5. Crossing the Kothmale Hanging Bridge
If you aren’t afraid of heights, I highly recommend walking across the Sangili Palama. It’s a traditional wooden suspension bridge that sways just enough to make your heart race as you look down at the Mahaweli River. It’s the best way to see the riverside tea patches up close.
6. Ranamune Raja Pihilla
I love the legends that surround this place. Local history tells us that Prince Dutugemunu lived here as a commoner before becoming king. You can still see the ancient stone water spout where he supposedly bathed. It’s a quiet, green sanctuary that feels virtually untouched by time.
7. Pusulpitiya Rajamaha Viharaya
When I want to connect with Sri Lanka’s royal heritage, I come here. This temple once served as a secret vault for the Sacred Tooth Relic during times of war. The atmosphere is heavy with history, and the ancient wood carvings are some of the finest I’ve seen.
8. The 360-Degree View from Peacock Hill
I tell every hiker I meet to skip the crowded peaks and head to Monaragala Kanda (Peacock Hill). The climb isn’t too grueling, and the reward is a full 360-degree view of the Gampola and Kotmale valleys. On a clear morning, the sight of the reservoir shimmering below is breathtaking.
9. Viewing Devon & St. Clair’s Falls
While most people view these from the main road, I prefer the vantage points from the higher Kotmale ridges. Looking across the valley at St. Clair’s—often called our “Little Niagara”—you really get a sense of the scale of our central highlands.
10. Dehadu Kadulla: The Historic Gateway
For my fellow history buffs, Dehadu Kadulla is a must. This ancient mountain pass was the gateway between the hill country and the southern plains. Standing here, you can imagine the ancient armies and messengers who once used this very path to navigate the island.
My Personal Travel Tips (Updated 2026)
- Best Time to Visit: I always suggest the first quarter of the year. Not only is the weather crisp, but you also have the best chance of seeing the submerged temple.
- Getting Around: While buses run, I recommend hiring a tuk-tuk. This is because many of these spots are hidden down narrow lanes.
- Stay Local: In conclusion, don’t just pass through. Spend a night here to experience the legendary Kotmale hospitality.
