Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Sights & Activities
Wewurukannala Vihara
BUDDHIST
(Wewurukannala Rd;admission Rs 100; dawn-dusk)
A 50m-high seated Buddha figure - the largest in Sri Lanka - is a highlight of this temple,
which is often thronged with worshippers. Before reaching the Buddha you pass through a
hall of horrors full of life-sized models of demons and sinners. The punishments depicted
include being dunked in boiling cauldrons, sawn in half and disembowelled.
The temple is 1.5km inland from Dikwella, towards Beliatta.
Ho-o-maniya Blowhole
LANDMARK
(admission Rs 250; dawn to dusk)
Do you feel lucky? The Ho-o-maniya blowhole is sometimes spectacular and other times a
fizzle. During the southwest monsoon (June is the best time), high seas can force water
23m up through a natural chimney in the rocks and then up to 18m in the air. At other
times the blowhole will leave you limp. From the parking area, its a 300m up-and-down
walk past numerous vendors.
Driving, look for the 1km-long access road about 6km northeast of Dikwella, just west
of the 186km marker.
Sleeping & Eating
This low-key stretch of coast features some beautiful beaches in perfect little coves off the
main road.
Dickwella Beach Hotel
HOTEL
( 225 5522;
www.dickwellabeach.lk
;
112 Mahawela Rd;r fan/air-con from US$30/60; )
This family-run beachfront hotel is a real find. Rooms have a certain vintage charm but are
basic. However, everything is clean and well-run. You'll enjoy the ocean views through the
cross-hatched coconut palms, while the only real noise here is the sea itself. Look for the
turn off the main road about 1km east of Dikwella.
