Located in Sri Lanka’s southern plains, Tissamaharama — or simply “Tissa” — is a peaceful town filled with lakes, temples, and a touch of wilderness. Once an ancient capital of the Ruhuna Kingdom, today it serves as the gateway to two of Sri Lanka’s most popular wildlife parks — Yala and Bundala.
For travelers who want to combine culture, nature, and adventure, Things to Do in Tissamaharama include everything from temple visits to birdwatching and sunset strolls by the lake. Among the many peaceful places to stay, Kithala Resort offers the perfect base to experience both the tranquility of the town and the excitement of nearby safaris.
Enjoy the Beauty of Tissa Lake
A Peaceful Escape in Nature
Tissa Lake, also known as Tissamaharama Wewa, is one of the most scenic and calming spots in the south. Built by ancient kings for irrigation, this large man-made reservoir is now a haven for relaxation and photography. The still waters reflect the sky, palm trees, and distant mountains — creating postcard-perfect scenes at sunrise and sunset.
Visitors can enjoy a leisurely walk or cycle around the lake, watching fishermen cast their nets or local farmers tending nearby fields. In the evenings, the atmosphere turns magical as flocks of birds return to roost among the trees.
Birdwatcher’s Paradise
Tissa Lake attracts a wide range of birdlife, making it a favorite spot for birdwatchers. You’ll see herons, egrets, storks, and sometimes even the elegant pelican gliding across the water. The gentle sounds of nature and the cool breeze make it a perfect stop for peaceful reflection.
Visit the Sacred Yatala Dagoba
A Glimpse into Ancient Ruhuna
A visit to Yatala Dagoba is like stepping back in time. This gleaming white stupa, surrounded by hundreds of stone elephant carvings, dates back more than 2,000 years. It is believed to have been built by King Yatala Tissa to honor the Buddha.
The site also features a small museum displaying ancient artifacts, including pottery, coins, and relics that tell the story of Tissamaharama’s royal past. Surrounded by calm gardens and shaded paths, the dagoba is a peaceful place to meditate or simply enjoy the quiet history of the region.
Evening Serenity
At dusk, the dagoba glows in the soft light, and the chants from nearby temples create a spiritual ambiance. Many travelers describe this as one of the most moving experiences in Tissamaharama.
Go on a Safari Adventure
Yala National Park – The Leopard’s Kingdom
Just a short drive from Tissamaharama lies Yala National Park, Sri Lanka’s most famous wildlife reserve. Known for its high concentration of leopards, Yala also shelters elephants, crocodiles, deer, and hundreds of bird species. Early morning and late afternoon are the best times for safaris when animals are most active.
A guided jeep safari offers a thrilling way to experience Sri Lanka’s wild side while capturing stunning photographs of nature at its best.
Bundala National Park – For Bird Lovers
For a quieter, more nature-focused experience, visit Bundala National Park. Recognized as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Bundala is home to flamingos, painted storks, and migratory birds from as far as Siberia. The park’s lagoons, dunes, and scrub forests create a rich ecosystem that appeals to wildlife enthusiasts and photographers alike.
Discover Local Culture and Rural Life
Village Tours and Paddy Fields
Tissamaharama is surrounded by lush paddy fields and small farming villages where life moves at a gentle pace. Joining a guided village tour allows you to experience local traditions — from rice cultivation to coconut harvesting.
You can also enjoy a home-cooked Sri Lankan meal prepared by villagers, offering authentic flavors and warm hospitality that make your visit memorable.
Evening by the Fields
Watching the sunset over golden paddy fields, with the distant sound of temple bells, is one of the simplest yet most beautiful moments you can experience here.
Why Stay in Tissamaharama
- Ideal Base for Safaris: Close to both Yala and Bundala parks.
- Rich Cultural Heritage: Home to ancient temples and stupas.
- Scenic Beauty: Lakes, fields, and wildlife all around.
- Peaceful Ambiance: Perfect for rest after a day of exploring.
- Warm Hospitality: Friendly locals and charming boutique resorts
Conclusion
Tissamaharama offers a perfect balance of nature, culture, and relaxation. From the tranquil shores of Tissa Lake to the spiritual calm of Yatala Dagoba and the excitement of Yala safaris, every moment here reveals a different side of Sri Lanka’s southern charm.
For travelers seeking a comfortable and scenic retreat, this resort provides the ideal stay — blending modern comfort with the peaceful spirit of the countryside, just minutes away from the region’s most captivating experiences.