Ambuluwawa Tower Gampola

I’ll never forget the day I finally decided to check out the Ambuluwawa Tower in Gampola, Sri Lanka. I’d heard whispers about this place for years, but for some reason, I just never got around to visiting. Maybe it was the rumors of its mysterious past, or the fact that it’s tucked away in a small town that’s not exactly on the beaten path. Whatever the reason, I was determined to find out what all the fuss was about.

Ambuluwawa Tower: My Journey

So, on a sunny weekend in this March 2024, I packed a bag and set off to explore the Ambuluwawa Tower. I was headed to Ambuluwawa Tower, located in Gampola about 5 kilometers from the town center. The Tower is about 48 meters tall, and is located on top of Ambuluwawa Mountain, which is 3,567 meters above sea level. The journey from Colombo was going to be a long one, but I was determined to make it worth my while. The tower is a popular tourist attraction and architectural landmark, and offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, waterfalls, and misty peaks

I drived from the city center and I hit the road, leaving the hustle and bustle of Colombo behind. The scenic route took us through winding roads and lush green landscapes, with the sun shining brightly overhead.

As I drove through the winding roads and lush green hills, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of excitement and curiosity. What would I find when I got there? Would it live up to my expectations? The sun was shining, and the air was filled with the sweet scent of blooming flowers, setting the tone for a perfect day.As I climbed higher, the views became more breathtaking, with rolling hills and valleys stretching out as far as the eye could see. I couldn’t help but feel a sense of awe at the natural beauty of Sri Lanka. Final afer hours of drive, I reached to town and parked my car.

After parking vehicle, I looked to my left where a sign with names i could . Following that sign I soon saw a cafeteria.

When I got there, I thought it would be a good idea to take a break and grab a snack with a drink. Then, I headed to the main gate. I bought my ticket there – I think tickets for foreigners cost… um… I forgot! But for local adults, it’s 90 rupees.

When I got to the main gate, I realized I couldn’t bring my big backpack because it’s not allowed. So, I left it in my car. Then, I had to figure out how to get to the top. I could either walk for 2-3 kilometers or take a tuk-tuk for 1200 rupees. I decided to walk because I heard the views of nature from the top are really cool. But if you have trouble walking or get tired easily, you might want to take a tuk-tuk instead. If you do decide to walk, don’t forget to bring some snacks and water to keep you going.

As I walked to the top, I saw that there were special places to rest every 500 meters. I stopped and took a break, and even got to breathe some fresh air! As I got closer to the end, I saw some really cool statues of Buddha and Devi, and people sitting on the fences. When I finally reached the top, I went through the big wheel gate to get to the main area. Then, I finally arrived at the foot of the tower, and I was blown away by its unique architecture. It’s a bit of a mix between a pagoda and a lighthouse, with intricate carvings and a striking design that seemed to come alive in the sunlight. I could feel the history and culture oozing out of every stone, and I was eager to explore every nook and cranny.

As I finished admiring the outside of the Ambuluwawa Tower, I couldn’t wait to explore the top . I turned to the right and walked up to the white concrete fence. From there, I took out my camera and snapped some amazing photos of the city views. I even took a few videos to capture the moment. After I was done taking pictures, I was ready to start my journey inside the tower.

As I made my way up the tower, I was struck by the stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The rolling hills, the verdant valleys, and the sparkling streams all combined to create a breathtaking panorama that took my breath away.

The first part of the stairs was really big and easy to climb. But as I kept going up, the stairs got smaller and narrower, and it felt like I was really climbing a mountain! It was an amazing feeling.

As I was climbing the stairs, I sometimes ran into other people who were climbing too. When that happened, the cages were really helpful. I could step inside a cage, wait for the crowd to move, and then keep climbing without feeling rushed or squished.

After a really tough but super cool climb, I finally reached the top of the Ambuluwawa Tower!. I’ve counted It takes about 327 steps to get to the top of Ambuluwawa Tower and aprox two hours climbing. When you get there, you’ll see amazing views all around you! But be careful, because the stairs can be scary if you’re afraid of heights. The view from the top was absolutely amazing. I could see for miles and miles in every direction, and it was one of the most beautiful things I’d ever seen in Sri Lanka. I felt like I was on top of the world, with the wind in my hair and the sun on my face. I took few of pictures and videos to remember the moment. If you have a drone, this is the perfect place to use it and get some really cool footage of the surrounding lands.

Ambuluwawa Tower views from MIddle
Ambuluwawa Tower views from middle
Ambuluwawa Tower views from Top
Ambuluwawa Tower views from Top

Ambuluwawa Tower

But it wasn’t just the views that made my visit special – it was the rich history that surrounded me. I spent hours learning about the tower’s past, from its construction to its significance in Sri Lankan culture. Every stone, every carving, and every detail seemed to tell a story, and I was fascinated by the history that unfolded before me.

As the sun began to set, I reluctantly made my way back down the tower, feeling refreshed, renewed, and with a newfound appreciation for this hidden gem. Have you ever visited a place that left you feeling inspired and awestruck?

Ambuluwawa Tower Sun set views

It’s a place where you can really disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and just be. I left feeling refreshed, renewed, and with a newfound appreciation for this hidden gem.

As I walked back to my car, I thought about how often we forget about the cool things that are right in our own neighborhood. The Ambuluwawa Tower is definitely one of those places that’s worth finding. Have you ever gone to a place that surprised you with how pretty and special it was?

It’s not a good place for kids because there are big gaps in the railing and they could fall through. It’s also not a good idea to go if it’s raining because the stairs can be slippery.

Ambuluwawa Tower Entry Fee

  • If you’re a local, the entrance fee is 90 LKR for adults and 30 LKR for children.
  • For foreign adults, it’s 2000 LKR (that’s about 3.5 USD), and for children, it is about 1.5 USD.

You can’t pay with a bank card, so make sure to bring some local money.

Ambuluwawa Tower Nearby Restaurants

When you visit Ambuluwawa Tower, you’ll find lots of yummy food to try and comfy places to stay. There’s something for everyone in the area around the tower. I’ve tried some of them. Here are my favorite spots

Near Ambuluwawa Tower, there’s a town called Gampola where you can try yummy Sri Lankan food. One of my favorite places is Raja Bojun, a small restaurant that serves amazing rice and curry. The food is super tasty and there’s lots of it! You have to try their special dish, kottu roti, which is a mix of chopped bread, veggies, and meat, all mixed with spices. It’s so good!

Mango Mango

If you’re looking for a place that feels like home, Mango Mango is a great choice. They have a mix of Sri Lankan and Western food, so you can try something new or stick with what you know. The restaurant is cozy and has a lot of options, like yummy burgers and pasta. They also have fresh fruit juice, which is perfect for hot days or after a long day of exploring.

Mlesna Tea Centre

If you’re feeling fancy, you should go to the Mlesna Tea Centre. It’s in a nearby town called Nuwara Eliya, and it’s a really nice place to eat. They have a special high tea that’s super yummy, with lots of sandwiches, pastries, and tea. You can even see the tea plantations from the window! It’s a great place to go if you want to feel like you’re in a fancy hotel

Ambuluwawa Tower Nearby Accomodation

The combination of budget and mid-range comfortable accommodations makes it an ideal destination for an overnight trip. Here are some recommendations to suit various preferences and budgets.

Green View Holiday Resort

If you’re on a budget, you should stay at the Green View Holiday Resort in Gampola. The rooms are clean and comfy, and the people who work there are super nice. You can see the hills and valleys from your window, and it’s a great place to relax after a long day of exploring.

La Pinci Restaurant

La Pinci Restaurant in Gampola is an affordable option, offering clean rooms with private bathrooms. It’s conveniently located just 10 minutes from the Gampola bus stand.

Goddess Cheerful Villa

For a more luxurious stay, Goddess Cheerful Villa in Kandy offers spacious rooms and excellent amenities. This villa provides a tranquil retreat with beautiful surroundings and easy access to the tower.

Suki Villa

Another great option in Kandy is Suki Villa, which is only 1km away from the city center. It’s an affordable yet comfortable choice with modern amenities and a welcoming atmosphere.

The Aurelia

The Aurelia in Gampola offers a mid-range option with comfortable rooms and an available pool. It’s perfect for travelers looking for a relaxing stay with great facilities.

Kandy Villa

For those seeking a boutique experience, Kandy Villa offers a unique stay with personalized service. The villa is located in a serene setting, providing a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle.

Weir House Family Room

Located in Ulapane, Weir House Family Room is perfect for families or larger groups. It’s a spacious and well-equipped accommodation just a short drive from Ambuluwawa.

Things to Do Near Ambuluwawa Tower

I suggest when you visit Ambuluwawa Tower, exploring the surrounding areas as well. With so many fun activities and attractions nearby, you can easily turn your visit into a full-day adventure. Here are some nearby attractions based on my experience:

Visit the Pinewoods

The serene environment of the Pinewoods is perfect for a leisurely stroll or a picnic. The cool, shaded area provides a nice escape from the heat. Allocate around 2-3 hours to fully enjoy this peaceful spot.

Paddle Boat Rides

For a relaxing activity, head to the nearby lake for a paddle boat ride. It’s a great way to unwind and enjoy the scenic beauty. Allocate around 45 minutes for this activity.

Adventure Park

For thrill-seekers, the Adventure Park offers various activities that promise fun and excitement. Whether you’re into zip-lining or rock climbing, there’s plenty to do. Allocate around 2 hours for this adventure.

Explore the Religious Area

The religious area near the tower offers cultural insights and a sense of tranquility. It’s a great place to learn more about local traditions and practices. Spend about 45 minutes exploring this area.

Souvenir Shopping

The souvenir shop near the tower offers a range of unique items to remember your visit. From handcrafted trinkets to local crafts, there’s something for everyone. Spend about 45 minutes browsing through the shop.

By Mani Mughal

With a background in electrical engineering and a love for travel, I've created this blog to share my adventures and correct the misinformation surrounding Sri Lanka.