Matale, located in the Central Province of Sri Lanka, is a beautiful and fascinating city with a rich cultural and historical heritage. From its ancient Buddhist temples to its lush green tea plantations, Matale offers something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway or an adventure-filled holiday, Matale has something for you. Here are the top 20 places to see in Matale, Sri Lanka.
1. Aluvihare Rock Temple: This ancient Buddhist temple is one of the most important sites in Matale. Built in the 3rd century BC, this temple is home to a large collection of ancient Buddhist sculptures and paintings. The temple is also known for its beautiful architecture and peaceful atmosphere.
2. Pidurangala Rock: Pidurangala Rock is a popular tourist destination in Matale. This large rock formation is located close to the Aluvihare Rock Temple and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
3. Matale Spice Garden: This spice garden offers visitors a unique opportunity to learn about the spices and herbs used in Sri Lankan cuisine. Visitors can take a tour of the garden and learn about the various plants and their uses.
4. Matale National Park: This national park is home to a variety of wildlife, including elephants, monkeys, and leopards. The park also offers visitors the chance to explore the surrounding forests and rivers.
5. Kandalama Lake: This large lake is a popular destination for bird watching and other outdoor activities. Visitors can also take a boat ride around the lake and admire the stunning views.
6. Dambulla Cave Temple: This ancient Buddhist temple is located in the Dambulla Cave and is home to a large collection of statues and paintings. The temple is also known for its beautiful architecture and peaceful atmosphere.
7. Matale Botanical Garden: This botanical garden is home to a variety of rare plants and flowers. Visitors can take a tour of the garden and learn about the plants and their uses.
8. Matale Old Town: This old town is home to a variety of historic buildings and monuments. Visitors can explore the town’s narrow streets and admire the old buildings.
9. Sigiriya Rock Fortress: This ancient fortress is one of the most famous landmarks in Sri Lanka. Located atop a large rock, the fortress offers visitors stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
10. Habarana Lake: This large lake is a popular destination for bird watching and other outdoor activities. Visitors can also take a boat ride around the lake and admire the stunning views.
11. Knuckles Mountain Range: This mountain range is home to a variety of wildlife, including leopards, monkeys, and elephants. Visitors can explore the surrounding forests and rivers.
12. Nalanda Gedige: This ancient temple is located in the Nalanda Gedige and is home to a large collection of statues and paintings. The temple is also known for its beautiful architecture and peaceful atmosphere.
13. Mihintale: This ancient Buddhist site is home to a variety of historic monuments and buildings. Visitors can explore the site and admire the old buildings.
14. Ambuluwawa Mountain: This mountain is located close to the city of Matale and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
15. Matale Zoo: This zoo is home to a variety of animals, including elephants, tigers, and leopards. Visitors can explore the zoo and learn about the different animals.
16. Matale Royal Palace: This palace is located in the heart of Matale and is home to a variety of historic monuments and buildings. Visitors can explore the palace and admire the old buildings.
17. Matale Fort: This fort is located in the center of Matale and is home to a variety of historic monuments and buildings. Visitors can explore the fort and admire the old buildings.
18. Matale Railway Station: This railway station is located in the center of Matale and offers visitors the chance to explore the city by train.
19. Matale Waterfalls: These waterfalls are located close to the city of Matale and offer stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
20. Matale Tea Plantations: These tea plantations are located close to the city of Matale and offer visitors the chance to learn about the tea-making process. Visitors can also take a tour of the plantations and learn about the tea-making process.