Ambuluwawa Tower
Ambuluwawa is a biodiversity complex and Sri Lanka’s first multi-religious centre, located in Gampola, Kandy. This Trigonometrical Station contains a tall freestanding tower resembling a stylized Buddhist stupa, a Hindu Kovil, a Muslim mosque, and a Christian Church. With its crooked Burton-esque staircase, you can reach the top of the fairy-tale-looking Ambuluwawa tower at approximately 48 meters (3567 feet). Then you can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, forests, rivers, and towns. The continuous mist can obscure the view at times.
Bio Diversity of Ambuluwawa
Many plants and animals live in Ambuluwawa and the surrounding area. It contains 200 different plant species from 80 different families. The hill and surrounding forest have been designated as a forest reservation area known as the “ICC Forest Reservation.”
History
The area has a documented history dating back over 700 years. In the 14th century, Gampola and the surrounding area were the capitals of Sri Lanka. King Buvanekabahu IV was the Gampola Kingdom’s first ruler. From 1341 to 1357 AD, he ruled the region.
The Ambuluwawa Tower, hill, and forest area were first developed in 1997. It first opened to the public on September 18, 2007. Former Sri Lankan Prime Minister D.Mu. Jayarathna was the man behind the establishment’s inception.
surroundings of Ambuluwawa
The Ambuluwawa Mountain is roughly 3560 meters above sea level and is a reasonably easy trek that provides panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, forests, rivers, and villages.
Ambuluwawa is surrounded by Piduruthalagala to the east, Bible Rock (Bathalegala) to the west, Sri Pada (Adam’s Peak) to the south, and the Knuckles Mountain Range to the north. Aside from these mountains, there are numerous other mountains visible, adding to the area’s appeal. Among these are the Hanthana Mountain Range, Hunnasigiri Mountain, and mountain ranges associated with Algalla and Kadugannawa. As a result, the mountain air is pleasant throughout the area.
Ambuluwawa Tower Climb
Experiencing this activity is very adventurous. The tower stands nearly 48 meters tall. The inside road leads to the top of the tower. However, in order to feel the fear, you must take the outside road. When you reach the top from the bottom, the staircase becomes narrow. It’s extremely difficult to rise to the top these days. In crowded conditions, there are few caves to escape to. The wind is howling as you make your way to the top. Anyone would be terrified by it. The important thing to remember is that it is not a dangerous activity. The tower rises 1047 meters above sea level.
The hike to Ambuluwawa is not recommended for the elderly or children, and it would be an adventure for those who are afraid of heights. Avoid leaning on the railing to take photographs, especially at the top, as it is extremely dangerous because one could easily fall off.
How to Reach Ambuluwawa
Ambuluwawa is 129 kilometres from Colombo and 25 kilometres from Kandy. From Gampola, the entrance to the Ambuluwawa biodiversity complex is 5 kilometers away. To get to the tower, you must first descend a hilly and sloppy road. To enter the entire complex, you must bring a ticket.
If you’re travelling by bus, take the Gampola-Hemmthagama route. You must exit at the halt located near the entrance. Walking 2 kilometers will bring you close to the tower. However, it is ideal if you can get here by bike or small car. It is not necessary to travel to Gampola via Peradeniya from Colombo. In Mawanella Town, you can turn onto Hemmathagama Road. Driving for 24 kilometres will get you to Gampola. Aside from this road, you can also get to Gampola via Kadugannawa.