Top things to do in Thiruwanaketiya (Sri Lanka)

Thiruwanaketiya: A Guide to Sri Lanka's Hidden Gem

Thiruwanaketiya is a quaint village situated in the South of Sri Lanka. Known for its scenic beauty, the village is abundant in wildlife and natural wonders. With a variety of tourist attractions ranging from wildlife safaris to ancient ruins, Thiruwanaketiya can be a perfect destination for a serene getaway. In this guide, we will take you on a tour of Thiruwanaketiya's best tourist attractions.

Kalametiya Bird Sanctuary

Located just outside of Thiruwanaketiya, the Kalametiya Bird Sanctuary is a must-visit for all bird enthusiasts. The sanctuary is home to a wide variety of birds, including migratory and resident species. Visitors can take a boat ride around the lagoon to observe the birds up close. The sanctuary also offers guided tours, making it a perfect way to learn more about Sri Lanka's birdlife.

URL: kalametiya-eco-bird-watchin...

Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage

The Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage is a sanctuary for adult and baby elephants, located just a short drive from Thiruwanaketiya. The orphanage was established with the aim of providing a safe space for abandoned and maimed elephants. Visitors can witness the elephants being fed and bathed, making it a perfect way to observe these majestic creatures up close.

URL: nationalzoo.gov.lk/elephant...

Yala National Park

Yala National Park is a vast forest with wild animals and birds. The park is located around 3 hours from Thiruwanaketiya and offers visitors the opportunity to see elephants, leopards, crocodiles, and abundant birdlife. The park offers jeep safaris, making it a perfect way to explore the wildlife in Sri Lanka.

URL: www.yalasrilanka.lk/

Dambulla Royal Cave Temple and Golden Temple

The Dambulla Royal Cave Temple and Golden Temple is located on the Kandy-Jaffna highway. It is a cave temple complex with art and relics dating back to ancient times. The temples are built into five caves under overhanging rock, containing paintings, statues, and wall murals. Visitors can take a guided tour to learn more about the rich history of this temple complex.

Independence Square

The Independence Square is located in the heart of Colombo, around 2.5 hours from Thiruwanaketiya. The square features a statue-topped fountain and is located in front of the Independence Memorial Hall. Visitors can take a stroll around the square and take in the rich history of Sri Lanka's independence.

URL: www.culturaldept.gov.lk/

Sigiriya

Located around 2 hours from Thiruwanaketiya, Sigiriya is an ancient city with ruins and a rock fortress. The ruins of a 5th-century city are anchored by a towering rock fortress accessible by steep stairs. Visitors can climb the fortress to witness the breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding jungle.

URL: sigiriyasrilanka.com/

Bundala National Park

Located around 2 hours from Thiruwanaketiya, the Bundala National Park is a national park with lagoons and marshes. It is an important refuge for migratory water birds like flamingos. Visitors can take a safari ride to observe the abundant birdlife and wildlife in the park.

Minneriya National Park

The Minneriya National Park is located around an hour from Thiruwanaketiya. This sprawling preserve features a large 3rd-century reservoir, plus elephants and other wildlife. Visitors can take a jeep safari to observe the wildlife in the park.

URL: www.mwfc.gov.lk/2022/03/05/...

Negombo Dutch Fort

Located around 2.5 hours from Thiruwanaketiya, the Negombo Dutch Fort is a historic fort that dates back to the Dutch colonial era. Visitors can take a stroll around the fort and observe the rich history of the area.

St. Mary's Church

Located in the heart of Thiruwanaketiya, St. Mary's Church is a stately church with ceiling paintings. The Catholic church features a columned, blue-and-white facade and colorful paintings decorating its nave. Visitors can attend mass at the church and observe the beautiful artwork.

Kaudulla National Park

Located around an hour from Thiruwanaketiya, the Kaudulla National Park is Sri Lanka's 15th national park. An abundance of food and water year-round makes this national park a wildlife hotspot. Visitors can take a jeep safari to observe the abundant wildlife in the park.

Habarana Elephant Safari

Located around an hour from Thiruwanaketiya, the Habarana Elephant Safari is a perfect way to observe Sri Lanka's majestic elephants. Visitors can take an elephant ride or a jeep safari to observe the elephants up close.

URL: dulasafari.business.site/

Pidurangala Royal Cave Temple

Located around 2 hours from Thiruwanaketiya, the Pidurangala Royal Cave Temple is a unique Buddhist temple built atop a massive rock. The ancient temple is a popular hike for history and panoramic views. Visitors can observe the temple's beautiful architecture and take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding area.

Nainativu

Nainativu is an island located around 4 hours from Thiruwanaketiya. It is a popular pilgrimage site for Hindus and Buddhists alike. Visitors can observe the rich history of the island and take in the beautiful scenery.

URL: www.nainathivu.com/

Birds Park/Birds Research Center Hambantota

Located around 2.5 hours from Thiruwanaketiya, the Birds Park/Birds Research Center Hambantota is a bird watching area. Visitors can observe the abundant birdlife in the area and learn more about Sri Lanka's bird species.

URL: www.birdspark.lk/

Kalametiya Beach

Located just outside of Thiruwanaketiya, Kalametiya Beach is a perfect way to spend a relaxing day by the sea. The beach features a beach pavilion and offers visitors the opportunity to observe Sri Lanka's beautiful coastline.

Sri Lanka Tour Guides

If you need assistance in planning your trip to Thiruwanaketiya, Sri Lanka Tour Guides is a travel agency located in the area. They can assist you in organizing your tours and provide you with expert advice on the best places to visit in Sri Lanka.

URL: eranda5268.wixsite.com/sril...

Amaze Tours

Amaze Tours is a tour operator located on Kandy Road in Thiruwanaketiya. They offer a variety of tours around Sri Lanka, making it a perfect way to explore the area.

URL: www.amazesrilanka.com/

Thiruwanaketiya is a hidden gem in Sri Lanka and a perfect destination for a serene getaway. With a variety of tourist attractions ranging from wildlife safaris to ancient ruins, Thiruwanaketiya offers something for everyone. Whether you're looking for adventure or a relaxing day by the sea, Thiruwanaketiya has it all.