Tissamaharama (also known as Tissa) is one of Sri Lanka‘s most popular nature hubs, best known as a gateway to Yala and Udawalawe National Park, and for its scenic lakeside setting. This town is ideally situated for safaris, birdwatching, historic sites, village walks, and day trips across a wildlife-rich landscape, such as Leopards and Elephants. This travel guide will help you plan your visit with the top things to do and local highlights to make the most of your time in Tissamaharama, Sri Lanka.
Where to stay in Tissamaharama?
We stayed in the Lake Wind Hotel right at Tissamaharama Lake with an amazing view of the lake.
Things to do in Tissamaharama
1) Yala National Park
The main reason people stay at Tissamaharama is to do a safari in Yala National Park. Yala is one of the largest and busiest parks in Sri Lanka. You have the best chances here to spot a leopard in the whole wide world. Besides the leopard, you can also spot some elephants, deer, crocodiles, buffalo, boars, the Sri Lankan sloth bear, and birds. Read my Yala National Park safari tour guide to plan your trip to Yala & to see what I’ve spotted during my safari!
2) Tissamaharama Lake
We stayed at the Lake Wind Hotel, which has a view over Tissamaharama Lake (Tissa Lake). The lake is a reservoir to irrigate the rice fields in Tissamaharama. When we were there, the lake was filled with lotus flowers, and locals were taking a swim to refresh themselves. After our safari in Yala, we passed the lake after sunset, and it made the scenery more beautiful!
Fun Fact: The trees around Tissa Lake are home to the fruitbats. We didn’t see those, unfortunately.
3) Debarawewa Lake
When we left our hotel to go to the safari, we first passed Tissa Lake on our right and then passed Debarawewa Lake on our left. The lakes are so enormous and beautiful! We don’t have anything like that in Belgium.
4) Tissamaharama Raja Maha Vihara & Tissamaharama dagoba
The Tissamaharama Raja Maha Vihara is an ancient Buddhist temple in Tissamaharama. We didn’t visit this one, but we did visit the Tissamaharama Dagoba. The dagoba is one of the largest stupas in Sri Lanka.
Fun Fact: There is a small museum next to the Tissamaharama Dagoba where you can find one of the first toilets and shower heads in the world!
5) Salt Mines
When you’re driving to Yala National Park, you’ll end up passing the salt mines of Tissamaharama. Salt is cultivated from the pink salt lakes. We’ve seen a salt lake like this in Senegal and Tunisia. It was fun to see another lake like that again!
6) Stilt Fishermen
Stilt Fishing is a traditional fishing method of Sri Lanka, starting just after World War II. If you want a photo, you have to pay for it. You will see them everywhere on the south coast.
What should I pack for Sri Lanka?
Light, breathable clothing is best due to the tropical climate. When visiting temples, shoulders and knees should be covered. Make sure to bring these top 5 items on your trip to Sri Lanka:
- Snorkel set: for seeing all the fish and coral in the sea
- Camera: to take amazing photos of your trip!
- Sunscreen: don’t get sunburned when visiting Egyptian temples!
- Microfiber towel: compact towel to take everywhere with you & that dries quickly!
- Sturdy Hiking shoes: to make amazing hikes
Use my ultimate packing list to have everything in your luggage for your trip
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions Tissamaharama
🐆 What is the best time to do a safari near Tissamaharama?
The best safari months for Yala and Udawalawe are typically February to June, when vegetation is lower, and animals gather around waterholes. We visited Tissa in June.
📍How far is Tissamaharama from Yala National Park?
Tissamaharama is 25-30 minutes from Yala National Park’s Ruhuna entrance, making it a popular base for safari tours.
🕒 How long should I spend in Tissamaharama?
Many travelers spend 2-3 days: 1-2 for safaris and one for exploration. We did the pagoda in the morning and the safari in the afternoon.
🐘 Can you stay in Tissamaharama for more than the safari?
Yes, beyond safari, travelers enjoy Tissa Wewa Lake, ancient temples like Tissamaharama Raja Maha Vihara, birdwatching, and exploring nearby villages or beaches on the south coast like Mirissa.