
The Kandalama Reservoir stands as one of Sri Lanka’s most beautiful ancient reservoirs, located in Dambulla, Matale District. Situated just 8 kilometers from the famous Dambulla Cave Temple, this magnificent water body has been captivating visitors since colonial times with its serene beauty and historical significance.
Historical Significance and Purpose
Built during ancient times, the Kandalama Reservoir serves as a:
- Vital irrigation source for surrounding agricultural lands
- Testament to ancient Sri Lankan engineering
- Critical water supply for local communities
- Natural habitat for diverse wildlife
The reservoir’s construction showcases the sophisticated water management systems of ancient Sri Lanka, demonstrating remarkable engineering skills that continue to function effectively today.
Why Visit Kandalama Reservoir?
1. Scenic Beauty
- Panoramic views of surrounding mountains
- Crystal-clear waters reflecting the sky
- Lush greenery along the shoreline
- Perfect sunset and sunrise viewing spots
2. Activities Available
- Hot Air Ballooning: Experience breathtaking aerial views
- Bird Watching: Spot numerous native and migratory species
- Photography: Capture stunning landscape shots
- Swimming: Enjoy designated safe bathing areas
- Nature Walks: Explore surrounding wilderness trails
3. Wildlife Spotting
The reservoir attracts diverse wildlife:
- Various bird species
- Monitor lizards
- Occasional elephants
- Numerous butterfly species
Best Time to Visit
Peak Season (December to April)
- Clear skies perfect for photography
- Ideal conditions for hot air ballooning
- Comfortable temperatures
- Best wildlife viewing opportunities
Off-Peak Season (May to November)
- Lush green surroundings
- Fewer crowds
- More affordable accommodation rates
- occasional rain showers
Tip: Early morning visits offer the best lighting for photography and higher chances of wildlife sightings.
How to Get There
From Dambulla:
- Distance: 8 km
- Travel Time: 15-20 minutes
- Transport Options: Tuk-tuk, taxi, or private vehicle
From Colombo:
- Distance: Approximately 160 km
- Travel Time: 4-5 hours
- Route: Via A6 highway through Kurunegala
Recommended: Hire a local driver familiar with the area for easier navigation.
Accommodation Options
Luxury
- Heritance Kandalama: Iconic hotel overlooking the reservoir
- Various boutique hotels in the surrounding area
Mid-Range
- Local guesthouses
- Homestays with reservoir views
Budget
- Basic accommodations in Dambulla town
- Backpacker hostels in the vicinity
Essential Tips for Visitors
- Safety First
- Swim only in designated areas
- Be cautious during evening hours
- Keep distance from wildlife
- What to Bring
- Camera
- Sunscreen
- Insect repellent
- Water bottles
- Light snacks
- Best Practices
- Respect local customs
- Avoid littering
- Support local communities
- Follow designated paths
Nearby Attractions
Make the most of your visit by combining Kandalama Reservoir with:
- Dambulla Cave Temple (8 km)
- UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Ancient Buddhist cave paintings
- Historical significance
- Sigiriya Rock Fortress (15 km)
- Ancient palace complex
- Spectacular views
- Historical importance
- Local Villages
- Traditional lifestyle
- Authentic Sri Lankan cuisine
- Cultural experiences
Photography Opportunities
Best Photo Spots:
- Reservoir Viewpoints
- Sunrise and sunset shots
- Panoramic landscapes
- Wildlife photography
- Hot Air Balloon Views
- Aerial perspectives
- Morning light effects
- Unique angles
- Nature Trails
- Flora and fauna
- Macro photography
- Environmental portraits
Environmental Significance
The Kandalama Reservoir plays a crucial role in:
- Local ecosystem maintenance
- Water conservation
- Agricultural sustainability
- Wildlife habitat preservation
FAQs About Kandalama Reservoir
Q: Is swimming allowed in the reservoir? A: Yes, but only in designated areas. Always follow local guidance for safety.
Q: When is the best time for hot air balloon rides? A: Early morning hours during the dry season (December to April) offer optimal conditions.
Q: Are there guided tours available? A: Yes, local tour operators offer guided experiences around the reservoir.
Planning Your Visit
Recommended Duration
- Half-day visit: Basic sightseeing
- Full-day visit: Including activities
- 2-3 days: To explore surrounding attractions
Best Times
- Early Morning: 6:00 AM – 9:00 AM
- Late Afternoon: 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Final Thoughts
Kandalama Reservoir offers visitors a perfect blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and recreational opportunities. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or photography opportunities, this ancient reservoir provides a memorable experience in Sri Lanka’s cultural heartland.
Sorry, no records were found. Please adjust your search criteria and try again.
Sorry, unable to load the Maps API.
Share this:
- Click to share on X (Opens in new window) X
- Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook
- Click to share on LinkedIn (Opens in new window) LinkedIn
- Click to share on Reddit (Opens in new window) Reddit
- Click to share on Tumblr (Opens in new window) Tumblr
- Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window) Pinterest
- Click to share on WhatsApp (Opens in new window) WhatsApp
- Click to email a link to a friend (Opens in new window) Email