During my recent visit to Tissamaharama, I explored the Yatala Vehera Dagoba, one of Sri Lanka's most fascinating ancient stupas. As I approached the stupa, the sense of history that enveloped the entire site was almost tangible. I had read that it was believed to have been built in the 3rd century BC by King Mahanaga, a figure whose story is filled with drama, tragedy, and resilience. The air was thick with quiet reverence. I couldn’t help but pause and imagine the ancient times when monks, kings, and devotees would have gathered here. The atmosphere made me feel like I…

Nestled in the heart of southern Sri Lanka, just a short drive from Tissamaharama, Weerawila Bird Sanctuary is a hidden paradise for bird lovers and nature enthusiasts alike. During my visit, I was amazed by the number of migratory and resident birds calling this sanctuary home. With its two main reservoirs, Weerawila and Tissa, this sanctuary provides the perfect habitat for some of the most spectacular bird species I have ever seen. A Birdwatcher’s Paradise As I stepped into the sanctuary, I was immediately greeted by the serene beauty of its wetlands and open landscapes. Armed with my binoculars and camera, I was…

The journey to Sandagiri Stupa in Tissamaharama is like stepping into a time capsule that reveals the architectural and cultural brilliance of Sri Lanka's ancient past. Built on a massive 200-by-200-foot platform with a brick-tiled floor, the stupa radiates a sense of serenity and grandeur. Although time has eroded much of its original form, the remaining half of the stupa still commands awe with its 340-foot circumference and 60-foot height. Walking around the stupa, I was captivated by the meticulously crafted flower altars at the cardinal points and a perfectly polished stone carving on the northern side—an exquisite example of…