
Tissa Wewa Tissamaharama
A historic reservoir offering serene boat rides, stunning sunsets, and abundant birdlife, with delicious local fried fish nearby.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Calm waters, bird activity

Tissa Wewa Tissamaharama
Best Time
Calm waters, bird activity
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic reservoir offering serene boat rides, stunning sunsets, and abundant birdlife, with delicious local fried fish nearby.
"Glide across serene waters, spot cranes, and witness a magical sunset at Tissa Wewa."

Boat Ride Routes & Prices
Boat rides offer different routes with varying prices. A shorter route for 8 people can cost around 2000 rupees. :boat:
Cycling for Exploration
Rent a bike from PedalUp for an eco-friendly way to explore the area around Tissa Wewa. :bicycle:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Tissa Wewa Boat Safari
Tissa Wewa Reservoir
Glide across the serene waters, spotting islands teeming with cranes and their young. A magical experience, especially at sunset.

Lagoon Fried Fish
Near Tissa Wewa
Savor the taste of freshly caught fish, crispy on the outside, tender within. A must-try local culinary delight.

Sunset Views
Tissa Wewa Reservoir
Witness the sky transform into a canvas of colors over the tranquil lake. A truly breathtaking and peaceful spectacle.
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Timing Your Tissa Wewa Visit
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Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Boat Ride Routes & Prices
Boat rides offer different routes with varying prices. A shorter route for 8 people can cost around 2000 rupees. :boat:
Cycling for Exploration
Rent a bike from PedalUp for an eco-friendly way to explore the area around Tissa Wewa. :bicycle:
Crane Spotting
Look out for islands filled with cranes, especially those with young ones. A highlight of the boat safari. :bird:
Sunset Spectacle
The sunset over Tissa Wewa is incredibly soothing and offers beautiful reflections. :city_sunset:
Tips
from all over the internet
Boat Ride Routes & Prices
Boat rides offer different routes with varying prices. A shorter route for 8 people can cost around 2000 rupees. :boat:
Cycling for Exploration
Rent a bike from PedalUp for an eco-friendly way to explore the area around Tissa Wewa. :bicycle:
Crane Spotting
Look out for islands filled with cranes, especially those with young ones. A highlight of the boat safari. :bird:
Sunset Spectacle
The sunset over Tissa Wewa is incredibly soothing and offers beautiful reflections. :city_sunset:
Taste of Fresh Fish
Enjoy delicious, freshly caught fried lake fish – a local specialty. :fish:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Tissa Wewa is widely praised for its serene beauty and the magical experience of boat rides, especially during sunset. Visitors rave about the opportunity to see cranes and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere. The local fried fish is a culinary highlight, and cycling offers a pleasant way to explore. Some find the boat ride prices a bit high, and caution is advised near the water's edge.
"We took this amazing boat ride in the lake. The boat can accommodate 8 people at once and they charge 3500-4500 for a 30 min full ride. The lake has beautiful island filled with cranes and they are with babies. Amazing thing to watch. The sunset is also amazing. They provide safety jackets as well"
Nirmani Samarakoon
"Thissa Lake is a serene and beautiful spot, perfect for nature lovers and those looking to enjoy a peaceful retreat. The lake offers a tranquil atmosphere, surrounded by lush greenery and scenic views, making it an ideal location for a relaxing day out.
One of the highlights of visiting Thissa Lake is the opportunity to taste some delicious fried lake fish. The fish, caught fresh from the lake, is cooked to perfection, crispy on the outside while remaining tender and flavorful on the inside. It's a must-try for anyone who loves fresh, tasty seafood, and it's a great way to experience the local culinary offerings while enjoying the natural beauty of the area.
If you're ever in the area, be sure to visit Thissa Lake for a peaceful escape and enjoy the local fish dishes!"
Mohamed Shazeen
"Reduce your carbon footprint and contribute to sustainable tourism practices by choosing cycling as your mode of transportation.
There are bicycle rental service providers PedalUp to engage with inorder to get bicycles according to your requirements ."
Samantha Guruge
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Tissa Wewa is located in Tissamaharama. If you're coming from Kandy, Nuwara Eliya, or Ella, it's often part of a common Sri Lanka travel route. You can reach Tissamaharama by bus or taxi from major hubs like Colombo or Galle. Many travelers use it as a stopover before or after visiting Yala National Park.
Yes, Tissamaharama is quite walkable, and many visitors opt to rent bicycles to explore the area, including Tissa Wewa. This is a great way to reduce your carbon footprint and enjoy the scenery at your own pace.
Tissa Wewa is conveniently located about a 15-minute drive from Yala National Park. Many safari tours include transport to and from Tissamaharama, or you can easily hire a tuk-tuk or taxi.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to Tissa Wewa itself is generally free, allowing you to enjoy the views and walking paths. However, activities like boat rides have separate charges.
Tissa Wewa is an open-air reservoir and is accessible at all times. However, for the best experience, especially for boat rides and sunset viewing, visiting during daylight hours and up to sunset is recommended.
Boat ride prices can vary depending on the route and duration. A 30-minute ride for up to 8 people on a shorter route might cost around 2000-4500 rupees. It's advisable to confirm the price before starting your ride.
While the lake itself is free to access, some nearby attractions or parks might have separate entrance fees. However, for Tissa Wewa and its immediate surroundings, no specific entrance fee is typically charged.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire perimeter of Tissa Wewa offers beautiful photo opportunities. The islands with cranes are particularly photogenic. The reflections on the water during sunrise and sunset are also stunning.
Yes, it is generally safe to take photos near the water, especially along the walking paths. Be cautious if you choose to go near the canal or the lake's edge, as it can be risky when the water level is high.
The 'golden hours' – shortly after sunrise and before sunset – offer the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for photography. The vibrant colors of the sunset are a major draw for photographers.
Drone usage regulations can vary. While some videos show aerial views, it's always best to check local regulations before flying a drone to ensure compliance.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
A must-try is the fresh lagoon fried fish, caught directly from the lake and prepared deliciously. It's a popular local delicacy enjoyed by many visitors.
Yes, you'll find local vendors and small eateries around Tissa Wewa, especially offering the famous fried fish. These offer an authentic taste of local cuisine.
While there aren't designated picnic areas, you can find spots along the walking paths to enjoy a packed meal. Remember to dispose of any trash responsibly to keep the area clean.
Food prices in Tissamaharama are generally affordable, especially at local eateries and food stalls. Trying the local fried fish is a great way to experience local flavors without breaking the bank.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The main activities include taking a boat safari to see wildlife like cranes, enjoying the scenic sunset, and cycling around the reservoir. There are also walking paths for a leisurely stroll.
Absolutely! Tissa Wewa is known for its birdlife, particularly cranes on the small islands within the reservoir. It's a great spot for nature lovers and birdwatchers.
While there is a canal that might be suitable for bathing, swimming directly in the lake is generally considered risky, especially when it's full of water. Stick to designated safe areas if you choose to bathe.
Many visitors find a boat ride combined with watching the sunset to be the most memorable experience. Cycling around the lake also offers a unique perspective.
Yes, Tissa Wewa is described as a serene and beautiful spot, perfect for a peaceful retreat and relaxation. The tranquil atmosphere and scenic views make it ideal for a calming day.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🌿 Nature Lovers & Birdwatchers
📸 Photographers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Significance of Tissa Wewa
Today, Tissa Wewa serves a dual purpose: it remains an important water source for local agriculture and has become a significant tourist attraction. Its historical depth adds another layer of appreciation for visitors who can marvel at the ingenuity of ancient civilizations while enjoying its natural beauty. The reservoir's long history makes it a fascinating site for those interested in Sri Lankan heritage and ancient water management systems.
Wildlife Encounters at Tissa Wewa
Beyond the cranes, the surrounding lush greenery and water attract a variety of other bird species. The tranquil environment provides an ideal setting for these creatures to thrive. While not a safari park in the traditional sense like nearby Yala, Tissa Wewa offers a more serene and accessible wildlife viewing experience, perfect for those who appreciate nature's quieter spectacles. The chance to see cranes up close, especially during the boat rides, is a significant draw for many visitors.
Experiencing Tissa Wewa: Boat Rides and Cycling
For a more active and eco-friendly exploration, cycling around Tissa Wewa is highly recommended. Several rental services, like PedalUp, are available, offering bicycles for your convenience. Cycling allows you to set your own pace, stop for photos, and truly immerse yourself in the local surroundings. It's a fantastic way to enjoy the scenic beauty and fresh air, connecting with the landscape in a personal and sustainable manner.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit