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Kataragama
Sri Lanka's Sacred Heart
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✦ Sacred Destination of Sri Lanka ✦
Sri Lanka's Sacred Heart
A historic gateway to the south, blending ancient heritage with stunning natural beauty, just a short drive from Kataragama.
Tissamaharama, often referred to as Tissa, is a town steeped in history and natural splendor. Once the capital of the ancient Kingdom of Ruhuna, it served as a sanctuary for Sinhalese royalty during times of foreign invasion in the north.
Today, Tissamaharama serves as a perfect base for exploring Yala National Park and the Kataragama temple complex. The town is dominated by the massive Tissa Wewa tank and the white dome of the Tissamaharama Raja Maha Vihara.
As the heart of the ancient Ruhuna Kingdom, Tissamaharama boasts a rich heritage dating back to the 3rd century BC and was a flourishing center of Buddhist culture.
Beyond its history, Tissa attracts nature lovers with scenic lakes, abundant birdlife, and proximity to wildlife parks. The calm waters provide a relaxing contrast to the arid landscapes nearby.
Distance
18 km south of Kataragama
Travel Time
Approx. 30 minutes by road
Transport
Frequent buses connect Tissa and Kataragama. Taxis and tuk-tuks are also widely available.
Tissamaharama offers a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly guesthouses.
Tissa is the perfect gateway to Yala National Park. Plan a safari adventure from here!
Explore Yala SafariStep back in time and explore the ancient capital of Ruhuna alongside stunning natural beauty.