Ambuluwawa is a multi-religious complex built on a hill surrounded by a nature reserve in the Gampola area of Sri Lanka. The location is unique for exploring the lush greenery, biodiversity, and scenic beauty of the surrounding area of 920 acres. The Ambuluwawa Tower is the main attraction of this complex and the surrounding landscape that can be seen from its top has attracted all the tourists to this station. Built as a multi-religious complex, It represents all religions including Buddhists, Hindus, Muslims, and Catholics. So tourists of all religions can be seen often visiting.
The mountain is 3567 feet above sea level, and the development of the mountain range started in 1997 and in 2002 it became the best-developed mountain range in the world. Later, on September 18, 2007, the complex was opened to the public and has been open to tourists daily since then.
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Ambuluwawa Tower
The 400-foot-high tower on top of the hill is also known as the Agricultural Tower. It represents the Sri Lankan farming community, and the shape of its original part is similar to the traditional rice storage used in Sri Lanka known as Paddy Bissa, It represents the Sri Lankan rice farmers. The second part is shaped like a pumpkin and represents the Sri Lankan vegetable farmers. The third part of the tower is built in the shape of a cocoa nut to represent Sri Lankan fruit farmers.
Climbing to the top of the tower is an extremely thrilling experience that stimulates the adrenaline of all the tourists who visit. You can start climbing after entering the building from the base and use the stairs to climb to the top. After hiking halfway up, the remaining part should hike by taking the outside stairs. You can experience the best thrill while climbing the tower via the outer staircase watching a 360-degree view. On a clear day, many mountains around the country can be seen from the top of the tower, including Adam’s Peak, Peacock Hill, and Pidurutalagala.
As the stairs get narrower when going up, tourists find it quite difficult to go up and down on crowded days and have to wait for a while to go up.
History
When we consider the history of the area around the hill, it dates back to the kingdom of Gampola and it is said that during the Gampola era, this hill was used to monitor possible enemy invasions of the kingdom.
There is no accurate information about how the mountain area got its name, and it is popularly believed that it got its name from a special plant called Bulu that was common in this area.
The area was used for tea plantations in the early 1900s. In 2005 the Sri Lanka Army started developing it as a nature reserve and multi-religious complex, today Ambuluwa has become a popular tourist destination attracting tourists from around the world.
Biodiversity and wildlife
The mountain area is home to various flora and fauna, some of which are endemic to the island. There are many species of insects and beetles and 20 species of butterflies. There are about 43 species of reptiles, of which 23 species are endemic to our country. There are 24 species of snakes in this ecosystem, ranging from small snakes to giant pythons, as well as about 90 species of birds.
Best time to visit Ambuluwawa
The best time to visit Ambuluwawa Tower is during the dry season from December to March. As the weather is pleasant during this period, visitors can enjoy the scenic beauty of the surroundings without worrying about the disturbance of rain. During the rainy season, climbing the tower is difficult and fog obscures the view of the area.
On clear days, the view from the top of the tower is amazing and you can see the entire city of Gampola. Moreover, you can see many famous mountains of Sri Lanka like Pussellawa, Kothmale Range, Adam’s Peak, Piduruthalagala, Knuckles, Hunnasgiriya, Peacock Hill, Seven Virgin Mountain Range, and Namunukula Range.
Things To Do In Ambuluwawa
Things to do in Ambuluwawa include tower climbing, hiking, bird watching, and photography. Visitors here have the opportunity to explore the surrounding nature reserve while enjoying the scenic beauty of the surrounding landscape.
How long does it take to climb the Tower?
It takes approximately 20-45 minutes to climb to the top of the tower depending on your fitness level. This may vary depending on the number of visitors there. On busy days this time is very long and you have to wait in line to go up
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Ambuluwawa Tower ticket price And Reservations
For locals: LKR 100 per person
For foreigners: LKR 2000 per person( USD 6 )
Click Here To Reserve Tickets Online
How to get to Ambuluwawa
By Car
There are several ways to reach Ambuluwawa. If you are coming from Kandy, take the Kandy Gampola road to reach Gampola town, and from there, you should go about 12km on the Gampola Hemmathagama road. On the way, you can see the entrance to Ambuluwawa and the vehicle parking on the left. You can contact us if you need a taxi
If you are coming from Colombo, you must first come to Mawanella town on the Colombo-Kandy road. and from Mawanella town you should go on Mawanella- Gampola road. On that way, You will see the entrance on your right side after going 25km
By Bus
If you are coming by bus, you should take the bus to the Gampola bus stand from anywhere in Sri Lanka. Then take the bus to Hemmathagama from the Gampola. it would be best if you got out when you reached the Ambuluwawa Tower bus stand.
By Train
If you are planning to come here by train, you should take a train from Colombo, Kandy, or Nuwara Eliya to Gampola railway station. From there, the Tower can be accessed by bus, taxi, or tuk-tuk.
Conclusion
Ambuluwawa Tower is more than a tower; It is a testament to Sri Lanka’s rich culture, religious harmony, natural beauty, and commitment to sustainability. Ambuluawa complex welcomes visitors of all races and religions and do not miss the opportunity to embark on this unforgettable journey.
FAQs
- How can I reach the complex?
Ambuluwawa is accessible by road, and you can reach it by car or public transport. It’s located near Gampola in Sri Lanka.
- Is there an entrance fee to visit the Ambuluwawa Tower?
Yes, there is an admission fee to enter. The fees may vary for locals and foreigners.
- Can I visit year-round?
Yes, you can visit the tower throughout the year, but the best time to visit is during the dry season to enjoy clear views.
- Are there guided tours available?
Yes, guided tours are available for visitors who want to learn more about the tower’s history and significance.
- Is Ambuluwawa Tower suitable for families with children?
Yes, the tower and its surroundings offer a family-friendly environment, and children can enjoy the natural beauty and cultural experiences.