Hidden gems in Yala National Park

Hidden Ruins and Reservoirs

Explore the historical landscape of eastern Sri Lanka through its ancient Buddhist sites and traditional irrigation systems. This collection features the Panama Rajamaha Vihara and Veherakema ruins, which showcase stone pillars and rock-cut cisterns from the Digamadulla era. Complementing these are the Radella Tank and Thummulla Wewa, significant examples of hydraulic engineering designed to support local agriculture and sustain wildlife in the dry zone.

Panama Rajamaha Vihara Buddhist Ruins

Ancient monastic complex featuring stone pillars, stupa foundations, and inscriptions from the early historical period of the Digamadulla kingdom.

Veherakema Buddhist Ruins

Archaeological site containing a ruined stupa on a rock outcrop and several ancient rock-cut water cisterns known as kema.

Thummulla Wewa

Traditional man-made irrigation pond used for local agriculture and as a water source for wildlife in the surrounding dry zone.

Radella Tank

Large agricultural reservoir and vital water source for wild elephants, situated near the Lahugala Kitulana National Park boundary.

Tank Bund

Elevated earthen embankment designed to retain water within a traditional irrigation reservoir for seasonal rice cultivation.

Other Lists

Yala Essentials Sacred Temples & Monasteries Coastal Retreats