We Must Take Adventures In Order To Know Where We Truly Belong.
Sembuwatta Lake
Tucked away in Elkaduwa, Matale, Sembuwatta Lake is a serene gem surrounded by lush tea estates and a forest reserve brimming with pine trees. It’s just a scenic 2-hour drive (32 km) from Kandy.
Highlights
For those exploring Kandy, Sembuwatta Lake is a hidden treasure, perfect for off-the-beaten-path adventures. It’s one of Sri Lanka’s top spots for those craving tranquility and natural beauty. Arabic-speaking visitors, captivated by its serene charm, have nicknamed it “Jannati dunya,” or paradise on earth. At 1140 meters above sea level, this man-made lake nestles amid the Campbell’s Lane forest reserve and the Sembuwatta Tea Plantation. Swimming is prohibited due to the lake’s depth and safety concerns, but a natural spring-fed swimming pool is available. Visitors can also enjoy zip-lining, canoeing, boat rides, nature treks, and bird-watching.
Overview
Perched high in the central highlands of Elkaduwa, within the Matale District, Sembuwatta Lake offers breathtaking views, ideal for stunning photography. Bordering the Knuckles range, it remains a lesser-known destination for those venturing into Sri Lanka’s central province.
Getting There
A 2-hour (32 km) drive from Kandy, or 1.5 to 3.5 hours depending on your location in the Knuckles region, Sembuwatta Lake is a must-see for adventurers seeking secluded experiences. The drive itself offers spectacular views of the majestic Knuckles range. Typically reached by road, visitors may need to switch to a tuk-tuk for the final stretch, especially if navigating rough terrain or traveling in larger vehicles like buses. Tuk-tuks are readily available and necessary for the last half-hour if traveling by bus due to narrow routes.
Entrance Costs
Hiring a tuk-tuk costs around 12-15 USD, while entrance tickets are approximately 4 USD for foreign visitors, with half-price tickets for children under 12.
The Attraction
A short trek through the tea estate leads you to the tranquil banks of Sembuwatta Lake. Day visitors can find several summer huts and resting areas, though it’s recommended to bring your own meals as there are no restaurants. For those wanting to fully immerse in nature, cabanas and camping facilities are available, complete with cooking equipment and a cook.
Warning!
With depths reaching up to 40 feet, swimming in Sembuwatta Lake is prohibited.
Activities
A natural spring-fed pool is available for swimming. Boating is a popular activity, with options for paddle boating or canoeing. There’s also an archery range and a play area for children. Trekking and bird-watching trails can be arranged through your travel consultant at Epic Sri Lanka Holidays.
Given its picturesque setting, the site is popular among honeymooners and for wedding photo shoots.
Opening / Closing Times
Sembuwatta Lake welcomes visitors daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with overnight stays available by advance booking. The site is open year-round.