Sembuwatta Lake is a serene and picturesque destination located in Elkaduwa, Matale District, Sri Lanka. Nestled amidst lush tea estates and the verdant Campbell's Lane Forest Reserve, this man-made lake offers a refreshing escape into nature, blending natural beauty with adventure. Situated at an altitude of 1,140 meters (3,740 feet) above sea level, Sembuwatta Lake's cool, misty environment, surrounded by towering pine trees and tea-covered slopes, creates a peaceful atmosphere ideal for relaxation and exploration.
Sembuwatta Lake is a serene and picturesque destination located in Elkaduwa, Matale District, Sri Lanka. Nestled amidst lush tea estates and the verdant Campbell's Lane Forest Reserve, this man-made lake offers a refreshing escape into nature, blending natural beauty with adventure. Situated at an altitude of 1,140 meters (3,740 feet) above sea level, Sembuwatta Lake's cool, misty environment, surrounded by towering pine trees and tea-covered slopes, creates a peaceful atmosphere ideal for relaxation and exploration.
Elkaduwa, Matale District, Central Province, Sri Lanka; adjacent to the Campbell’s Lane Forest Reserve.
Typically open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
The dry season, from December to March, offers pleasant weather suitable for outdoor activities.
Local Rs.300.00
Foreigners Child: 1000.00 – Adult:1500.00
A Tranquil Retreat in Sri Lanka’s Central Highlands
Sembuwatta Lake is a serene and picturesque destination located in Elkaduwa, Matale District, Sri Lanka. Nestled amidst lush tea estates and the verdant Campbell’s Lane Forest Reserve, this man-made lake offers a refreshing escape into nature, blending natural beauty with adventure. Situated at an altitude of 1,140 meters (3,740 feet) above sea level, Sembuwatta Lake’s cool, misty environment, surrounded by towering pine trees and tea-covered slopes, creates a peaceful atmosphere ideal for relaxation and exploration.
The lake’s history is intertwined with the colonial era. The British initially used the land as a polo ground, and later, a tea factory was built nearby in 1949. The lake was created to generate electricity for the factory, though the factory is no longer operational. However, the surrounding area still benefits from the electricity provided by the lake.
The name “Sembuwatta” is derived from local folklore. It is said that a factory worker discovered a brass pot (“Sembuwa”) in a nearby spring, which he took with him when fleeing the country. His son later built a kovil (temple) at the spring’s source, and the area was named “Sembuwatta,” meaning “Brass Pot Estate.” Ruins of the kovil are still visible today.
In 2005, the area was transformed into a popular tourist attraction under the guidance of Radley Dissage, the former superintendent of Elkaduwa Plantations. His efforts led to the construction of summer huts, a guesthouse, and a swimming pool, making the lake a must-visit location for travelers. The lake is now managed by Elkaduwa Plantations.
Sembuwatta Lake offers a wide range of activities, making it an ideal destination for both relaxation and adventure. Visitors can enjoy zip-lining, motorboat rides, canoeing, and nature treks around the area. The lake’s depth (30-40 feet) makes swimming in the lake itself unsafe, but a separate swimming pool fed by natural spring water is available for visitors. The peaceful surroundings also make it a great spot for bird-watching and photography, attracting nature enthusiasts and couples seeking a romantic getaway.
For families, there are designated play areas for children, and archery is a fun activity to try. Sembuwatta Lake has become a popular location for honeymooners and wedding photo shoots due to its stunning landscape and tranquil ambiance.
Sembuwatta Lake is located about 32 kilometers (2 hours) from Kandy, making it a convenient day trip from the city. The route to the lake is scenic, passing through tea estates and offering stunning views of the Knuckles Range. The road to the lake is narrow and winding, especially beyond the Elkaduwa Tea Factory, so travelers are advised to use smaller vehicles. Larger vehicles, such as buses, must park at a nearby point, and visitors will need to continue their journey by tuk-tuk.
Sembuwatta Lake, with its stunning scenery and array of activities, is a hidden gem in Sri Lanka’s Central Province. Whether you seek adventure, relaxation, or simply want to immerse yourself in nature, the lake offers something for everyone.
