Mahaoya Hot Springs (මහඔය උනු දිය ලිං)

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Located near Mahaoya town, these seven natural springs are the hottest in Sri Lanka, with temperatures reaching a steaming 56°C. Once inaccessible during the civil conflict, the site is now a popular destination. Managed by local authorities, it offers visitors a unique chance to experience therapeutic, mineral-rich thermal waters.

The Mahaoya Hot Springs are located approximately 2 km (about 1.2 miles) from Mahaoya town. They are considered to be the hottest among all hot springs in Sri Lanka. The site features seven well-maintained wells, each with varying temperatures. The hottest well reaches a temperature of about 56°C (133°F), while only two wells are suitable for bathing. The remaining wells continuously emit visible steam due to their high temperatures.

Access Fee

The wells are maintained by a local government authority, and an entry fee of Rs 50 is charged in the form of a vehicle parking fee. The caretaker, who is also responsible for issuing parking tickets, keeps several buckets and is usually willing to provide them to visitors for use at the site.

Historical Context

For a considerable period, the area was inaccessible to the general public due to the presence of LTTE (Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam) militants. Following the end of the conflict and the defeat of the LTTE, the area has once again been opened to visitors.

Directions to the Site

Access to Mahaoya Junction is possible via three main routes: from Batticaloa, Ampara, and Mahiyangana. The road leading to the hot springs branches off from the Mahiyangana road (Arannaganwila Rd), approximately 400 m (about 0.25 miles) from the junction. A signboard marks the turn-off to Arannaganwila Rd. From there, travel about 2 km (1.2 miles) and take a right turn. The hot wells can then be reached by proceeding a further 400 m (approximately 0.25 miles) along this lane.

Also See

Map of Mahaoya Hot Springs

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Traveling Directions to Mahaoya Hot Springs

Route from Colombo to Maha Oya Hot Water Springs	Route from Ampara town to Maha Oya Hot Water Spring
Through : Kandy – Mahiyangana – Padiyathalawa Distance: 250 km Travel time : 6-7 hours Driving directions : see on Google Maps.	Through : Uhana Distance: 64 km Travel time : 1.15 hours Driving directions : see on Google Maps.
Route from Batticaloa to Maha Oya Hot Water Springs
Through : Chenkaladi Distance: 60 km Travel time : 1.15 hours Driving directions : see on Google Maps.

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