Suggested Itinerary

Begin your day in Tissamaharama with a peaceful morning walk or bicycle ride along the banks of Tissa Wewa, the ancient reservoir that dates back to the 3rd century BC. As the sun rises, the still waters reflect the morning light, while birds, kingfishers, herons, and cormorants, skirt the surface. Locals start their day early, and you’ll likely see fishermen casting nets and villagers cycling past. 

Mid-morning, make your way to the Tissamaharama Raja Maha Vihara, a significant Buddhist temple with a striking white stupa that dominates the skyline. This sacred site is believed to have been visited by Lord Buddha himself. The peaceful grounds, incense-scented air, and rhythmic chanting provide a glimpse into Sri Lanka’s deep spiritual heritage. Don’t forget to dress respectfully, covering your shoulders and knees.

As the day warms up, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant such as Refresh or Calorian, where you can sample authentic Sri Lankan dishes like rice and curry, string hoppers, or spicy sambols. Fresh fruit juices, especially mango or wood apple, make the perfect accompaniment

In the afternoon, take it slow with a visit to Debarawewa Lake, a lesser-known gem just a few minutes from town. Surrounded by trees and reeds, it’s a great spot to relax, read, or birdwatch. Water buffaloes often wade in the shallows, and the occasional monkey may leap through the branches above.

As the sun begins to set, head back to Tissa Wewa for golden hour. The light dances on the water, and the white stupa glows softly in the background, a perfect place to reflect on the day. For an even more immersive experience, take a self guided village walk in the early evening, where you can explore paddy fields, irrigation canals, and rural life up close.

Finish your day with a delicious dinner at Red Restaurant or a local eatery of your choice. Red Restaurant serves a mix of local cuisine or delicious authentic western pizza's, pasta's and burgers if its a taste of home you are after.

Your second day in Tissamaharama begins early, very early. Around 4:30 or 5:00 AM, you’ll be picked up in a 4WD vehicle for your Yala National Park safari, one of the highlights of southern Sri Lanka. Yala is renowned for its diverse ecosystems, ranging from dry scrub and forest to wetlands and beaches, and is home to an incredible array of wildlife.

As the sun rises over the park, your safari driver guide will help you spot everything from elephants and crocodiles to colorful birds, peacocks, and even the elusive Sri Lankan leopard, Yala boasts the highest leopard density in the world. Keep your camera ready, as these creatures often appear when least expected. Most safaris last around 4–5 hours, returning you to Debarawewa by mid-to-late morning.

Back in town, enjoy a well-deserved brunch or a late breakfast. Many local restaurants serve traditional Sri Lankan breakfasts, coconut sambol, dhal curry, hoppers, or fresh tropical fruit. Afterward, take some time to rest and freshen up.

In the afternoon, consider a short drive (approx 45 minutes) to Sithulpawwa Rock Temple, located within the Yala buffer zone. This ancient monastery sits high on a rocky outcrop and offers panoramic views of the jungle and plains below. Along the path, you'll find centuries-old cave shrines, ancient inscriptions, and even faded paintings inside the rock shelters. The spiritual energy of the site, combined with its quiet, natural setting, makes it a peaceful counterpoint to the adrenaline of the morning’s safari.

On your return, stop by the Debarawewa night market if it's open (Thursdays and Sundays). Markets are a great place to immerse yourself in daily life, smell the spices, sample exotic fruits like rambutan or mangosteen, or pick up handmade items as souvenirs.

End your day with a relaxing dinner back in town. After dinner sample buffalo curd with kithul treacle, a beloved Sri Lankan dessert made from fermented milk and sweet palm syrup. It's the perfect way to wind down after a day of wildlife, history, and cultural discovery.