Tissamaharama
Sri Lanka · Southern Province · 15 m
Description
Tissamaharama (තිස්සමහාරාමය) was already an important center and the capital of the southern kingdom of Ruhuna in the 3rd century BC. Today, the town is a popular base for exploring Yala and Bundala National Parks as well as the sacred sites of Kataragama. The white Tissamaharama Dagoba is one of the most significant ancient stupas in southern Sri Lanka and reflects the island’s early Buddhist heritage. Beside it lies Tissa Wewa, an ancient irrigation reservoir that still supplies the surrounding rice fields and attracts numerous waterbirds. Together with nearby stupas and archaeological sites, Tissamaharama offers a glimpse into the rich heritage of ancient Ruhuna.
Length of stay
Recommended length of stay: 1 to 3 days (optimal 2 days)
Travel season
Best time to visit: February – April
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Highlights
- Yala National Park safari(Day trip)
- Tissa Wewa reservoir at sunset
- Tissamaharama Raja Maha Vihara dagoba
- Bundala National Park safari(Day trip)
- Waterbirds of the Tissa and Debara tanks
- Sandagiri Stupa
- Yoda Wewa
- Kirinda beach and rock temple(Day trip)
- Wirawila bird sanctuary(Day trip)
- Tissa town market
- Ruhuna kingdom ruins around Tissamaharama
Getting there
- Nearest airports:
- HRI