Sri Lanka, a tropical island nation located in the Indian Ocean, is known for its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. One of the country’s lesser-known gems is Ambuluwawa Tower, a breathtaking tower located in the hills of Gampola. In this article, we’ll explore the history and significance of Ambuluwawa Tower, as well as provide practical information for those interested in visiting.
What is Ambuluwawa Tower?
Ambuluwawa Tower is a 48-meter tall tower located in the Ambuluwawa mountain range in Sri Lanka’s central province. The tower is situated on top of a mountain and offers visitors panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Ambuluwawa is part of the Ambuluwawa Bio Diversity Complex, which spans over 250 acres of land and is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna.
The tower itself is made of steel and concrete and is designed to resemble a Buddhist stupa, a type of hemispherical structure used as a place of meditation. The tower has seven floors, each with a different theme. For example, the first floor is dedicated to astronomy and features a telescope that visitors can use to observe the night sky. The second floor is dedicated to the environment and showcases the diverse flora and fauna found in the area. Other floors are dedicated to culture, religion, and history.
History of Ambuluwawa Tower
The Ambuluwawa Bio Diversity Complex was created in 2005 with the aim of promoting environmental conservation and education. The tower was built as part of this effort and was officially opened to the public in 2010. Since then, it has become a popular destination for both locals and tourists alike.
The tower’s unique design is inspired by Sri Lanka’s rich Buddhist heritage. The stupa-like shape of the tower is meant to symbolize the Buddhist path to enlightenment, which involves a gradual process of self-improvement. The tower’s seven floors are also significant in Buddhist symbolism, representing the seven stages of enlightenment.
Visiting Ambuluwawa Tower
If you’re interested in visiting Ambuluwawa Tower, there are a few things you should know. The tower is located in the hills of Gampola, which is about 20 kilometers from the city of Kandy. The best way to get there is by car or taxi, although public transportation is also available.
When you arrive at the Ambuluwawa Bio Diversity Complex, you’ll need to pay an entrance fee to access the tower. The fee is relatively low and goes towards the maintenance and upkeep of the complex.
Once you’ve paid the entrance fee, you can make your way up to the tower. There are two ways to do this: you can either hike up the mountain or take a shuttle bus. The hike is relatively strenuous, so if you’re not up for a workout, we recommend taking the shuttle.
Once you reach the tower, you’ll be able to explore each of the seven floors at your own pace. Each floor offers something unique, so make sure you take your time to fully appreciate everything the tower has to offer. And of course, don’t forget to take in the stunning views of the surrounding countryside!
