Ambuluwawa Tower in Sri Lanka: An Offbeat Day Trip from Kandy
Just 30 km from Kandy, perched high in the hills of Gampola, lies Ambuluwawa Tower in Sri Lanka. This tower is a part of a biodiversity park, which is a symbol of spirituality, nature and is perfect for thrill seekers.
From climbing the iconic Ambuluwawa tower, to enjoying the nature around it, this destination and architectural marvel offers an unforgettable experience in central Sri Lanka.
What is the Ambuluwawa Tower in Sri Lanka?
The Ambuluwawa tower is a showstopper at the Ambuluwawa Biodiversity Park.
They are located in Gampola, a town located in Kandy District in Sri Lanka.
It is an important ancient capital in Sri Lanka’s history. King Buwanekabahu IV made Gampola the capital of the island and ruled for four years in the mid-fourteenth century. The area was then identified as a site for spiritual and religious harmony.
The modern development of the Ambuluwawa area began in 1997, with the history kept in mind. It was spearheaded by former Prime Minister D. M. Jayaratne. The park finally opened in 2006.
This was to be a place where people of different religious faiths could come and live in harmony and practice their beliefs.
The most terrifying climb in Sri Lanka
This white tower in Kandy, is the most thrilling part of the Ambuluwawa biodiversity park. Many visitors dare to climb this tower as it is a thrilling experience. The tower is 48 m tall, and is situated on top of the Ambuluwawa mountain that is 1080m ASL.
The tower is white in color and is shaped like a stupa at the bottom. It towers upwards and becomes narrower all the way to the top, with a spiral staircase around it.
How to Reach Ambuluwawa Tower?
Ambuluwawa Tower, Sri Lanka and the Biodiversity Park is a great day trip from Kandy, which is the nearest big city.
You can reach this white tower in Kandy in 1 hour from the main town if you go by road and if traffic permits.
You can also use public transport to reach this destination by taking a Train to Gampola, which is the nearest railway station to Ambuluwawa.
From the station, a tuk-tuk can bring you to the park. Here is a snapshot of places from which you can reach Ambuluwawa.
👉 If you’re planning a scenic journey in Sri Lanka, don’t miss our detailed guide on the Kandy to Ella Train Ride, often called the most beautiful train route in the world!
From | Distance (Approx) | Time Taken (Approx) |
Kandy | 25 km | 1 hr |
Colombo | 120 km | 3 hr 15 min |
Sigiriya | 128 km | 3 hr 30 min |
Ella | 161 km | 4 hr 45 min |
Ambuluwawa Tower Entry Fees and Operating Hours
The entry fee for Ambuluwawa Biodiversity park and Ambuluwawa tower is 2,000 Srilankan Rupees, for foreigners.
Opening hours are from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM.
You can buy the ticket at the entrance or if you wish to save time and avoid the queue, Book Ambuluwawa Tickets Online via the official website.
This is especially useful if you’re visiting on a weekend or public holiday when it tends to get busy with school trips and locals.
👉 Book Your Ambuluwawa Tower Day Tour Here
Explore the stunning biodiversity tower and surrounding landscapes with a convenient, guided tour.
The Ambuluwawa Tower: What It’s Like to Climb
Climbing the Ambuluwawa Tower is the highlight of the visit. You have to enter the tower from the bottom of the dome shaped building.
First 5 floors are enclosed and it would feel like you are climbing a normal building. Post 5th floor, the tower opens up and from there you have to climb the white spiral staircase as it gets narrower going up.
The steps are steep but manageable. A waist-high railing surrounds the spiral which is sturdy and strong.
However, the narrowing design and wind give the experience a thrilling edge, making it seem like the structure is shaking.
There are pockets and ledges if you wish to rest or give way to others.
The last leg feels like walking in the sky; terrifying yet exhilarating.
On a clear day, you can witness a panoramic view from the top that includes the Knuckles Mountain Range, Piduruthalagala, Adam’s Peak, and even glimpses of the coastline.
What To Do at Ambuluwawa Biodiversity Complex
The Ambuluwawa biodiversity park is a huge place for you to enjoy your entire day. Climbing the tower is just a part of it. There’s lot more that you can do.
Boating
Enjoy a relaxing boat ride on the park’s scenic water bodies. A peaceful break after climbing the tower.
Giant Swing and Activity Zone
You can check out the activity zone just before the tower area. There is a giant swing, which is the perfect thing to do if climbing the tower is not adventurous enough.
Apart from that, the activity zone has other things to do like rope bridges and pine tree adventure of walking high above the ground suspended through trees.
Visit the Multi-Religious Center
Ambuluwawa biodiversity park is a unique place where you can find a Buddhist temple, Hindu Kovil, Christian church, and a mosque; all in one place. This can be found right next to the entrance of the tower.
Twin Ponds
You can walk around the massive park and spend some time at the twin ponds, which is a tranquil oasis within the park, surrounded by lush greenery.
Souvenir & Crafts Shop
Do visit the souvenir shop at the bottom of the tower, right at the entrance. Take home a gift to remember this special place by.
Best Time to Visit Ambuluwawa Tower
Ambuluwawa tower Sri Lanka is open year-round, but weather can affect your experience, especially the visibility from the top of the tower.
The best time to climb the tower is from December to March, when the weather is dry, clear, and sunny.
From June to September Sri Lanka witnesses the monsoon season, so you may get rain while visiting the destination.
However, we visited Ambuluwawa in June and it was a really pleasant time, with cool weather and good amount of clear skies.
Try to visit early in the morning on a weekday to avoid crowds.
Practical Travel Tips to Ambuluwawa Tower
- Set aside at least half a day for your visit.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes, with a good grip.
- People with fear of heights, should try to attempt, there are places to stop and rest if you do not wish to all the way to the top.
- Carry a light jacket or a wind-breaker.
- There is a restroom near the activity zone, which you can use before you go up to the tower.
- The park is family-friendly, but the tower isn’t stroller-accessible.
FINAL WORDS
Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie, nature lover or looking for something out-of-the-box, Ambuluwawa offers a little bit of everything.
If you’re traveling through Kandy, make time for Ambuluwawa Tower. It’s one of the most unique and offbeat experiences in Sri Lanka — blending nature, faith, fun, and fear in the best way possible.
FAQs
How long does it take to climb the Ambuluwawa tower?
It takes around 15 minutes to climb the Ambuluwawa tower if you walk up without a break. But most people take a little more, as they go slowly while taking breaks, shooting videos, and taking pictures.
Is Ambuluwawa a temple?
Ambuluwawa biodiversity park is a multi-religious center, where you can see a Buddhist Stupa, Hindu temple, Mosque and church.
