Things to see and do East Coast

It is the eastern tip of Sri Lanka. 225 km separate Sangamankanda from Colombo. The location is only for its geographic characteristics and if you are nearby. It does not offer a particular panorama.

Legend has it that these hot springs were "created" by King Ravana to celebrate the funeral of his mother, Kanniya, at a time of great drought. "Created" is the right word because, to get the water he needed, he touched a rock with his sword and seven springs of pure water immediately flowed out. The water can reach a temperature of 30°C. The place resembles a large, blue-tiled, dry basin containing seven wells from which pilgrims bring up the water with buckets and sprinkle themselves generously.

The park is located in a dry area, mainly subject to the influence of the monsoon in the North-East. Pluviometry annual average is 1 766 mm. The best time to visit is between May and at the end of November. Gal Oya Valley could be occupied by Singhalese kings at three places: Digha Vapi, Govindahela and Nilgala. The mountainous region in the west was one of the last strongholds of Veddhas. Created in 1954, this park of 64 000 ha is close to several water points, including the huge reservoir Senanayake Samudra. The elephants are numerous and the most interesting excursion to make is a ride in boat that allows you to see the pachyderms watering itself or in the bathroom. The park is very little developed for tourism and, except a campsite, there is no accommodation inside. Rooms are available to Inginiyagala and Ampara. You can find a guide and a 4x4 with Ampara and Inginiyagala.

Located in the Oya Heda basin, Lahugala Kitulana National Park covers 1,554 ha. Although it is one of the smallest national parks in Sri Lanka, it has the advantage of being easily accessible (it is crossed by the main road leading to Colombo) and home to many animals including many elephants and endemic birds. On its southern side is the historical site of Magul Maha Vihara, built for the marriage of King Kavantissa (205-161 BC) and Viharamaha Devi. The nearest accommodation is in Pottuvil-Arugam Bay.