Hidden amidst the peaceful plains of Mahiyanganaya in the Badulla District, Sorabora Wewa is one of Sri
Lanka’s most historic and scenic ancient reservoirs.
Built over 2,000 years ago during the reign of King Dutugemunu, this vast tank was ingeniously
constructed by a local hero named Bulatha, using only simple tools and natural rock formations.
Today, Sorabora Wewa is more than a monument — it’s a tranquil escape where travelers can watch
fishermen at work, walk along the dam, and enjoy golden sunsets reflecting on still waters.
- Scenic Dam Walk 🚶♂️🏞️: Stroll along the stone embankment and enjoy views of the reservoir surrounded by mountains and forest 🌳👀
- Sunset Views 🌇📸: Capture stunning colors as the sun sets over the still waters ✨🤩
- Boating & Fishing 🛶🎣: Watch local fishermen in wooden canoes or join a short boat ride 🚤✅
- Ancient Stone Sluice Gate 🧱💡: An impressive engineering feature built without modern technology — a testament to ancient Sinhalese skill ⚙️📜
- Birdwatching 🐦🦢: Spot egrets, kingfishers, and cormorants gliding across the water 🌊👍
- From Mahiyanganaya Town 📍🚶♀️: 10 minutes by tuk-tuk or a 25-minute walk 🛺💨
- From Badulla 🗺️⏱️: Around 1.5 hours via the Badulla–Mahiyanganaya Road 🛣️✅
- From Ella or Haputale 🧭🚗: 2.5–3 hours by car or private van 🚙💡
- By Bus 🚌🚉: Regular buses operate between Badulla, Mahiyanganaya, and Kandy 🚌👍
- Timing 🌅😌: Visit early morning or evening for peaceful surroundings and fewer visitors 🤫✅
- Essentials 💧☀️: Carry water, a hat, and sunscreen — it can get hot midday 🧴💡
- Keep Clean 🚮🌿: Keep the area clean — Sorabora Wewa is a protected heritage site 🙏👍
- Photography 📸🚁: Bring a camera or drone for breathtaking aerial photos 🤩✨
- Combine Visit 🧭🗺️: Combine this visit with nearby Dambana Vedda Village for a full-day cultural experience 🛖✅
- 4:00 PM – Arrival & Walk 🏞️🚶♂️: Arrive at Sorabora Wewa and walk along the dam 🌊✅
- 4:30 PM – Activities Watch 🛶🎣: Watch locals fishing or boating 🚤💡
- 5:30 PM – Sunset & Photos 🌇📸: Enjoy sunset views and photography ✨🤩
- 6:00 PM – Relaxation & Return 😌🚗: Relax by the water before returning to Mahiyanganaya town for dinner 🍽️👍
