Tissamaharama
Your complete travel guide to Tissamaharama, Sri Lanka — discover the best things to do, where to stay, and how to get there.
About Tissamaharama
Tissamaharama - usually called "Tissa" - is the gateway to Yala National Park, Sri Lanka's most famous wildlife reserve. This ancient town in the deep south is where most safari-goers base themselves before early morning game drives in search of leopards and elephants.
But Tissa is more than just a safari base. The town has a rich history as a former capital of the Ruhunu Kingdom, with impressive ancient stupas and a beautiful man-made lake (Tissa Wewa) built over 2,000 years ago. The lake attracts birds, elephants, and stunning sunsets.
The surrounding area offers several other wildlife experiences including Bundala National Park for birdwatching and Kirinda Beach, a windswept shore with an ancient temple. For travelers exploring Sri Lanka's southern circuit, Tissa provides an authentic small-town experience with world-class wildlife on the doorstep.
Best Time to Visit
February to July — The dry season offers best wildlife viewing as animals gather at water sources. Peak leopard sightings in February-March.
Quick Facts
Best Time
February - July
Min. Days
2 days
From Colombo
5-6 hours
Known For
Yala safaris, ancient lake, Buddhist ruins
Things to Do in Tissamaharama
Yala National Park
Sri Lanka's most visited park with the highest leopard density in the world. Also elephants, sloth bears, crocodiles, and diverse birdlife.
Tip: Book morning safari starting at 6 AM for best leopard sightings. Block 1 has most wildlife.
Tissa Wewa (Lake)
A beautiful 2,200-year-old reservoir surrounded by forest. Popular for sunset walks, birdwatching, and occasional elephant sightings.
Tip: Walk the lakeside at dusk for birds and elephants. Watch for crocodiles!
Tissamaharama Raja Maha Vihara
Ancient Buddhist temple with a large white stupa (dagoba). Important pilgrimage site with a resident population of peacocks.
Bundala National Park
Ramsar wetland and birdwatcher's paradise with flamingos, painted storks, and over 200 bird species. Less crowded than Yala.
Tip: Best for birdwatching September-March. Flamingos arrive in winter.
Kirinda Beach & Temple
A wild, windswept beach with an ancient temple where Queen Viharamahadevi landed. Dramatic coastal scenery.
Kataragama Temple
One of Sri Lanka's holiest sites, sacred to Buddhists, Hindus, and Muslims. Colorful evening pujas (ceremonies).
Tip: Visit during evening puja for the full experience.
Getting to Tissamaharama
By Bus
Buses from Colombo via Matara and Hambantota.
By Taxi/Car
Direct from south coast beaches or Ella via scenic route.
By Train
Train to Matara, then bus to Tissamaharama (1.5 hours).
Getting Around Tissamaharama
Tuk-tuks for local transport. Safari jeeps arranged through hotels or tour operators. Bicycle rentals available for exploring town and lake.
Where to Stay in Tissamaharama
Mid-Range Hotels
- Kithala Resort$$
- Elephant Reach Hotel$$
Boutique Hotels
- Tissa Lake View Villa$$
Luxury Hotels
- Wild Coast Tented Lodge$$$
- Cinnamon Wild Yala$$$
Where to Eat in Tissamaharama
- New Peacock Restaurant(Sri Lankan)$
- Refresh Hotel Restaurant(Local)$
- Hotel restaurants(International)$$
Tissamaharama FAQs
How do I book a Yala safari from Tissamaharama?
Most hotels arrange safaris, or book directly with jeep drivers. Start early (5:30-6 AM) for best wildlife sightings. Half-day safaris are most common.
Is Yala better than Udawalawe?
Yala is best for leopards and variety of wildlife. Udawalawe is better for guaranteed elephant sightings. Many visitors do both.
When is Yala National Park closed?
Yala typically closes for 6 weeks during September-October monsoon season. Block 1 (most popular) may have separate closure dates.
How many days should I spend in Tissamaharama?
2 days minimum: one for Yala safari and one for the lake and local temples. Add more for Bundala, Kataragama, or beach time.
External Resources
Learn more about Tissamaharama from these authoritative sources: