
Thanamalwila

Safari

Bird Watching

Boat Rides
Location Highlights
- Experience the dry zone, dry deciduous forests of Sri Lanka.
- Venture into Lunugamvehera National Park for a more tranquil safari experience
- Sunset boat tour on Ranawaranawa Lake
- Village walks exploring villages and adjoining forests and “chena” farms

Thanamalwila, nestled in Sri Lanka’s southeastern region, is famed for its proximity to Udawalawe and Lunugamvehera National Parks, offering a prime gateway to explore the country’s dry zone forests. Unlike the bustling Yala National Park, Thanamalwila promises a quieter and more serene safari experience, thanks to fewer visitors.
Enduring a hot and arid climate year-round, the town boasts dry deciduous forests thriving with thorny acacias and palmyra palms. This area acts as a crucial elephant corridor linking Udawalawe and Yala National Parks, facilitating the movement of these majestic creatures.
Alongside elephants and leopards, the region hosts a diverse array of wildlife, including deer, Sloth bear, Grey langur, and Golden jackals. Additionally, the surrounding lake ecosystems harbor numerous bird species, providing ample opportunities for wildlife enthusiasts to observe and appreciate the area’s rich biodiversity.
It’s also an ideal destination to immerse yourself in the rural village life typical of the dry zone villages in Sri Lanka. Here, the rhythm of life revolves around farming and livestock rearing, with locals deeply entrenched in age-old practices. One such tradition is chena farming, a time-honored slash-and-burn technique dating back over 500 years.
Our Favorite Accommodation in Thanamalwila
Tranquil Wild
Rating (tripadvisor.com)
5/5
Rating (booking.com)
9.1
TranquilWild offers an immersive experience into the serene beauty of Sri Lanka’s dry zone forests and the simplicity of rural village life. Located amidst the picturesque landscape near Ranawaranawa Lake, this hidden gem is surrounded by ancient villages, chena farms, and patches of dry deciduous forests that seamlessly blend into nearby national parks. Away from the hustle and bustle of mainstream tourism, TranquilWild provides a sanctuary for those seeking solace and a deeper connection with nature.
Throughout the day, you’ll encounter peacocks and herons gracefully wandering, while shy monkeys playfully leap between the large trees of the garden, adding to the tranquil ambiance. The hotel is equipped with comfortable rooms, a pool, and very friendly staff, ensuring a relaxing and enjoyable stay amidst the natural beauty of TranquilWild.