Giritale Wewa Sri Lanka
An ancient reservoir offering stunning landscapes, wildlife sightings, and breathtaking sunsets, steeped in history.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best for wildlife spotting
Giritale Wewa Sri Lanka
Best Time
Best for wildlife spotting
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An ancient reservoir offering stunning landscapes, wildlife sightings, and breathtaking sunsets, steeped in history.
"A serene escape where ancient engineering meets natural splendor, perfect for photography and wildlife."
🌅 Capture the Sunset
The sunset views here are incredible! Plan your visit for the late afternoon to catch the magic.
🐘 Wildlife Spotting
Early mornings and evenings are prime time for spotting elephants and birds in the surrounding sanctuary.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Scenic Tank Embankment
Giritale Tank shore
A vast ancient reservoir with a picturesque island, offering stunning views and a sense of historical grandeur.
Sunset Over the Waters
Giritale Tank shore
Witness breathtaking sunsets that paint the sky with vibrant colors, reflecting beautifully on the calm water.
Wildlife Encounters
Minneriya-Giritale Sanctuary
Keep an eye out for elephants and diverse birdlife in this protected sanctuary surrounding the tank.
The Giant Buddha Statue
Giritale Tank edge
A modern landmark, this large Buddha statue offers a striking contrast to the ancient reservoir.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Wildlife
Respect Local Customs
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🌅 Capture the Sunset
The sunset views here are incredible! Plan your visit for the late afternoon to catch the magic.
🐘 Wildlife Spotting
Early mornings and evenings are prime time for spotting elephants and birds in the surrounding sanctuary.
💧 Respectful Bathing
While it's a large water body, there are few safe designated spots for bathing. Be mindful of local regulations.
🚗 Easy Roadside Access
Parking is readily available along the roadside, making it convenient for a quick stop or longer visit.
Tips
from all over the internet
🌅 Capture the Sunset
The sunset views here are incredible! Plan your visit for the late afternoon to catch the magic.
🐘 Wildlife Spotting
Early mornings and evenings are prime time for spotting elephants and birds in the surrounding sanctuary.
💧 Respectful Bathing
While it's a large water body, there are few safe designated spots for bathing. Be mindful of local regulations.
🚗 Easy Roadside Access
Parking is readily available along the roadside, making it convenient for a quick stop or longer visit.
🥤 Local Refreshments
You can find local drinks like fresh orange juice for a small price, perfect for a hot day.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Giritale Wewa for its stunning natural beauty, historical significance as an ancient reservoir, and the picturesque island at its center. The opportunity to witness wildlife, especially elephants, and enjoy breathtaking sunsets adds to its charm. It's considered a peaceful and scenic stop, offering a refreshing break.
"Girithale Wewa (Giritale Tank) is an ancient reservoir located in Giritale–Minneriya, Polonnaruwa District, Sri Lanka.
📜 History & Architecture
Originally built by King Agbo II (Aggabodhi II) between 608–618 AD during the Anuradhapura period .
Later renovated by King Parakramabahu the Great (1153–1186) and underwent further restorations during the colonial era in 1905, 1942, and 1952 .
Engineered to collect rainwater, stream runoff, and tributaries from the Mahaweli River, featuring a stone embankment across a hill hollow .
🌊 Key Features
Max depth: Approx. 23 m, once the deepest tank in its era .
Catchment area: ~24 km²; volume: ~24 million m³ .
Contains a scenic island/hill centrally visible from the shore, creating a unique visual character .
🌿 Natural & Cultural Surroundings
Part of the Minneriya-Giritale Sanctuary, a vital habitat for birds, elephants, and buffalo .
Ideal for birdwatching, safari glimpses, gentle boat rides, and photography—especially at sunrise or sunset .
A large Buddha statue on the tank’s edge acts as a modern landmark .
🧭 Visiting Info
Located ~12 km NW of Polonnaruwa, along the A11 road toward Batticaloa .
Approx. 160 km from Colombo — accessible by train + taxi (2 hours) or road (4 hours) .
Parking available roadside; morning and evening visits offer the best wildlife and sunset experiences ."
Sampath Wijesinghe
"A larger irrigation tank near Polonnaruwa. There are few safe places to bath."
Nisal Perera
"Historical water tank in Polonnaru area, Blu water covered by mountain, I can say blu mountain. When I came to this place, I had feeling like visiting lake in upcountry, full green area, valley breeze, fresh air. small mountain inside the lake looks like an island covered by sea. I love this unique nature with isolated place from city. Also I was lucky to capture some elephant crossing the lake road. I will comeback here in the evening to enjoy the sunset."
asitha herath
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Giritale Wewa is located about 12 km northwest of Polonnaruwa, easily accessible via the A11 road towards Batticaloa. You can take a local bus, hire a tuk-tuk, or drive your own vehicle.
The journey from Colombo takes approximately 4 hours by road. Alternatively, you can take a train to Polonnaruwa and then a taxi or tuk-tuk for the remaining distance, which adds about 2 hours of travel.
Yes, it's situated along a main road (A11) and is served by local buses, making it accessible for travelers relying on public transport.
Absolutely! Driving is a convenient option, and there's ample roadside parking available, making it easy to stop and explore.
Giritale Wewa is located near the ancient city of Polonnaruwa and the Minneriya National Park, making it a convenient stop when exploring the cultural triangle.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Generally, there are no specific entry tickets required to visit the Giritale Wewa itself or its immediate surroundings. However, if you plan to visit the adjacent Minneriya-Giritale Sanctuary for safaris, separate entrance fees will apply.
Giritale Wewa is an open natural area and doesn't have fixed opening or closing hours. You can visit at any time, though early mornings and late evenings are recommended for wildlife and sunset views.
Parking is typically free as it's available roadside. You won't encounter specific parking charges for a casual visit.
While it's a large water body, there are very few safe and designated spots for swimming. It's advisable to check local conditions and regulations before considering any water activities.
Entry to most Buddhist temples in Sri Lanka is free, but donations are always appreciated. Remember to dress respectfully and remove shoes and hats before entering.
📸 📸 Photography
The golden hours around sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for photography, highlighting the tank and its surroundings. The island in the tank also makes for a unique photographic subject.
Photography is generally allowed around the tank. However, when visiting nearby Buddhist temples, photography might be prohibited inside certain areas, especially near religious artifacts.
You can capture stunning landscapes of the tank, the central island, the surrounding greenery, and the iconic Buddha statue. If you're lucky, you might also photograph wildlife like elephants and birds.
Absolutely! The unique combination of ancient engineering, natural beauty, and the chance for wildlife sightings makes it a very rewarding spot for photographers.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes, while a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife photography if you spot any animals. A tripod can be beneficial for low-light conditions during sunrise and sunset.
🎫 🌿 Nature & Wildlife
Giritale Wewa is part of the Minneriya-Giritale Sanctuary, which is a habitat for elephants, buffalo, and a wide variety of bird species. Keep an eye out, especially during dawn and dusk.
The best times to see elephants are typically during the early morning and late evening hours when they come to the water's edge or cross the roads.
Yes, the sanctuary surrounding Giritale Wewa is known for its diverse birdlife, making it an excellent spot for birdwatching enthusiasts.
While there might not be specific tours for Giritale Wewa itself, you can arrange safaris in the nearby Minneriya National Park, which often includes areas around Giritale.
The area is characterized by lush greenery, rolling hills, and the vast expanse of the ancient tank, creating a serene and picturesque landscape.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While there aren't many dining options directly at the tank, you can find local eateries and roadside stalls offering refreshments and snacks, especially on the main road.
Look out for fresh fruit juices, like the local orange juice mentioned, and traditional Sri Lankan snacks. For full meals, it's best to head to Polonnaruwa town.
Yes, you can often find vendors selling local beverages, such as fresh fruit juices, which are refreshing on a warm day.
You can find scenic spots along the tank's edge to enjoy a picnic, but be sure to clean up after yourself and dispose of any trash responsibly.
Polonnaruwa offers a range of restaurants, from local eateries serving authentic Sri Lankan cuisine to more tourist-oriented establishments.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While there aren't specific play areas, the natural beauty and the unique landscape provide a good backdrop for family photos and a relaxed outing. If visiting nearby temples, ensure children are dressed modestly and understand the need to remove shoes and hats before entering.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Don't miss the large Buddha statue for a unique cultural shot. Keep your camera ready for potential wildlife sightings, especially elephants and birds, during early mornings and late evenings. A telephoto lens can be beneficial for capturing wildlife from a distance.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers
It's a great place to experience the tranquility of Sri Lanka's rural landscapes and connect with its history. Be mindful of local customs if you venture into nearby religious sites.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Ancient Engineering
Later, King Parakramabahu the Great, renowned for his extensive irrigation projects, further enhanced the tank. It also underwent several restorations during the colonial period, with significant work done in 1905, 1942, and 1952, ensuring its continued functionality. This blend of ancient construction and later renovations highlights its enduring importance as a water source for agriculture and life in the region.
Today, Giritale Wewa stands as a living monument to this historical ingenuity. Its vast expanse and the surrounding landscape offer a serene environment that allows visitors to connect with Sri Lanka's rich past while enjoying its natural beauty. The tank's historical significance makes it a compelling destination for those interested in history and ancient civilizations.
Nature's Canvas: Wildlife and Scenery
Beyond elephants, the sanctuary is a haven for numerous bird species, making it an excellent spot for birdwatching. The tranquil waters of the tank and the surrounding greenery create an ideal habitat for both resident and migratory birds. The scenic beauty of the tank itself, with its central island, is captivating. The reflections of the sky and the lush vegetation on the water's surface create a picturesque scene, particularly during sunrise and sunset.
Visitors often describe the atmosphere as peaceful and refreshing, with a gentle breeze and clean air. The combination of historical architecture, natural landscapes, and the possibility of wildlife encounters makes Giritale Wewa a unique and memorable destination. It offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the natural splendor of Sri Lanka.
Photography Hotspots and Tips
The large Buddha statue situated on the tank's edge provides a striking modern element against the ancient backdrop, offering unique photographic opportunities. For wildlife photographers, the early morning and late evening are crucial times to be on the lookout for elephants and various bird species that frequent the area. Patience and a good telephoto lens can be rewarding.
When visiting nearby religious sites, remember that photography might be restricted in certain areas, particularly inside temples or near sacred relics. Always be observant of local customs and signage. Overall, Giritale Wewa offers a rich tapestry of landscapes, cultural landmarks, and potential wildlife encounters, making it a highly photogenic destination.
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