Gampola

A historic former royal capital surrounded by misty mountains, tea plantations, rivers, waterfalls, and remarkable religious and cultural heritage.

Top Attractions in Gampola

A curated collection of the most celebrated and visited sights across the destination.

Ambuluwawa Tower & Biodiversity Complex

One of Sri Lanka's most distinctive attractions, Ambuluwawa is famous for its iconic spiral tower rising above a mountain summit. The complex features panoramic viewpoints, gardens, biodiversity, and a unique multi-religious environment, making it a popular destination for sightseeing, photography, and nature experiences.

Embekke Devalaya

A remarkable historic shrine dating from the Gampola period, Embekke Devalaya is renowned for its exquisite wood carvings and traditional craftsmanship. Its elaborately carved wooden pillars, beams, and decorative motifs are among the finest surviving examples of Sri Lankan traditional woodwork.

Gadaladeniya Temple

A historic Buddhist temple built during the Gampola period, Gadaladeniya is notable for its distinctive South Indian architectural influences. Set on a rocky outcrop, the temple provides an excellent example of medieval Sri Lankan Buddhist architecture and craftsmanship.

Lankatilaka Vihara

A magnificent Buddhist temple dating from the Gampola period, Lankatilaka Vihara is dramatically positioned on a rocky hill surrounded by mountains and countryside. Its distinctive architecture, ancient murals, sculptures, and religious significance make it an important cultural and spiritual attraction.

Dawson's Tower

A historic British-era landmark standing along the old Colombo–Kandy road. Built in the 19th century, the tower commemorates Captain William Francis Dawson, the engineer associated with the construction of the road and other important infrastructure projects in Sri Lanka.

Pupuressa Tea Country

The hills around Pupuressa offer beautiful tea plantations, misty mountains, forests, and peaceful rural landscapes. Visitors can enjoy scenic drives, tea-country walks, plantation experiences, and photography while experiencing the tranquil atmosphere of the central highlands.

Gampola Railway Station

A historic railway station and an important stop on Sri Lanka's scenic Main Line. The railway journey through the surrounding mountains, valleys, tea plantations, and villages provides a memorable way to experience the landscapes of the central highlands.