Tissamaharama is located near the renowned Yala National Park, making it the perfect base to visit this park. It’s great to stay close by so you can head to the park early in the morning. Tissamaharama, also known as Tissa, is a small village with a few enjoyable sights. Rural life here is wonderfully uncomplicated, and everything moves a bit slower. Tissamaharama is a great place to explore after going on a safari in Yala National Park!
Things to Do in Tissamaharama
There isn’t a ton to do in Tissamaharama, but there are definitely some fun things you shouldn’t miss.
Walk or Bike to Tissa Lake
Tissa Lake is a beautiful reservoir built in the 3rd century BC for irrigating rice fields and supplying water to the city. Along the section of the main road, it doesn’t seem any different than a simple lake, but as you turn the corner onto Sandungama Road, the nature surrounding Tissa Lake becomes increasingly enchanting. Here, large trees stand in the water surrounded by countless water lilies. Look up at this location in the trees. It’s not leaves or fruits hanging in clusters from the branches, but bats! Thousands of fruit bats, to be exact. These large bats hang there, lazily sleeping until evening comes, and the sun sets, prompting them to start their search for food.
Note: Don’t forget to watch the ground as well when looking at the bats. Crocodiles inhabit the lake.
Witness the Sunset at Debarawewa Lake
There’s another remarkable lake among the sights in Tissamaharama. Debarawewa Lake, adjacent to Tissa Lake, is smaller. Also, along Debarawewa Lake runs a beautiful path with green rice fields on one side and the tranquil lake on the other. This is the perfect spot to enjoy the sunset. As the sky transforms into a beautiful array of colors, it reflects in the water of the lake, creating stunning views.
Tip: After watching the sunset at Debarawewa Lake, you can head back to see the bats at Tissa Lake. Around this time, they wake up and fly from tree to tree, which is quite a sight due to their large numbers.
Visit Tissamaharama Raja Maha Vihara Temple
For a cultural outing, visit the Tissamaharama Raja Maha Vihara Temple. There’s a serene atmosphere in the temple, which is an important place for locals. The large white stupa stands an impressive 50 meters tall (164 feet), towering above the green landscape. It’s believed that the temple dates back to the 3rd century BC when King Mahanaga of Ruhuna ruled, shortly after Buddhism arrived in Sri Lanka. Nevertheless, it was King Kavan Tissa who rebuilt the temple in its current form in the 2nd century BC.
Tip: Bring socks to the temple as the tiles around it can get very hot, and you’ll need to remove your shoes here.
Go on a Safari in Yala National Park
You mainly visit Tissamaharama because it’s the perfect base for Yala National Park. This is the third-largest national park in Sri Lanka but ranks first in the list of most visited parks in the country. Yala National Park is home to many large wild animals such as elephants, sloth bears, crocodiles, water buffalo, and notably, leopards. In fact, it’s one of the best places in the world to spot a leopard in the wild. Before going on safari, it’s useful to keep a few things in mind. So, read our 10 tips for visiting Yala National Park before you depart.
Restaurant Tips in Tissamaharama
Smoky Kitchen – For the best rice & curry in Tissamaharama, head to Smoky Kitchen. This restaurant has an open clay kitchen where everything is freshly prepared in large pots. Dining here is a delightful experience!
Chef Lady Restaurant – This cozy restaurant offers an extensive menu mainly focused on fish and seafood.
The Flavors Restaurant – This restaurant is run by a lovely family and serves delicious Sri Lankan cuisine.
Natural Fresh Juice Bar – For your daily dose of vitamins, visit the Natural Fresh Juice Bar.
Our Favorite Spots in Tissamaharama
In Tissamaharama, you can find some beautiful accommodations. Let’s start with Rice Rice Villas. Here, you’ll sleep in an idyllic hut amidst rice fields surrounded by palm trees. There’s an infinity pool offering a brilliant view of the vast rice paddies. The charming Hotel River Front is also a pleasant place to stay. Enjoy a pool in a beautiful garden, delightful breakfasts, and a warm rain shower. Additionally, it’s beautifully located by the river. If you have a slightly larger budget, Richards Cabanas is recommended. This hotel is run by a lovely family, and you can enjoy delicious breakfasts and dinners. Once again, there’s a nice pool with luxury sun loungers. Due to the lush surroundings, you can spot many tropical birds here.
 Rice Rice Villas |
 Hotel River Front |
 Richards Cabanas |
