Tissa Wewa
An ancient reservoir offering serene beauty and historical significance, perfect for peaceful walks and stunning sunset views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Cooler temperatures, soft light
Tissa Wewa
Best Time
Cooler temperatures, soft light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An ancient reservoir offering serene beauty and historical significance, perfect for peaceful walks and stunning sunset views.
"Bathing in Tissa Wewa is a refreshing and peaceful experience, surrounded by nature and local life."
🌅 Sunset Serenity
Catch the magical golden hour at sunset from the tank bund for unforgettable views.
🚶♀️ Peaceful Strolls
Enjoy leisurely walks along the tank bund, especially in the cooler mornings and evenings.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Tissa Wewa Tank Bund
Along the embankment of the reservoir
Stroll along the 2-mile embankment for breathtaking views of the water and surrounding landscape. Perfect for sunset.
Tranquil Waters
The reservoir itself
Experience the serene beauty of the ancient man-made lake, a peaceful escape with calm waters.
Ancient Reservoir Views
Various points around the reservoir
Witness the grandeur of one of Sri Lanka's oldest reservoirs, offering picturesque vistas.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Tissa Wewa
Respecting the Sacred Site
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🌅 Sunset Serenity
Catch the magical golden hour at sunset from the tank bund for unforgettable views.
🚶♀️ Peaceful Strolls
Enjoy leisurely walks along the tank bund, especially in the cooler mornings and evenings.
🚫 No Swimming Zone
Bathing is generally prohibited due to its importance as a water source.
🚁 Drone Ban
Operating drones is strictly forbidden to maintain the site's tranquility.
Tips
from all over the internet
🌅 Sunset Serenity
Catch the magical golden hour at sunset from the tank bund for unforgettable views.
🚶♀️ Peaceful Strolls
Enjoy leisurely walks along the tank bund, especially in the cooler mornings and evenings.
🚫 No Swimming Zone
Bathing is generally prohibited due to its importance as a water source.
🚁 Drone Ban
Operating drones is strictly forbidden to maintain the site's tranquility.
📸 Photographer's Delight
The serene surroundings and beautiful light make it a fantastic spot for photography.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Tissa Wewa is praised for its refreshing and peaceful bathing experience, surrounded by nature and local life. Visitors enjoy the calm waters, especially during sunrise and sunset, finding it a relaxing break and a great way to connect with rural Sri Lanka. However, a lack of proper bathing facilities for tourists is noted as a drawback.
"Bathing in Tissa Wewa is a refreshing and peaceful experience. Surrounded by nature and local life, the calm waters offer a relaxing break, especially during sunrise or sunset. It’s a great way for travelers to cool off, connect with locals, and enjoy the serene charm of rural Sri Lanka."
Phoebus ༄
"It would be great if proper bathing facilities were built for tourists."
Achintha Janaka
"One of the largest ancient man-made tanks in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka.
Beautiful tranquil surrounding with amazing views all around.
Bathing is allowed. Fishing is not allowed without permission.
Great location to hangout !"
sansa dias
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Tissa Wewa is located about 5 km from Anuradhapura city. You can easily reach it by tuk-tuk or a short drive. Many visitors combine a visit to Tissa Wewa with other Anuradhapura sites like Isurumuniya.
While direct public transport to the immediate vicinity might be limited, you can take a bus to Anuradhapura city and then hire a tuk-tuk for the short journey to Tissa Wewa.
A tuk-tuk is a convenient way to get around and explore Tissa Wewa and its surroundings. Walking along the tank bund is also highly recommended.
Yes, Tissa Wewa is located near other significant historical sites in Anuradhapura, such as the Isurumuniya Temple and the sacred Bodhi tree.
Tissa Wewa is considered safe for visitors. There are no crocodiles or alligators in the tank, making it safe to roam around.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to Tissa Wewa itself is generally free, as it's an open reservoir area. However, if you plan to visit other archaeological sites within the Anuradhapura ancient city, you may need to purchase an entrance ticket for the Anuradhapura Sacred City.
Tissa Wewa is an open reservoir and can be visited at any time. However, the best times for a visit are during sunrise and sunset for the most beautiful light and cooler temperatures.
There is typically no entrance fee for Tissa Wewa itself. It's a public space for enjoying the scenery.
Bathing is usually prohibited in Tissa Wewa due to its significance as a water supply for Anuradhapura. +1
While general photography is allowed, operating drones is strictly forbidden to preserve the tranquility of the site.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can enjoy peaceful walks along the tank bund, admire the ancient reservoir, and soak in the serene atmosphere. 
Absolutely! Tissa Wewa is known for its tranquil surroundings and calm waters, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and unwinding.
Expect beautiful, picturesque vistas of the vast ancient reservoir, often with stupas visible in the distance. The reflections on the water, especially at sunset, are stunning.
Crowds are generally low, especially during early mornings and late afternoons. It's a peaceful escape from busier tourist spots.
While Tissa Wewa is a natural attraction, dedicated tourist facilities like restrooms might be limited. It's advisable to use facilities in Anuradhapura city before your visit.
📸 📸 Photography
The 'golden hours' of sunrise and sunset offer the most spectacular light for photography, casting a warm glow over the reservoir.
You can capture wide-angle shots of the vast reservoir, reflections on the water, and the serene landscape. The tank bund itself offers great vantage points.
The tank bund provides excellent panoramic views. Look for areas with interesting reflections or the silhouette of stupas against the sky.
No, drone usage is strictly forbidden at Tissa Wewa to preserve the peace and sanctity of the site.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views. A tripod can be useful for low-light photography during sunrise or sunset.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Since there are no crocodiles or alligators, parents can feel at ease while exploring the area. 📸 Photography Enthusiasts
The reflections on the water, especially during these times, create stunning photographic opportunities. 🧘♀️ Solo Travelers Seeking Peace
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Significance of Tissa Wewa
Beyond its practical function, Tissa Wewa holds historical and cultural significance. It's a reminder of the advanced irrigation systems developed by ancient Sri Lankan civilizations. The reservoir's presence contributed to the grandeur and sustainability of Anuradhapura, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Today, it continues to be a vital water source and a place of serene beauty, offering visitors a glimpse into the island's rich past.
While its primary role was water supply, the tank's tranquil surroundings have also made it a popular spot for relaxation and contemplation. The sheer scale and age of Tissa Wewa evoke a sense of awe and connection to the generations who relied on its waters.
Experiencing Tissa Wewa: Activities and Atmosphere
Photographers will find ample opportunities to capture stunning shots, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. For a different perspective, boat rides are available on Tissa Wewa, offering a unique way to experience the tranquility of the reservoir and its natural beauty.
The calm waters and the gentle breeze create a soothing ambiance, perfect for unwinding and connecting with nature. While bathing is generally prohibited due to its role as a water source, the serene environment invites visitors to simply relax, observe local life, and appreciate the historical significance of this ancient man-made lake. The atmosphere at Tissa Wewa is one of profound peace and natural beauty. It's a place where you can escape the crowds, enjoy quiet contemplation, and witness the enduring legacy of ancient Sri Lankan engineering.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit