Ambuluwawa Tower and Biodiversity Complex

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“The Ambuluwawa Tower is a unique multi-religious center and biodiversity complex located in the Ambuluwawa Mountain near Gampola, in the Central Province of Sri Lanka. Standing at an elevation of about 1,112 meters (3650 feet) above sea level, the tower is one of the most striking landmarks in the area, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, valleys, and towns.”

Ambuluwawa is a popular tourist location in Sri Lanka’s Central Province, close to the town of Gampola, which was the capital of the kingdom built by the renowned Sinhalese King Buvanekabahu IV (1341–1357 AD). It is well known for its scenic beauty, biodiversity, and spiritual significance. Ambuluwawa hill is 590 meters (1965 feet) high from Gampola town and 1,112 meters (3650 feet) high from sea level and provides breathtaking vistas of the surroundings.

One of the key attractions of Ambuluwawa is the Ambuluwawa Tower, also known as the Ambuluwawa Biodiversity Complex. The site is a multi-religious center that represents various religions practiced in Sri Lanka, including Buddhism, Hinduism, Islam, and Christianity. Temples of each religious faith is built at the top of the mountain, and visitors can learn about the cultural and religious diversity of Sri Lanka.

In addition to the religious aspects, Ambuluwawa is also famous for its rich biodiversity. The hill is covered with lush greenery, including a variety of trees, plants, and flowers. It serves as a habitat for numerous bird species and other wildlife.

Visitors to Ambuluwawa can enjoy hiking and nature walks along well-maintained paths. The cool climate and serene environment make it a perfect spot for those seeking tranquility and natural beauty. The panoramic views from the top of the hill are particularly stunning, especially during sunrise and sunset.

However, the most exciting feature is the Ambuluwawa Stupa at the top. The stupa is built on a tall, hollow cylinder. A staircase spirals around the inside of the cylinder and takes the traveler to the outside base of the dome of the stupa.

The stupa is a modest but tall building. Another staircase that winds around the dome and ascends to the stupa’s topmost point is extremely fascinating. As they ascend, the stairs get narrower, making it impossible for two persons to pass one another. There are a few hollows at various levels that one may cram into to let another pass through in order to prevent such situations.

The climb to the top of this tiny staircase is one of the most exciting experiences, but the view of the surrounding towns and mountains made this point one of the most photographed locations in the area.

Best Time to Travel to Ambuluwawa Tower

In Sri Lanka, the dry season, which normally lasts between December and March, is the ideal time to visit Ambuluwawa. The weather is often good throughout these months, with bright skies and little rain. It is comfortable to engage in outdoor pursuits like trekking and experiencing Ambuluwawa’s natural beauty because of its mild temperature. Additionally, the place is best visited in the morning or late evening when the sun is at its most gentle.

Ambuluwawa Tower Ticket Prices

The ticket prices for Ambuluwawa Tower vary for tourists and locals. For foreign visitors, tickets cost LKR 1,500 for children and LKR 2,750 for adults. Local visitors are charged LKR 50 for children and LKR 150 for adults. All prices are inclusive of taxes, so no additional charges apply. Tickets can be purchased either at the entrance or conveniently online.

Entry Type	Cost – including taxes (LKR)
Foreign – Adult	2,750
Foreign – Child	1,500
Local – Adult	150
Local – Child	50
Motor Bike	100
Three Wheeler	150
Car / Van	350
Bus	500

Ambuluwawa - Biodiversity Complex - Looking down after climbing the stupa, you can see the spiral stair case

Ambuluwawa - Biodiversity Complex - View from top of the stupa

Ambuluwawa - Biodiversity Complex - Last steps on the stupa is barely passable

Ambuluwawa - Biodiversity Complex - Ambuluwawa Stupa with the cylindrical base

Ambuluwawa - Biodiversity Complex - Buddha Statue at the top of the mountain

Ambuluwawa - Biodiversity Complex - View of the Gampola town from top of the stupa

Ambuluwawa - Biodiversity ComplexView of the Ambuluwawa mountain with the stupa at the top from Bin-Vino Hotel

Ambuluwawa - Biodiversity Complex - Ambuluwawa stupa in the morning mist

Ambuluwawa - Biodiversity Complex - Ambuluwawa Stupa

Ambuluwawa - Biodiversity Complex - Observation Tower at the top

Ambuluwawa - Biodiversity Complex - Part of the Boulder Garden

Ambuluwawa - Biodiversity Complex - The top of the Stupa with the staircase going around it all the way to the top

Ambuluwawa - Biodiversity Complex - View of the observation tower after climbing up all the way on the stupa

Ambuluwawa - Biodiversity Complex - View of the stupa from the Observation Tower

Ambuluwawa - Biodiversity Complex - View of the observation tower after climbing half way of the stupa

Ambuluwawa - Biodiversity Complex - Looking doen from the observation tower you can see the star shaped stair case

Ambuluwawa - Biodiversity Complex - Bell Tower

Ambuluwawa - Biodiversity Complex - The Supa and the Observation Tower

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Map of Ambuluwawa Tower—Gampola

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Driving Directions to Ambuluwawa Tower

Route from Colombo to Ambuluwawa, Gampola	Route from Kandy to Ambuluwawa, Gampola
Though : Peradeniya distance : 125 km Travel time : 4 hours Driving directions : see on google map	Though : Gampola distance : 25 km Travel time : 1 hour Driving directions : see on google map