian church, and a mosque. For this reason, the tower is visited by a diverse range of Sri Lankans as well as foreigners.
There is also a stunning garden with a variety of flowers and plants, as well as a lake and small ponds. The tower is the standout feature of the complex and is visible from Gampola Town.
The white conical shape of the tower, with the staircase that wraps around the outside, makes it look like something out of a fantasy movie.
The tower is about 25 kilometres from Kandy. It’s approximately one and a half hours from Aarunya Nature Resort, which is a popular boutique hotel in Sri Lanka.
If you prefer a comfortable trip where you can enjoy the journey without worrying about logistics, consider joining a tour from Kandy.
Alternatively, you can take the bus from Kandy, which runs all the way to Gampola Town. From there, it’s a matter of finding a tuk-tuk to take you to the tower.
A foreigner needs to pay LKR 2,000, about USD 7, to gain access to the complex. The ticket office is open from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM. Outside these hours, visiting the tower is impossible, so make sure to arrive within the specified timeframe.
The Ambuluwawa Tower is gaining popularity with both locals and foreigners, so the place tends to be a bit crowded during the peak season from December to April. To avoid the crowds, you either need to arrive early or visit on weekdays.
Visit on a clear day, if possible, to enjoy the views of the mountains, which are often covered in clouds. It’s a good idea to check the weather forecast before heading out.
Enter the building at the base. Inside, you’ll find a staircase leading upwards. The first half of the tower climb takes place inside the building, which makes it feel somewhat mundane, but it becomes exciting and thrilling as you continue.
You’ll reach the viewing platform, where you can pause for a moment and take in the scenery. The outside staircase is extremely narrow and gives the feeling of spiralling right into the sky. There are numerous dizzying turns, so if you’re afraid of heights, it’s not for you. In some sections, the staircase becomes so narrow that there isn’t enough room for two climbers to stand side by side – you may have to backtrack a few steps to let the other through.
Although it can feel a bit uncomfortable and challenging due to the tightly wound staircase, the panoramic views are well worth it.
The climb takes around 10 minutes, more or less. The heat can be intense, so bring a hat and sunglasses. Bring enough water, but avoid large backpacks. There are monkeys around, so keep a tight grip on your belongings.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
