Introduction
Thampana Lake is situated nearby to the village Pilessa – Mawathagama in Kurunegala – Kandy main road of Kurunegala district and it is a beautiful site surrounded by a range of mountains.
History of Thampana Lake
The history of this reserve dates back to the King Walagamba Dynasty. Legend has it that King Walagamba lived in hiding near this mountain range and that the King organized his armies for war from here.
Later, the king built a temple here, it is known as Bamba Temple and still it exists.
A pond can be seen on the site of the Bamba Temple and it is said in legend that it was used for bathing by the King and Queen of Walagamba.
Similarly, it is said that King Walagamba made a tunnel through the mountain ridge from this reserve to the Silver Temple (Ridee Viharaya).
It is said that the king secretly came through this tunnel to worship the Silver Temple (Ridee Viharaya), but the tunnel has not been found yet.
It has been found that there are rare plants around this Thampana Reserve, which has a high level of biodiversity.
We can’t visit it whenever we want, only one day in a month.
When to Visit Thampana Lake
Thampana Reservoirs and nearby Bamba Temple are allowed to be visited only on Poya days and if you cross the Thampana Reserve, you need to take a special permission.
How to Get to Thampana Lake
This Lake is easily accessible by road, and the journey itself is a scenic experience. Here’s how you can reach this hidden gem:
- From Colombo: The lake is approximately 100 km from Colombo. You can drive or take a bus to Kurunegala and then hire a tuk-tuk or taxi to reach Mawathagama.
- From Kandy: If you’re exploring the cultural triangle, Thampana Lake is about 1.5 hours away by car. The drive offers breathtaking views of Sri Lanka’s countryside.
Videos
Thampana Lake Photos
Location
Final Thoughts
Thampana Lake in Mawathagama is a hidden treasure that showcases the unspoiled beauty of Sri Lanka. Whether you’re a nature lover, an adventure seeker, or simply someone looking for a peaceful retreat, this serene lake has something for everyone. Add Thampana Lake to your Sri Lanka travel itinerary and experience the magic of this enchanting destination.
