Sembuwatta Lake, located in Elkaduwa, Matale, is a beautiful lake, nestled amidst tea estates and a pine tree laden forest reserve, a mere 2-hour (32km) drive, from the city of Kandy.
Crested atop of the central highlands in Elkaduwa of the Matale District, is the very scenic and tranquil Sembuwatta Lake, that lends itself for some spectacular photo shoots. Located on the border of the Knuckles range, the site is a lesser-known tourist attraction for those visiting Sri Lanka’s central province.
The site, which is a mere 2 hours (32 km) drive from the city of Kandy, and could take 1.5 up to 3.5 hours depending on where you are staying in the Knuckles region, is a must-visit for those seeking off the beaten track experiences in Sri Lanka.
The drive itself, is a scenic one, giving you spectacular vistas of the impassive Knuckles range.
The site is typically reached by road up to a certain point, after which you may opt to park your vehicle and take a local tuk tuk ride, if you are not up for motoring through rough terrains. For those travelling in larger vehicles such as buses, you will have to take an approx. 1/2 hour’s tuk tuk ride as access for buses beyond this point is not possible due to the narrow routes. Tuk Tuks are readily available along this route.
Tuk Tuk hires range around 12-15 US Dollars, while entrance tickets cost approx. 4 US dollars for foreign nationals, and half price for children below 12 years of age.
You approach the banks of the Sembuwatta lake along a very short trek through the tea estate. A number of summer huts and resting areas are found in the vicinity for day-visitors. We recommend that you bring your own packed meals as there are no restaurant facilities. However, for those who truly wish to immerse themselves in the natural splendour of the region, cabanas and camping facilities are available together with the facility of a cook and cooking equipment.
With depths going up to 40 feet, bathing and swimming in the Sembuwatta lake is not permitted.
A pool fed by a natural spring has been made available for swimming. Boating on the lake is also a popular activity; you may choose paddle boating or canoeing. There is also an archery range and separate play area for the younger travellers. Trekking and Bird watching trails may also be arranged through your travel consultant at Epic Sri Lanka Holidays.
The site has become a draw for honeymooners and even for wedding photo shoots, given its very scenic backdrop.
The site is open for visitors (with the exception of overnight visitors who need to book in advance) from 8.00 AM until 5.00 PM. It remains open for visitors throughout the year.
