Panama: Sri Lanka’s Hidden Eastern Paradise

 

Panama: Sri Lanka’s Hidden Eastern Paradise

Nestled in the Ampara District of Sri Lanka's Eastern Province, Panama is a charming village located about 12 km from Pottuvil, positioned right between Arugam Bay and Kumana National Park. 

It is said that Sinhala people fleeing British forces during the 1818 Uva-Wellassa Rebellion settled here. Today, the area still preserves a unique rural culture and distinct local dialects. Panama is especially famous for its rich traditions, including the Ankeliya ritual and Esala Perahera festival held at the historic Panama Pattini Devalaya. Folklore notes that the region—known as Panama Pattuwa—originally consisted of seven villages, including Egodagama, Megodagama, and Sastrawela. Additionally, Panama serves as the last major boundary village where Pada Yatra pilgrims traveling on foot from Jaffna to Kataragama rest before traversing the Kumana and Yala national parks. 

How to Get to Panama

By Road from Colombo:

Route 1: Travel via Monaragala, Siyambalanduwa, and Pottuvil. 

Route 2: Travel via Hambantota, Tissamaharama, and Yala. 

Local Transport from Pottuvil:

Regular SLTB state buses, private buses, and three-wheelers (tuktuks) operate directly from Pottuvil Town to Panama. 

Safety Warning: Wild elephants frequently roam the road between Panama, Kumana, and Okanda after 5:00 PM, so extra caution is strongly advised when traveling in the evening. 

Top Attractions in Panama

·        Panama Beach:

A tranquil, uncrowded coastline featuring golden sand dunes.  

·        Panama Lagoon:

A scenic mangrove ecosystem ideal for bird watching and relaxed boat tours. 

·        Panama Lake:

A prime spot for wildlife viewing, considered one of the best locations in Sri Lanka to see wild crocodiles. Visitors can climb the lakeside rock boulders to observe large crocodiles swimming freely in the lake. 

·        Kudumbigala Monastery:

An ancient forest monastery built among massive rock formations deep in the jungle. It houses Sri Lanka’s first cylindrical stupa and lies along the road from Panama toward Kumana. 

·        Kumana National Park:

A world-renowned national park famed for its dense birdlife and diverse wildlife. 

·        Okanda Devalaya:

A historical shrine located past Panama on the way to Kumana National Park. 

·        Sastrawela Maha Viharaya:

An ancient sacred site featuring Brahmi rock inscriptions and caves. Local legend holds that it was once home to ancient sages and meditative monks. 

·        Radella Beach & Lagoon:

A scenic coastal spot near Panama known for its red-ochre sand dunes and vibrant mangrove ecosystem. 

Surfing Hotspots Near Panama

Peanut Farm & Elephant Rock: Excellent surf spots with solid wave breaks and far fewer crowds than nearby Arugam Bay. 

Okanda Surf Spot: A famous surfing beach along the coastal stretch past Panama toward Okanda. 

Best Time to Visit

May to September: The dry season along the eastern coast brings sunny weather, making it the ideal window for sightseeing, beach activities, and surfing. 

October to January: The North-East Monsoon brings rain, which fills Panama Lake and the lagoon—creating the best season for bird watching. 

Accommodations in Panama

·        Wild Waves Kumana Safari & Surf Resort Hotel (Kumana Road, Bird Village) 

·        Peanut Farm & Wild Resort (Located right on Peanut Farm Beach) 

·        Panama Vista Villa Homestay Unit (Sastrawela, Panama) 

·        Moon Light Villa (Situated inside Panama Village) 

·        Waypoint Arugam Bay (Located on the road between Arugam Bay and Panama) 

·        Wild Edge Panama

·        Nilana Beach Cabana

·        Panama Sambu Cabana

·        Mango Villa Homestay

 

Riverston: A Cloud-Wrapped Wonder on the Edge of the Knuckles Range

 

Riverston: A Cloud-Wrapped Wonder on the Edge of the Knuckles Range

Located along the Naula–Laggala road in the Matale District of Sri Lanka's Central Province, Riverston is a stunning travel destination situated about 4,670 feet above sea level, bordering the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Knuckles Forest Reserve. 

Because the area is continuously blanketed in mist, trees are lushly covered with mosses, lichens, and various orchid species. Near Pitawala Pathana, rare plant species such as Kandala and Nilmonarassa can also be seen. 

The region is home to fauna endemic to the Knuckles Reserve, including the horned lizard, kangaroo lizard, and specific frog species. Visitors can also spot endemic and rare birds, such as the Sri Lanka hanging parrot, Layard's parakeet, yellow-eared bulbul, and the rare Sri Lanka whistling thrush. 

How to Get to Riverston

From Colombo or Kandy: Travel to Matale town, then head through Rattota to reach Riverston. 

From Kandy: Distance is ~60 km (~3 hours total travel time). 

From Colombo: Distance is ~175 km (~5 hours total travel time). 

Note: The road from Rattota to Riverston has sharp hairpin bends, requiring careful driving. 

From Dambulla or Kurunegala: Reach Riverston by travelling via Elahera and Laggala. 

Best Time to Visit

Optimal Season: The dry weather months from March to September are best for trekking and sightseeing. 

June to August: The wind gap experiences extreme winds and heavy fog, making travel challenging. 

October to January: Heavy rainy season. Expect dense mist, slippery roads, and an abundance of leeches. 

Best Time of Day: Mornings are ideal, as the area gets completely shrouded in mist by late afternoon. 

Key Attractions Around Riverston

·         Pitawala Pathana:  A striking grassland ecosystem set atop a flat rock slab featuring a sheer 750-meter drop at its edge. Managed by the Department of Forest Conservation, an entry ticket is required. 

·         Riverston Tower:

Located ~2 km from the main road, the peak offers a panoramic 360-degree view of the Dumbara Valley. Extreme winds blow along the narrow path near the top, and the route passes through a wind gap that remains misty and windy most of the year. 

·         Sera Ella:

A waterfall featuring a cave directly behind its curtain of water. Leeches are common along the access trails, so protective measures are recommended. 

·         Bambarakiri Ella:

A scenic waterfall located close to the main road, featuring a wooden suspension bridge.

·         Thelgamuwa Oya:

A popular river-bathing spot near Ilukkumbura. Consult locals about deep spots and whirlpools before swimming.

·         Sembuwatta Lake:

A man-made lake surrounded by tea plantations and pine forests. 

·         Matale Alu Viharaya:

The historic temple where the Tripitaka was first written down in book form. 

·         Nalanda Gedige:

An ancient stone temple site considered the geographical center of Sri Lanka. 

Places to Stay in Riverston

The Riverston Grand: Located on the Riverston–Rattota Road. 

Sir John's Bungalow: An old historic bungalow in Ilukkumbura formerly used by Sir John Kotelawala. 

Eco Vibe Resort: An eco-friendly stay near Rattota town. 

Wild Glamping Knuckles

Knuckles Wind Gate Hotel

Riverston Edge Resort

Exploring Nonperial: Sri Lanka’s Secluded Hill-Country Gem

 

Exploring Nonperial: Sri Lanka’s Secluded Hill-Country Gem

Tucked away in Belihuloya within the Ratnapura District of Sri Lanka's Sabaragamuwa Province, Nonperial sits perched at an altitude of approximately 5,000 feet above sea level. This tranquil, hidden destination offers breathtaking vistas from every angle: to its left stand Balathuduwa, Gommolli Kanda, and Adara Kanda (Lover's Leap); to its right lie the Samanalawewa Reservoir and Udawalawe Reservoir; while Horton Plains National Park rests directly behind it. 

How to Get to Nonperial

To reach this scenic village, travel along the main Colombo–Badulla road until you reach Belihuloya town. From there, turn onto the Nonperial Road and drive for about 11 kilometers to arrive at the estate.

Best Time and Hours to Visit

Ideal Months: The dry season between December and April offers clear skies and minimal rain, making it the finest window for exploration. 

Best Time of Day: Aim to visit between 6:00 AM and 10:00 AM. Heavy fog usually rolls in after 11:00 AM, thick enough to obscure most views. 

Top Sightseeing Highlights

1. Baker's Bend

Situated at an elevation of roughly 1,530 meters, Baker's Bend is a famous hairpin turn shaped like a horseshoe. As you travel up from the lower estate toward the Nagrak Bungalow, you will navigate a total of 33 sharp bends—with Baker's Bend being the 23rd curve. From this vantage point, visitors get a sweeping panorama of Samanalawewa, Udawalawe, and the surrounding mountain ranges. 

Historical Note: The bend is named after Sir Samuel Baker, the 19th-century British explorer who discovered Baker's Falls. Tragically, he lost his life near this location when his horse carriage tipped over at the 23rd bend. 

Note: Direct camping right at Baker's Bend is strictly prohibited. 

2. Nonperial Waterfall

A picturesque three-tiered waterfall located directly along the route up the estate. 

3. Nagrak Estate & Nagrak Bungalow

Sitting at nearly 7,000 feet above sea level, Nagrak is considered one of Sri Lanka’s highest villages. Reached after navigating all 33 winding turns through lush tea bushes, the estate features a classic colonial-era British bungalow. 

Prior permission is mandatory to visit or stay at the Nagrak Bungalow. 

Camping facilities exist in this area, but bookings must be arranged in advance. 

 Nearby Attractions

Samanalawewa Reservoir: Created by damming the Walawe River, this scenic reservoir features several viewing points to admire the dam and surrounding waters. 

Surathali Ella: A beautiful roadside waterfall encountered along the main Colombo–Badulla highway. 

Bambarakanda Falls: Sri Lanka’s tallest waterfall, located about 25 km away from Nonperial. 

Important Travel Tips & Guidelines

Refuel Early: Make sure to top up your vehicle's fuel tank in Belihuloya or Haputale before making the climb. 

Fog Precaution: Heavy, dense fog is frequent along the winding mountain roads; drive with extreme care and low visibility lights. 

Food & Drinks: There are no large restaurants on the estate, so pack your own snacks and water. However, a small local tea shop mid-route serves plain tea and fresh king coconut water. 

Drone Usage: Because Nonperial is a private tea estate, flying drones requires explicit prior authorization. 

Restricted Border: While you can hike past Baker's Bend up to Nagrak Bungalow, entering Horton Plains National Park beyond this point without an official permit is strictly illegal. 

Environmental & Campfire Rules: Littering or discarding polythene/plastics is strictly banned. During the dry season, high winds mean campfires must be restricted or avoided. 

Recommended Hotels & Stays Near Nonperial

Belihuloya Escape & Café: Ideal for travelers seeking a comfortable retreat in a peaceful environment. 

Terico Resort Belihuloya: A popular choice among sightseers visiting the Nonperial region. 

Belihuloya Fattah Camping Resort: The go-to option for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy camping. 

Kale Cottages Belihuloya: Excellent choice for guests looking for comfortable rooms and lush garden spaces. 

The White Grand Heritage: A top pick for travelers looking for a budget-friendly stay. 

Discover Ambewela: Sri Lanka’s Charming "Little New Zealand"

 

Discover Ambewela: Sri Lanka’s Charming "Little New Zealand"

Nestled in the Nuwara Eliya district of Sri Lanka’s Central Province, Ambewela sits proudly at an elevation of roughly 1,800 meters above sea level. Known far and wide as "Little New Zealand," this idyllic hill-country destination captivates both local and international travelers with its rolling landscapes and cool, crisp climate.

How to Get to Ambewela

·         By Train (The Scenic Route)

If you prefer traveling by rail, board the Udarata Menike or Podi Menike train along the Main Line from Colombo Fort toward Badulla, and hop off at Ambewela Railway Station. Riding through lush tea gardens, pine forests, and dramatic mountain ranges is easily the best way to reach the town.

The stretch between Nanu Oya, Ambewela, and Pattipola is celebrated as one of the most stunning train journeys in all of Asia. 

·         By Road

If you are driving or taking the bus, travel to Nuwara Eliya town first. From there, take the Hatton–Pattipola road and drive for about 18 kilometers to arrive in Ambewela. 

Best Time to Visit

April to May (Spring Vibes): The countryside wakes up with vibrant blooms, perfect for sightseeing and enjoying local seasonal festivals. 

August to September (Clear Skies): Expect minimal rainfall and bright, clear days—ideal for outdoor exploration. 

November to January (Cold & Misty): If you love chilly weather, heavy morning mist, and a cozy winter-like atmosphere, this is the prime window to visit. 

Must-Visit Attractions in Ambewela

1. Ambewela Dairy Farm

Established back in 1940 during the British colonial era, this location was specially chosen because its climate closely mirrors that of England and Scotland. The farm raises high-grade imported cattle breeds, primarily Frisian and Ayrshire.

A visit here lets you stroll past green pastures where cows graze freely, observe the milking process, and sample fresh dairy products like milk, yogurt, and cheese. 

2. Ambewela Railway Station

Perched at 1,827 meters above sea level, this historic station holds the title of the second-highest railway station in Sri Lanka. Built during the British colonial period, it still showcases its charming old-world architecture today. 

3. Strawberry Farm

Located just moments from the town center, these farms showcase vibrant red strawberries gleaming against lush green leaves. Visitors can tour the fields and taste fresh strawberries along with delicious strawberry-infused treats. Peak harvest season runs from February through May. 

4. Horton Plains National Park

Ambewela is just a short drive from the Pattipola entrance to Horton Plains. From here, you can trek to famous landmarks like World's End, Mini World's End, and Baker's Falls, or conquer peaks like Totupola Kanda and Kirigalpoththa. Keep an eye out for the bright red Rhododendron (Maha Rathmal) flowers and sambar deer roaming freely across the plains. 

5. Ambewela Windmills

Giant wind turbines dotting the mountain ridge form a striking, modern backdrop against the natural landscape. 

6. Fresh Farm Produce

The fertile soil of Ambewela produces thriving crops of carrots, potatoes, leeks, and cabbages. Roadside stalls offer travelers a chance to purchase farm-fresh vegetables directly from local growers at very reasonable prices. 

Essential Packing Tips

Warm Clothing: Heavy outerwear is a must to tackle the chilly mountain temperatures. 

Rain Protection: Bring rain jackets or umbrellas, as sudden showers are common in the highlands. 

Footwear: Comfortable walking or hiking shoes are essential for exploring the farms and parks. 

Where to Stay in Ambewela

Whether you want a historic colonial experience or a modern retreat, here are top accommodation picks in and around the area:

Jetwing Warwick Gardens: A restored 1930s British tea planter’s bungalow situated 1,602 meters high, surrounded by scenic tea estates. 

Sky Valley by Kayzar: A stylish, modern hotel offering contemporary comforts. 

The Fern Cove

Ambewela Holiday Resort & Cottages

Pattipola Nature Station

Ambewela Highland Homestead

Ambewela Railway Retreats

The Misty Villa Ambewela

Hill Country Cottage Pattipola

Meena's Home Stay Ambewela 

Sooriyakanda: A Misty Paradise Hidden in Sri Lanka’s Mini 18-Bends

 

Sooriyakanda: A Misty Paradise Hidden in Sri Lanka’s Mini 18-Bends

Located in the Ratnapura District between Rakwana and Deniyaya, Sooriyakanda is a breathtaking, chilly hill-country destination nestled right on the eastern border of the iconic Sinharaja Rain Forest. 

🚦 How to Get to Sooriyakanda

From Colombo: Travel to Pelmadulla, then proceed through Kahawatta and Rakwana. From Rakwana, drive up via the scenic 10-Hairpin Bends. The road is fully carpeted and in great condition, making it easily accessible by car, van, or motorbike. 

From Matara / South: Travel to Deniyaya town, and proceed directly up to Sooriyakanda from there. 

Local Travel Tip: If you plan to explore Morningside or Gongala Mountain from Sooriyakanda, the roads become narrow and rocky. It is highly recommended to use a three-wheeler (tuk-tuk) or motorbike for those stretches. 

📍 Top Attractions in Sooriyakanda

🛣️ Rakwana 10-Hairpin Bends (Mini 18-Bends)

Scenic Drive: This stunning stretch of road winds through lush tea estates and mountain ranges. Known as the "Mini 18-Bends," it consists of 10 dramatic hairpin turns between Rakwana and Sooriyakanda. 

Atmosphere: During the early morning and late evening, the entire route is enveloped in a cool breeze and thick fog. 

🌲 Morningside

Unique Ecosystem: Located near the eastern edge of the Sinharaja Rain Forest, Morningside is a unique high-altitude sanctuary. 

Highlights: Enshrouded in mist throughout the day, it features a serene pine forest, exotic wild orchid species, and rare endemic wildlife. 

⛰️ Gongala Mountain

High-Altitude Views: Rising 1,358 meters above sea level, Gongala is one of the highest peaks in the Sabaragamuwa Province and the highest elevation bordering the Sinharaja Rain Forest. 

360-Degree Panorama: The summit offers a sweeping 360-degree view encompassing Ratnapura, Deniyaya, and the vast Sinharaja forest canopy. On a clear day, you can spot the southern coastline, Udawalawe Reservoir, and surrounding tea plantations. 

Key Landmarks: The peak houses television transmission towers and a Sri Lanka Air Force post. 

💦 Handapan Ella Waterfall

Cascading Beauty: Originating from Gongala Mountain, this beautiful waterfall cascades down approximately 23 meters. 

🍃 Hayes Estate Viewpoint

Scenic Lookout: A picture-perfect viewpoint surrounded by rolling tea plantations and pine trees. 

🍵 World-Famous Rakwana Tea Estates

Colonial Heritage: Sooriyakanda’s high elevation was heavily utilized for tea cultivation during the British colonial era. Historic estates such as Enselwatte, Sooriyakanda, and Hayes can be explored here. 

🏡 Planters' Bungalows

Architecture: Traditional tea planters' bungalows constructed during British rule still dot the landscape. 

🌳 Pitadeniya Sinharaja Entrance

Proximity: From Sooriyakanda, you can reach the Pitadeniya entrance of the Sinharaja Forest Reserve via Deniyaya in about an hour. 

🛕 Rakwana Sri Muthukumari Amman Kovil

Cultural History: A historic Hindu temple located in Rakwana town, built by Indian estate workers brought over during the British era. Daily pujas are conducted morning and evening, and the annual Vel festival is celebrated with great grandeur. 

🗺️ Recommended 1-Day Itinerary

Morning (8:00 AM – 9:00 AM): Start your journey up the 10-Hairpin Bends from Rakwana, taking photos of the mountain scenery along the way. 

Mid-Morning (9:00 AM – 12:00 PM): Trek through Morningside and explore the pine forest. 

Lunch Break (12:00 PM – 1:00 PM): Enjoy a quiet lunch. (Note: There are no major restaurants in Sooriyakanda, so be sure to pack your own meals and bottled water.) 

Afternoon (1:00 PM – 3:30 PM): Head up to Gongala Mountain, and visit Handapan Ella and Galdola Ella waterfalls. 

Departure (4:00 PM): Conclude your day trip and begin driving back toward Rakwana or your next destination. 

🏨 Where to Stay

If you wish to spend the night, camping is allowed near the Morningside area. Alternatively, you can book one of these popular accommodations: 

Tara Waterfall Hotel: A popular hotel located very close to the Rakwana 10-Hairpin Bends. 

Sinharaja Tea Garden Hotel: Highly rated by travelers for its location surrounded by tea plantations. 

Cinnamon Village Sinharaja: An eco-friendly hotel set in a tranquil natural environment.

Sinharaja Forest Lodge: A scenic lodge located directly on the border of the Sinharaja Forest Reserve. 

Morningside Bungalow: A historic colonial bungalow managed by the Department of Forest Conservation. (Prior approval/booking from the Forest Department is strictly required.) 

Ambuluwawa Tower: Sri Lanka’s Sky-High Architectural Marvel

 

Ambuluwawa Tower: Sri Lanka’s Sky-High Architectural Marvel

Located near Gampola in the Kandy District, Ambuluwawa is one of Sri Lanka’s most unique and famous tourist destinations. Situated just 25 km from Kandy city and 6 km from Gampola town, the Ambuluwawa mountain peak reaches an elevation of approximately 3,567 feet above sea level. Perched at the summit is the iconic Ambuluwawa Tower, standing roughly 150 feet high. 

🕊️ A Symbol of Religious Harmony

Ambuluwawa holds special historical significance as Sri Lanka’s first multi-religious sanctuary, conceptualized by former Prime Minister D.M. Jayaratne. The site incorporates sacred architectural symbols representing four major world religions—Buddhism, Islam, Christianity, and Hinduism. It stands as the only location in Sri Lanka where a Buddhist temple, a Hindu kovil, a Christian chapel, and a Muslim mosque exist together on the same ground.

🗼 Climbing the Spiral Tower

The main Ambuluwawa Tower is designed in the shape of a Buddhist stupa, crowned with a crest structure at its top. 

The Experience: Climbing the narrow, spiral staircase surrounding the outer spire is a thrilling and adventurous experience that offers an unforgettable adrenaline rush. 

Safety Notice: As you climb higher, the pathway becomes increasingly narrow. While the base stairs are about 3 to 4 feet wide, the upper steps narrow down to just around 1.5 feet—allowing space for only one person at a time. Therefore, climbing to the very top is not recommended for young children or elderly individuals. 

Entry Ticket: Visitors must purchase an entrance ticket to access the tower and premises. 

🌄 360-Degree Panoramic Views

Reaching the top rewards climbers with a spectacular 360-degree panoramic view of Sri Lanka’s central highlands: 

South:             Sri Pada (Adam’s Peak) 

East:    Pidurutalagala Mountain Range 

North: Knuckles Mountain Range and Hanthana Mountain Range 

West: Bathalegala (Bible Rock) and Utuwankanda 

🌿 Nature, Bio-Diversity & Biodiversity Complex

Ambuluwawa is officially recognized as Sri Lanka’s 4th Botanical Garden. It serves as a sanctuary rich in endemic bird species, diverse flora, and rare medicinal plants. At the base of the mountain, visitors can also enjoy a landscaped park and a peaceful rock garden. 

⏱️ Time Needed: Plan for approximately 2 to 3 hours to fully explore the grounds and complete the tower climb. 

🚗 How to Get to Ambuluwawa

By Private Vehicle: Drive from Gampola town along a winding mountain road that leads directly to the base of the Ambuluwawa Tower. 

By Public Transport: Take a train or bus from Kandy to Gampola town. From Gampola station or bus stop, hire a local tuk-tuk to take you up to the tower complex. 

☀️ Best Time to Visit

Time of Day: The best times to climb are early in the morning or late afternoon after 3:00 PM. 

Weather Warning: Avoid climbing during heavy rain or foggy conditions, as the narrow, damp steps can become hazardous. 

Avoid Crowds: Weekends tend to draw large crowds, so visiting on a weekday offers a much more relaxed experience. 

📸 Drone Photography Rules

Ambuluwawa is a world-renowned destination for drone photography. However, operating a drone requires special prior permission from the ticket counter / administration office. 

🗺️ Nearby Tourist Attractions

Lankatilaka Temple & Gadaladeniya Vihara (~10 km): Ancient historic temples dating back to the Gampola Kingdom era. 

Embekke Devalaya (~10 km): A must-visit destination famous for its intricate, world-class wooden carvings. 

Kotmale Reservoir & Dam (~25 km): A scenic stop along the road toward Nuwara Eliya for nature lovers. 

Hanthana Mountain Range (~20 km): A premier hiking and trekking destination with pristine mountain views. 

Nelligala International Buddhist Center (~23 km): A beautifully elevated religious shrine with sweeping valley views. 

Peradeniya Royal Botanical Gardens (~18 km): Located along the Kandy road, this is Sri Lanka’s largest and most famous botanical garden. 

Udawatta Kele Sanctuary (~27 km): A historic forest reserve located right behind the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic in Kandy.

🏨 Where to Stay Near Ambuluwawa

W15 Ambuluwawa: A luxury retreat offering rapid access to the tower and breathtaking views of the mountain range. 

W15 Hanthana Estate (Kandy): A high-end luxury bungalow set amidst nature near the Hanthana range. 

Ambuluwawa View Inn Foreign Guest House

The Releaf Ambuluwawa

White Eco Villa

Green View Peak

Alexandra Home

Mountbatten Bungalow (Kandy)

Amaya Hills (Kandy)

Melheim Kandy Villas

Mount Havana Luxury Villa

Danisco Leisure Bungalow